TM 5-3800-205-10-2
EXTERNAL AIR TRANSPORT BY CH-47 HELICOPTER
INTRODUCTION
1.
This work package describes how to prepare the water distributor for external air transport by CH-47 helicopter, and
how to return machine to operational configuration after external air transport.
2.
Due to weight restrictions, the tractor and water distributor must be sectionalized (separated) to accomplish external air
transport. Selected components are also removed from the tractor to further reduce weight of the tractor. Once separated,
tractor and water distributor are each separately rigged with sling legs and lifted by CH-47 helicopter.
3.
The level of disassembly required will depend on the CH-47 mission flight profile. Prior to sectionalization, this mission
flight profile must be determined. This will ensure machine is disassembled only to the degree required to meet weight
requirements.
4.
Amount of fuel left in machine's fuel tank must comply with guidance from Military Traffic Management Command
(MTMC).
5.
Water distributor tank must be empty.
6.
Assistance from two Unit Maintenance mechanics is required to prepare the machine for external air transport.
WARNING
If operating machine without ROPS/FOPS, drive with extreme caution, at low idle, and in 1st gear or reverse
ONLY. Machine has no rollover/falling object protection without ROPS/FOPS. Failure to follow this warn-
ing may cause injury or death to personnel or damage to equipment.
7.
As part of this procedure, the ROPS/FOPS is removed from the tractor. Operation of the machine after assembly at the
work site may be required without the ROPS/FOPS, until the ROPS/FOPS is transported to the work site and reinstalled.
WARNING
Use extreme caution when handling heavy parts. Provide adequate support and use assistance during proce-
dure. Ensure any lifting device used is in good condition and of suitable lift capacity. Keep clear of heavy
parts supported only by lifting device. Failure to follow this warning may result in death or injury to person-
nel.
8.
Many components that must be removed and installed during this procedure are very heavy. Use assistance, caution, and
follow safe work practices when handling them.
WARNING
Hitch and steering movement can reduce clearances suddenly and cause personnel injury. Always stop
engine BEFORE working in area of hitch link.
9.
Throughout procedure, be aware of potential hazards when working around hitch. Do NOT work in area of hitch link
unless engine is shut down.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
1.
Tools and equipment required for sectionalization are stored in an ISU-60 shipping and storage container (Item 1, Table
1, WP 0023 00). BII tools (Table 2, WP 0023 00) must also be used.
2.
Tools required to assemble machine after external air transport must be carried in the water distributor's on-board BII
toolbox. This is because there may be a delay in the delivery of the container to the assembly site. After transport and
assembly of machine, stow tools and equipment in container.
