In a message dated 10/28/01 1:52:01 PM Eastern Standard Time,
uniquemachine@air1.net writes:
<< What kind of power steering is put on the M35A3?
Jon
>>
The DoD decided on using the Air-O-Matic power assist system. It utilizes the
compressed air that is already on the truck, thereby not wasting any more HP
to run a hydraulic pump. The system supplies about 1500 pounds of thrust to
the tie rod (15 square inches of ram area X 100 PSI) , thereby reducing by
half the forces necessary to turn the steering wheel. The two biggest
advantages are that with the engine off, and with air pumped up, the truck
can still be steered, and in the event that air is lost, the steering reverts
to manual, and does not "lock up" the way a hydraulic system does.
Winch-equipped M35-A3's use a cobbled-together hydraulic system. The pump is
driven off the engine. The winches are from several different sources. Many
are of European manufacture. Even though a hydraulic system is installed,
air-assist steering was specified due to its low cost, ease of installation
and maintenance in the field, and the advantages mentioned above.
National Guard units use them on their M35-A2's.
Oh, by the way, did I mention that I am a distributor? (Shameless plug)
Arthur P. Bloom, Pres. www.M35products.com
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Fri Dec 07 2001 - 00:36:29 PST