Personnel

Vehicles on parade
By Maj Mike Tyquin
and WO2 David Russell

Edition 1167, May 31, 2007
 
FIRST parade service is not the first Anzac ceremonial function in World War I, but actions taken by drivers at the beginning of their working day to ensure their vehicles are safe, mechanically sound and functioning correctly.

There are many types of first parades: for tanks, APCs, Bushmasters etc. However, for this article let’s look at how it works for B-type vehicles.

First, the driver checks the vehicle’s fittings. These include all cab and body fittings, the spare wheel and canopy, the load (if any), the CES, tail gate and fire extinguisher.

Then come the wheels and tyres, which should be checked for punctures, cuts, weak spots, uneven wear and correct pressure. Finally, all wheel nuts should be checked, but beware of overtightening.

Then comes the POL check, which consists of confirming the level of engine oil, brake fluid and transmission fluid (if applicable) and fuel.

The first paperwork begins with a speedometer check against the last entry on the AD049 (Vehicle Authorisation and Task Form), aka a work ticket.

Next we check the donk, or engine. Start it and check all dash gauges, listen for air leaks, test the headlights and indicators, windscreen wipers and washers and try the horn.

Using your clean rag, make sure the windscreen, mirrors and windows are sparkling.

Check the battery for obvious leaks and that it has sufficient fluid.

At last, the big moment arrives when you move off. This is the ideal time to check brakes and steering, rather than wait before you career down a slope with no hope of stopping.

For those petrol heads among you with a real lust for knowledge, there are actually three other vehicle parades – performed at the halt, the last parade and once a fortnight.