TM 5-5420-203-14
CHAPTER 5
ADMINISTRATIVE STORAGE OR SHIPMENT
5-1. ADMINISTRATIVE STORAGE. Administrative storage has two modes. One mode is
standby. This means the bridge is ready to use immediately. The other is long term storage such as War
Reserves. War Reserves are usually stored at a depot and are maintained in an area out of the elements
with periodic checks to determine the condition. The bridge can be in two different standby modes. One is
mounted on a launcher and the other is stored flat by itself. Refer to TM 740-90-1 for administrative
storage procedures.
a. Bridge in Standby Mode Mounted on a Launcher. When in this mode, a PMCS shall be
performed on a regularly scheduled basis. In addition, the scheduled lube order shall be done. The bridge
shall be exercise a minimum of one time each month. This exercise consists of a series of three launchings
and retrievals. After the last retrieval, check the connecting points, hydraulic hoses, and connectors for
leaks or damage. Report any discrepancies found on DA Form 2404, Equipment Inspection and
Maintenance Worksheet. Fill in all necessary blanks and explain the problem fully.
b. Bridge in Standby Mode Without Launcher. To place the bridge in a standby mode
without the launcher, perform a PMCS on the bridge. Perform the normally scheduled lube order. Coat all
surfaces of pins, cables, etc., with a light film of petroleum to retard corrosion. Store the bridge in a
launched position, laying flat on a firm surface such as the Unit's compound. If the bridge is to be stored
for a period in excess of 30 days, refer to FIGURE 5-1 and place the supports under the hydraulic cylinder
as shown. This will remove some of the weight placed on the hydraulic seal by the extended cylinder arm.
Place two light timbers under the bottom center hinge points in the middle of the bridge if the bridge is to
be stored on a concrete surface as shown in FIGURE 5-1. This will reduce the wear on these two critical
areas. Ensure all pins, pin retainers, etc., necessary for the operation of the bridge is maintained with the
bridge or stored in an appropriate place. Periodic checks of the bridge and the hardware should be
performed to ensure no pilferable items have been removed. The bridge can stay in a standby mode almost
indefinitely. The bridge and its hydraulics shall be exercised a minimum of one time each month. This
exercise shall consist of a series of three retrievals and launchings. At the completion of the second launch
and prior to the final extension of the bridge, inspect the bridge for obvious faults as addressed in PMCS.
Report any discrepancies found on DA Form 2404, Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Worksheet.
Fill in all necessary blanks and explain the problem fully. After the repairs, if any, are completed, the
bridge is once again in a standby mode.
5-1
