TM-9-2350-311-10 M109 Operator's Manual for M109A2, M109A3, M109A4 and M109A5 Download
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TM 9--2350--311--10 Change 6 5--65 5--7 PROPELLING CHARGE PREPARATION WARNING Under no circumstances will green bag and white bag charges be assembled together for firing. Critical malfunction could result causing personnel injury and equipment damage. a. M3 Series and M4 Series Propelling Charges M4A2 and M4A1 white bag charges can be expected to perform within design limits at charges 5 through 7. However, large dispersions may result when these charges are fired at charges 3 and 4. It is recommended that M3A1 or M3 green bag charges be used instead of white bag charges at charge 3 and 4. If green bag charges are not available, white bag charges may be used, although range dispersions may result. 1 If required, remove excess increments from charge and retighten excess straps by twisting and securing ends under straps. NOTE Use of the M2 flash reducer to reduce muzzle flash is optional, except when TB 9--1300--385 series restricts a specific propelling charge lot to use only with flash reducer. The M4A2 propelling charge has a flash reducer assembled in front of the base charge (increment number 3) at the time of manufacture and does not require use of the M2 flash reducer. 2 In preparing the M4A1 white bag charge, one M2 flash reducer should be added in front of each increment used. The charge must be untied and the proper number of M2 flash reducers inserted (i.e., one flash reducer added in front of the base charge and each increment used). The charge is then retied with two interlapping square knots. b. M119A1 Propelling Charges The M119A1 propelling charge is a one-increment, charge 8 white bag propelling charge and is shipped ready for firing. After unpacking and inspecting, the only preparation required is removal of the igniter protector cap and the pull scrap. c. M119A2 Propelling Charge The M119A2 propelling charge is a one-increment charge 7 red bag propelling charge, and is shipped ready for firing. This charge is not used in lieu of charge 7, M4 series white bag. It has almost the same muzzle velocity as the M119A1 white bag charge 8. After unpacking and inspection, the only preparation required is removal of the igniter protector cap and its separate tie strap. d. M203 and M203A1 Propelling Charge WARNING The M203 series propelling charge is for use only in M284 cannons. Use in any other configuration may cause equipment damage and possible personal injury. The M203 series propelling charge is a one-increment charge 8 propelling charge. After unpacking and inspecting, the only preparation required is removing the igniter protector cap. e. Propelling Charge, M231 or M232/M232A1 (MACS) The M231 contains four charges (two per extraction sleeve) in each metal container and the M232/M232A1 contains five charges per metal container. There is no other preparation needed after unpacking and inspecting the MACS.