Figure 4-5. Adjusting installed bottom plates

TM 5-5430-209-12

LAST BOTTOM PLATE

BOARDS

BOLTS

FIRST INTERMEDIATE BOTTOM PLATE

BOLT CHANNEL

DRIFT PIN

FIRST BOTTOM PLATE

Figure 4-5. Adjusting installed bottom plates.

4-5. Bolt Replacement Plug

(f) Place several pieces of bolt channel

(5) along the length of last plate (1) with their outer ends

If threads are stripped on one or more bolts, drive out

touching the right edge of first intermediate plate (4).

bolt and use a bolt replacement plug as instructed in

(g) Insert drift pins (6) through channels

paragraph 3-4.

(5) and last plate (1), with pins bearing against the left

4-6. Testing Seams for Leakage

edge of first plate (7). This will produce sufficient

leverage to bring the right lap seam of last plate (1) in

Refer to paragraph 3-5 and test tank bottom for leaks

alinement with bolts in left lap seam of first plate (7).

utilizing the vacuum seam tester incorporated in the

(h) With last plate (1) in final position,

storage tank erection outfit.

NOTE

the right lap seam will drop over bolts in left lap seam of

first plate (7) upon removal of boards (2) and channels

Do not move off a tested area with

(5). Install steel washers and nuts, as described in a (2)

leaks until all points of leakage have

above.

been stopped.

NOTE

4-7. Sealing Seams

All bolts, except chime bolts, must have

WARNING

a steel washer under the nut.

If tank is to be used for water

4-4. Tightening Tank Bottom

storage, do not apply sealing

Start at small end of plates and work toward large end,

compound to tank bottom.

tightening nuts uniformly and carefully; avoid crushing

Sweep tank bottom clean after testing the seams. With

gaskets. A maximum of 40 to 50 foot-pounds of torque

bottom dry, apply sealing compound to all bolts and

should be used.

seams.

4-5