M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier

OPER
AT O
MA
R
S
M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier
NUA
Digitally reproduced from original Army documents
Entering service with the US Army in 1960 the M113
tracked armoured personnel carrier has proved to be
one of the most practical and successful vehicles. It
has been used by over 50 countries in many theatres
of operations including Vietnam, Iraq and Kosovo.
Over 80,000 vehicles, in many variants, have been
produced since it was first introduced.
The M113 was constructed of aluminium giving
limited armour protection but which enabled the
vehicle to be air portable and offering a limited
amphibious capability. The armour has been
upgraded several times during the M113’s
production life. Access to the passenger
compartment was given by a large ramp style door.
The M113 was originally powered by a Detroit
diesel engine coupled to a 3 speed automatic
gearbox and steering differential unit. It used a
torsion bar suspension and achieved good mobility
on mixed terrains. with a maximum speed capability
of 40+mph.
The basic variant of the M113 carried a crew of 2
(commander and driver) with a battle section of 11
passengers. The main armament was a .50 inch
Browning machine gun.
Many variants were produced and the Operator’s
manual covers the M113 APC, M577 Command
post, M106 4.2inch mortar carrier, M125 81mm
mortar carrier and M132 flame thrower carrier.
The Operator’s Manual is in English and comprises 349 pages giving user operating, maintenance and
service details. There is a section covering troubleshooting and the manual is fully illustrated at every
level with stowage guides.
Contents
The manual is divided into several sections. A
full description with data covers the basic
carrier, its operation under normal and unusual
conditions, and general maintenance. Thereafter
supplementary chapters give the changes
required for the Command Post, Mortar and
Flame Thrower carriers. Appendices cover the
basic tools and equipment carried by each
vehicle together with stowage guides.
The subjects covered are:
1. Controls and Instruments
2. Driving instructions
3. Amphibious Operation
4. Engine
5. Transmission
6. Differential
7. Transfer Gearcase
8. Tracks and Suspension
9. Electrical System
10. Bilge Pumps
11. Optional Special Kits
12. Gas Particulate Unit
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