MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 motor transportation began replacing one of three recalled Humvee fuel tanks here Sept. 21.
“I’ve always been a hands-on learner, and trucks, engines, all different mechanic-type things interest me,” said Pfc. Matthew Taylor, motor transportation mechanic.
When new and improved parts for vehicles or machinery are proven more effective than their ancestor parts, a warranty claim is sent out for units to replace the warranty claimed products with newer ones.
This was the case for the MWSS-171 motor transportation section when its received an equipment repair order for three of its Humvee’s fuel tanks.
“A bad fuel tank can cause multiple problems. With debris in the fuel tank, you don’t get the fuel pressure needed for the truck to run right,” said Taylor. “(Replacing the fuel tank) will help the process of the truck actually running to the optimal proficiency.”
Taylor and Pfc. Seth Davis, motor transportation mechanic, were the two Marines assigned to update the Humvees with the new model fuel tanks.
“It usually takes around two to three people to change a tank,” said Davis. “We do the same things; we just break it up to help each other out. If it goes beyond three (people), it’s in the way, but most likely two people are the best.”
Using typical circumstances, removing and installing a fuel tank can be a time-consuming project, said Taylor.
“Depending on the mechanic and how fast they can work, it takes up to a day and a half at the most,” said Davis.
When an ERO is sent to the mechanics, the Marines can look up the technical manual on their toughbook work computer. The TM explains exactly how to repair the vehicle step by step.
The TM gives the Marines further insight on how to diagnose a vehicle’s malfunction and helps mechanics get back on track whenever confused about replacing parts for an ERO.
“Each time I do it, I notice that I find little tricks to make it go a little faster as I do it,” said Taylor.
Although a messy task, both Taylor and Davis said they enjoy replacing vehicle parts and looked forward to working with other mechanics to learn some of their tricks of the trade.
“I love it, especially working with somebody because I always learn new tips that I didn’t know before,” said Davis. “Like today, I was trying to use a socket for the bolts but I used a wrench and found out it was a lot easier.”
The old fuel tanks will be sent to hazardous material for disposal.