TM 5-2420-232-10
0006
FORDING PROCEDURES CONTINUED
Fording
0006
1.
Shift the transmission into 1st gear (WP 0004).
CAUTION
Inhibit the engine cooling fan drive before fording. Failure to comply could result in equipment
damage.
2.
Inhibit the engine cooling fan drive before attempting to ford the machine (WP 0004).
3.
Increase the engine speed to above 1,000 rpm to reduce the risk of stalling. Keep the engine speed above 1,000 rpm.
NOTE
Be prepared during wading operations to operate the front bucket to improve the entry and
departure angles.
4.
Enter the water slowly to minimize waves and backwash. Drive at 3 to 4 mph (5 to 6 kph) to prevent making a "bow
wave."
CAUTION
Do not attempt to restart an engine that has stalled due to being completely submerged. Serious
engine damage could be caused if water has entered the engine cylinders.
5.
If you completely submerge the machine to a point where water enters the engine compartment, keep the engine speed up
to prevent water from entering the engine. Move the machine out of the water immediately and allow the water to drain
from the engine compartment. If the engine stalls while completely submerged, notify Field Maintenance.
If it is necessary to stop the machine while fording, use the brakes (WP 0004) to stop the machine and shift the transmis-
6.
sion (WP 0004) into Neutral. Keep the engine speed above 1,000 rpm. To move off again, select 1st gear and move for-
ward slowly at 3 to 4 mph (5 to 6 kph). Keep the engine speed above 1,000 rpm.
After Fording
0006
1.
Enable the engine cooling fan drive (WP 0004).
WARNING
Check the brakes for proper operation. Failure to do so could result in injury or death to personnel.
2.
Drive the machine for a short distance in 1st gear while repeatedly applying the foot brake (WP 0004). This will generate
heat in the brake components to help dry them out.
3.
Run the engine for a few minutes to help evaporate and blow out any water that may have entered the engine bay.
4.
Check the engine and transmission oil for the presence of water (WP 0017). If water is present, the oil color will be lighter
or water will be seen. If the oil color is changed or if water is present, notify Field Maintenance to drain and refill with the
correct oil (WP 0017).
5.
Check and clean the cooling pack radiators of any debris that may be blocking the air flow (WP 0019).
6.
Notify Field Maintenance to wash and clean the machine, especially if the machine was forded in salt water. Do not allow
any water to enter the engine exhaust or air intakes.
7.
Perform after fording maintenance.
Change 1
0006-16
