Choices for the CHQD MWO.

MWO 3-4240-346-20-3 replaces all the old CHQDs (coupling half, quick disconnect) on M40/M42-series masks because some of the CHQDs may leak. Leaks let chemical agent in the mask.

To see if your masks have had the MWO applied, check for knurling stripes (or raised ridges) on the coupling. If there are three stripes, your mask is good to go. Two stripes mean you need to get a new CHQD immediately.

Your local MWO officer can help CBRN specialists get the MWO kit. The CBRN specialist can replace the CHQD if it's not glued to the external drink tube.

To replace the CHQD, grasp the external drinking tube where it joins the CHQD with one hand and with the other grasp the CHQD. Pull the CHQD off with a twisting motion. Insert the new CHQD into the external drinking tube and with a twisting motion press the drinking tube in place. Make sure the tube extends over the nipple end of the quick disconnect by 5/8 to 3/4 inch. Water can be used as an aid in inserting the CHQD into the external drinking robe.

Replace the whole facepiece. New facepieces have the new CHQD already installed. Order a small with NSN 4240-01-415-4517, medium with NSN 4240-01-415-4518, and large with NSN 4240-01-416-0430.

Schedule a visit with Joint CBRN Equipment Assessment Program (JEAP) representatives. They will teach CBRN specialists how to replace the glued-on CHQD without damaging the facepiece, plus check your unit's masks for problems.

While you wait for the MWO to be done or for a new facepiece to arrive, it's OK to continue to use a mask with the old CHQD as long as it passes the drinking system function test in Para 2-9 in TM 3-4240-346-20&P.

FOR MORE INFO, SEE TACOM MAINTENANCE ADVISORY MESSAGE 06-047, AS WELL AS MWO 3-4240-346-20-3.

YOU CAN FIND THE MAINTENANCE ADVISORY MESSAGE ON AEPS: https://aeps2.ria.army.mil/commodity/mam/tacom_wn/06/mam06-047.html