Launch Beam Lifter and Bridge Module Lifter

TM 5-5420-279-23

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Launch Beam Lifter and Bridge Module Lifter

The lifting beams are dedicated to their particular function (either launch beam or bridge

module transfer) and are not interchangeable. The smaller launch beam lifter, used for the launch

beam modules, is of fixed geometry and is suspended from the crane hook via a 6 ft 6 in (2 m)

extension sling during operation.

The larger bridge module lifter, used for the bridging modules, also attaches to the crane

hook via a 6 ft 6 in (2 m) extension sling and has a two-position configuration. Two arms at each

end of a central beam are held in one of two lifting positions by quick-release shoot bolts. The

positions of the arms is dependent on use for bridge module deployment or retrieval.

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Tail Lift

When deployed, the tail lift provides a work platform for crew members designated as

module pinners during bridging operations. Platform position can be adjusted to allow pinners of

varying height comfortable, safe access to bridging modules for pin insertion and shoot bolt

operation. It comprises a foldout framework, which accommodates folding walkway sections. The

lift is attached to mounting brackets on the vehicle chassis by swing arms, which are connected

to the platform via lifting arms. It is deployed using lift and swing hydraulic cylinders together with

their associated controls. The tail lift platform is deployed to a horizontal position, using the tilt

hydraulic cylinders, regardless of the slope of the bridge site approach.

When the tail lift is initially deployed and lowered from its stowed position, access is

afforded to the far bank support. After removal of the restraining ratchet straps from the far bank

support, the tail lift is raised to take the weight of the far bank support until it has been unlocked,

deployed and re-locked.

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Tail Lift Framework

The framework is located at the rear of the vehicle and deployed from its stowed position to

ground level when the vehicle is aligned on the bridge centerline at the start of operations.

The deployed framework unfolds and extends to form a platform 19 ft 4 in (5.9 m) wide

(across the rear of the vehicle) and 2 ft 7 in (0.8 m) in length. Safety handrails 3 ft 6 in (1.07 m)

high are inserted around the perimeter of the platform but leave minimum clearance gaps of 6 in

(0.15 m) to allow passage of bridging modules over and through the platform during operations.

Toe boards 3 in (0.075 m) high are attached to the hand rail sections to provide additional

safety.

The framework provides mounting for vehicle rear and reversing light clusters.

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Hydraulic Cylinders and Controls

Hydraulic swing, lift and tilt cylinders are operated remotely from the tail lift handset.

Movement of the hydraulic cylinders deploys the tail lift from the rear of the vehicle and initially

position it at ground level. Once the launch frame and A-Frame are positioned, `tail lift raise' is

selected on the tail lift handset controls and the hydraulic cylinders move the platform upwards, to

position it at the most convenient level for the height of the crew members. In special

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