Hard Time

File: 082696_d50030_027.txt
Page: 027
Total Pages: 101
                         V. Maintenance

     A.   Ground Equipment.

     (1)   Equipment will be maintained in accordance with
current policy.   Most TMs have special operating and
maintenance instructions for operations in extreme conditions.
In addition TB 43-0239, "Maintenance in the Desert", has been
revised and the new version is due from the printer in November
1990.   It has many generic maintenance suggestions which will
be applicable in SWA.

     (2)   Pre-combat checklists have been developed for many of
the top weapon systems (Tanks,  Infantry Fighting Vehicles,
Personnel Carriers).   They should be used only as they were
designed, during tactical combat situations or on alerts.   They
are not intended to substitute for the preventive maintenance
checks and services (PMCS).

     (3)   In the desert, maintenance is harde~r to ~a6complish
and more important than ever to the sustainment of equipment.
Maintenance Programs need to receive more attention, emphasis,
and effort.

     B.   Aviation Equipment.

     (1)   Rotor blade erosion.  Helicopter rotor blades are
being severely affected by erosion from sand and dust.   The
UH-60 in particular is experiencing erosion problems that have
rendered main rotor blades unserviceable in as little as 25
flight hours if not treated with erosion protection.   AVSCOM
has procured two (2) rotor blade erosion kits for protection
against the harsh environmental conditions in Saudi Arabia.
The first kit is an interim kit using a polyurathane paint.   A
second preferred kit uses polyurathane tape on the leading edge
of blades.   A total of 1000 kits will be sent to the TAMP-SA
for use in application to all aircraft. Some of the kits will
be Installed on a `,pool" of blades to be used for change out in
blade sets.   The application process is not extremely
difficult, but conditions must be suitable and it is time
consuming.

     (2)   Aircraft covers.  Extreme heat, dust, and blowing
sand are causing premature failures on critical aircraft
components.   Blowing sand is rendering glass and acrylic
surfaces unserviceable.   AVSCOM has initiated a review of
possible aircraft covers for use in high temperatures with
windblown sand and dust.   An AH-64 kit, an AH-l kit, a UH-60
kit, and a climatic heat aircraft protective screen (CHAPS)
are being evaluated in SWA.   Units should take all issued
covers, and any available material or coverings that will
provide shade for conducting maintenance or protect
components from blowing sand and dust.
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