m113 a p ca - afv handbooks m113 preview.pdf · m113 a p ca ... entering service with the us army...

M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier

Digitally reproduced from original Army documents

OPERATORS MANUAL

Entering service with the US Army in 1960 the M113tracked armoured personnel carrier has proved to beone of the most practical and successful vehicles. Ithas been used by over 50 countries in many theatresof operations including Vietnam, Iraq and Kosovo.Over 80,000 vehicles, in many variants, have beenproduced since it was first introduced.

The M113 was constructed of aluminium givinglimited armour protection but which enabled thevehicle to be air portable and offering a limitedamphibious capability. The armour has beenupgraded several times during the M113’sproduction life. Access to the passengercompartment was given by a large ramp style door.

The M113 was originally powered by a Detroitdiesel engine coupled to a 3 speed automaticgearbox and steering differential unit. It used atorsion bar suspension and achieved good mobilityon mixed terrains. with a maximum speed capabilityof 40+mph.

The basic variant of the M113 carried a crew of 2(commander and driver) with a battle section of 11passengers. The main armament was a .50 inchBrowning machine gun.

Many variants were produced and the Operator’smanual covers the M113 APC, M577 Commandpost, M106 4.2inch mortar carrier, M125 81mmmortar carrier and M132 flame thrower carrier.

ContentsThe manual is divided into several sections. Afull description with data covers the basiccarrier, its operation under normal and unusualconditions, and general maintenance. Thereaftersupplementary chapters give the changesrequired for the Command Post, Mortar andFlame Thrower carriers. Appendices cover thebasic tools and equipment carried by eachvehicle together with stowage guides.

The subjects covered are:1. Controls and Instruments2. Driving instructions3. Amphibious Operation4. Engine5. Transmission6. Differential7. Transfer Gearcase8. Tracks and Suspension9. Electrical System10. Bilge Pumps11. Optional Special Kits12. Gas Particulate Unit

The Operator’s Manual is in English and comprises 349 pages giving user operating, maintenance andservice details. There is a section covering troubleshooting and the manual is fully illustrated at everylevel with stowage guides.