TM 5-5420-278-10
0043 00
0043 00-5
CONVENTIONAL RAFTING PROCEDURE (Contd)
4. For single vehicle loads, vehicles should be loaded on the centerline of the
roadway and centered between the ramps. For multiple vehicle loads, heavier
vehicles should be placed towards the center of the raft, with lighter vehicles
towards the ramps. Vehicles with an MLC of less than 20 may be loaded adjacently
on either side of the raft centerline but should be of the same general type and
MLC. Total added MLC for multiple vehicle loads shall not exceed the multiple
vehicle rating. Vehicle loads shall not be on or overhang onto ramps.
5. Ratings apply only with bottom of ramp ends raised 12 in. (30 cm) before raft
is under way.
6. For conventional rafting when additional capacity is needed, the load may be
shifted eccentrically in the downstream direction to the edge of the 14 ft, 9 in. (4.5
m) wide single-lane roadway. This will increase the load capacity by MLC 10 for
tracked or wheeled loads. Trailing edge roadway freeboard may be negative (water
on the roadway) when this is done. Keep loads centered for at least the first
crossing at any given crossing site as specific crossing conditions will be unknown.
7. For conventional rafting, when buoyancy is compromised, such as through
ballistic or natural damage, lowering of the ramps until the tips are touching the
water may aid in increasing overall raft buoyancy. This will not work in all
situations and will be less effective for the larger raft sizes. This method should be
used only as a last resort when offloading the raft load is not immediately feasible
and loss of equipment is otherwise likely.
8. The number of Mk I/II BEBs required for each raft size and current speed is
denoted by the number after the rating. Refer to figure 1, Conventional Rafting
Procedures, to determine where and how boats are attached to conventional rafts.
WARNING
Never intermix IFB bays with IRB bays when building
rafts. Failure to comply may result in damage to
equipment or possible injury or death to personnel.
9. Do not intermix IFB bays with IRB bays when building rafts.
Table 1. Conventional Rafting Ratings Table (Contd).
