Access cover saves you in the end.

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Dear Editor,

Recently, a SMART suggestion was approved that can save Uncle Sam thousands of dollars. It prevents accidental and unnecessary air spring deflation on your FMTV truck.

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The cab knob on the FMTV's hydraulic manifold control panel inflates and deflates the air springs in the cab. The only time you need to deflate the air springs is when you're preparing for air transport. If you forget to re-inflate--and operate your FMTV with deflated air springs--you could damage the air springs and other air bag components.

Units can easily prevent down time and costly repair work by installing an access cover, NSN 5340-01-531-5710, over the cab knob. It only takes a minute of your time and a hex wrench to install it.

Before installing the access cover, make sure the cab knob is preset to the inflate position by pressing and turning it to the right.

And note that this tip applies only to older FMTV trucks that don't already have this cover installed.

C.M.

FMTV Equipment Specialist

TACOM-Warren

Editor's note: Using this suggestion can also save FMTV drivers and passengers from backside injuries. Good looking out, Mr. M.