Although all branches of the US military have teams of dedicated engineers that are responsible for equipment maintenance and repairs, the oldest is the US Army Corps of Engineers. Their lineage can be traced back to the American Revolutionary War, when they were formed on June 16th, 1775, making them the oldest engineering organization in the United States.
Today, along with their counterparts in other services, the men and women that make up the corps are specialists in preventive maintenance, which allows military vehicles to function in optimal condition, whether they’re on exercise or an operation overseas.
Preventive maintenance is the proactive, systematic approach of regularly inspecting, servicing, and repairing vehicles to prevent failure, malfunctions, or breakdowns and allow them to function at optimal capacity.
This is true in both civilian and military life, with the army, in their own words, stating that preventive maintenance is:
“... to generate and regenerate combat power and preserve the capital investment of combat systems and equipment to enable training and mission accomplishment.”
Some of the vehicles required to successfully carry out military operations are huge, complex pieces of equipment with numerous components that must work in unison for them to function properly. That’s why there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to preventive maintenance.
Below are just some of the types of preventive maintenance services that they need to undergo to keep them in top condition.
Systematic inspection of components such as the engine, transmission, steering systems, and chassis can help identify issues such as wear, leaks, loose connections, or other issues that compromise the safety or performance of the vehicle.
Engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid are just some of the oils and fluids that military vehicles rely on. They are essential for maintaining proper lubrication (bearings, hinges, and linkages), cooling, and hydraulic functions.
Given that these vehicles are regularly used in extreme conditions, over time these fluids can become contaminated by things such as debris, which lessens their effectiveness. To combat this, regular fluid checks and replacements, as well as component lubrication, are required.
The fuel system is another important aspect of preventive maintenance for military vehicles. Regular inspections and maintenance of the fuel system can prevent issues such as fuel contamination, clogged filters, or leaks that can disrupt vehicle operation.
This includes routine checks of fuel filters, fuel lines, and fuel tanks for debris or damage. Fuel system maintenance also involves monitoring fuel quality and following proper fuel storage procedures to prevent degradation or contamination of the fuel supply.
Over time, oil filters, air filters, and the aforementioned fuel filters will need to be cleaned and, in some cases, replaced entirely. This maintains the overall cleanliness and effectiveness of various systems and their components, ensuring smooth operation and extending their lifespan.
Military vehicles are known for their effectiveness in harsh terrain, and with that comes severe stress on their tires. Inspection, pressure checks, and rotations to ensure even tire wear, maximize tire life, and prevent blowouts during exercises or operations.
Proper functioning of lights, communication equipment sensors, and other electrical components, such as wiring, connections, and batteries, needs to be routinely carried out to address any issues or malfunctions.
Specialized systems such as targeting systems, weapons systems, and communications systems need regular testing and calibration in order to maintain their functionality and reliability. These tests involve verifying system performance, aligning sensors, and ensuring proper operation.
Of course, all of this isn’t just to keep troops busy; a proper preventive maintenance schedule can yield numerous benefits. Below are just six of them.
Military vehicles are crucial in multiple operational areas, including combat, logistical support, and transportation. Preventive maintenance makes sure that before embarking on exercises or operations, these vehicles are in proper working order and reduces the risk of breakdown at crucial moments.
Operating in challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions is par for the course for the military and its equipment. This can cause a number of structural, electrical, and mechanical issues that compromise the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Inspections, lubrications, and necessary component replacements are carried out to ensure that these vehicles perform reliably and do not pose a risk to personnel safety.
Spotting issues in vehicles early and stopping them from developing into expensive repairs is a key part of preventive maintenance. This maximizes the value of the vehicle and reduces costs when it comes to unnecessary repairs and replacements. Given the recent reaction to the latest defense budget, this can only be a good thing.
Like all aspects of the military, the vehicles also have to operate under a strict regulatory framework of regulations and standards. This avoids any potential or legal issues that may arise from failing to meet them. Preventive maintenance also allows for the creation of documents that track maintenance activities for audits, accountability, and planning.
Humvees, APCs, and tanks all have unique skill sets that provide armor, firepower, and mobility on the battlefield. Regular checks, cleaning, and services of key components like sensors, communications systems, and weapons systems maintain them in peak condition, giving their users an edge over the enemy.
Specialized equipment is chosen to meet specific mission requirements. Vehicles tasked with electronic warfare and surveillance operations may be equipped with advanced communications systems, sensor arrays, and additional equipment. Preventive maintenance is crucial to ensure that these are correctly installed, calibrated, and maintained, improving operational ability.
Absolutely, it can! Preventive maintenance is extremely important for the functionality of both military and civilian vehicles. Although the truck that you drive to work every day might not be jam-packed full of missile systems or sensor arrays, the principle remains the same. If you want your vehicle to perform effectively and avoid any costly repairs or unexpected downtime, then preventive maintenance is key.
To book yourself in for a full preventive maintenance check-up or any other of your trucking needs, just give us a call today!
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