Section Ill. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

TM 9-2350-238-20-1

Section Ill. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

1-11. GENERAL.

a. The M578 Recovery Vehicle is a full-tracked, self-propelled recovery vehicle with a 30,000 lb

(13,620 kg) boom winch and a 60,000 lb (27,240 kg) tow winch mounted in an armored cab. The

vehicle is used to pick up or tow disabled mechanical equipment, such as a crane at repair bases;

and as a carrying platform for spare parts and maintenance personnel. The vehicle is highly mobile

and maneuverable and may be transported in a large cargo aircraft.

b. The M578 Recovery Vehicle is capable of long-range, high-speed operation on improved

roads. It can traverse rough terrain, muddy and marsh ground, snow or ice, and it can ford streams

to a depth of 42 in. (107 cm). The vehicle has: 1) a low, all-welded steel structure with a turret-

mounted cab; 2) a suspension lockout system; and 3) a spade assembly. The spade assembly

provides a stable platform to increase the lifting capabilities of the winch. The suspension lockout

system, boom, winches, cab, and spade are hydraulically powered. Power is supplied by a V-8

diesel engine and a gearsteer transmission.

1-18