TM 5-2420-232-10
0006
EXTREME COLD WEATHER OPERATION +32 TO -25F (0 TO -31C) CONTINUED
Maintenance - Continued
0006
WARNING
To avoid injury, eye protection and acid-resistant gloves must be worn when working around
batteries. Do not smoke, use open flame, make sparks, or create other ignition sources around
batteries. If a battery is giving off gases, it can explode and cause injury to personnel. Remove all
jewelry such as rings, ID tags, watches, and bracelets. If jewelry or a tool contacts a battery
terminal, a direct short will result in instant heating or electrical shock, damage to equipment, and
injury to personnel.
Sulfuric acid contained in batteries can cause serious burns. If battery corrosion or electrolyte
makes contact with skin, eyes, or clothing, take immediate action to stop the corrosive burning
effects. Failure to follow these warnings may result in injury or death to personnel.
Eyes. Flush with cold water for no less than 15 minutes and seek medical attention immediately.
Skin. Flush with cold water for no less than 15 minutes and seek medical attention immediately.
Internal. If corrosion or electrolyte is ingested, drink large amounts of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten
egg, or vegetable oil. Seek medical attention immediately.
Clothing/Equipment. Wash area with large amounts of cold water. Neutralize acid with baking soda or household ammonia.
NOTE
Frequently inspect inactive machines. Remove corrosion from exterior and apply a protective coat
of lubricating oil (Item 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17, WP 0033).
4.
Batteries.
Extreme cold causes batteries to freeze and prevents them from furnishing enough power for engine starts. FM 9-207
gives information about the effects of cold weather on batteries. Have Field Maintenance remove the batteries from the
machine and store them in a warm place whenever the machine is not used for long periods of time.
5.
Wheels and Tires.
Park the machine on planks or brush to prevent the tires from freezing to the ground. Chock the front and rear wheels if
necessary. Clean mud, snow, and ice from the wheels, tires, and suspension as soon as possible before it freezes. Refer to
FM 9-207 for the effects of cold weather on wheels and tires.
6.
Metal Parts (Not Including Hydraulic Cylinder Piston Rods).
Metal parts may become brittle and cannot take shock loads at arctic temperatures. Make frequent inspections of metal
areas. Remove corrosion from exterior metal surfaces and apply a protective coat of lubricating oil.
Change 1
0006-4
