TM 9-2350-261-34
CLEANING
a. GENERAL. Cleaning is very important. All
maintenance. Dirt or foreign matter can cause
parts must be cleaned well and kept clean during
malfunctions and equipment failure. General cleaning
procedures are detailed in steps b thru n. Special cleaning procedures are covered in the task relating to the
specific part.
b. CLEAN EVERY PART. Clean every part well after disassembly and before assembly or installation. Clean
parts such as housings, covers, and dipsticks before disassembly. Avoid getting dirt and foreign matter in a
system.
c. HANDLE WITH CARE. Use care when handling parts during cleaning and maintenance. Nicks,
scratches, dents, and burrs can prevent proper assembly or cause malfunctions after assembly.
d. AVOID ABRASIVES. Except where specially called for in a task, donut use abrasives, files, wire brushes,
or sharp tools. On some surfaces, finish is important to the operation of close-fitting parts.
WARNING
Dry cleaning solvent P–D-680 is toxic and flammable. Always use in an open area
with good air flow, away from sparks, heat, or flames. Wear goggles and gloves. Do
not breathe vapors. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothes. If you get dizzy
while using solvent, breathe fresh air and get medical help. If solvent gets on
hands, wash them. If solvent gets in eyes, flush eyes with fresh water and get
medical help immediately. Keep fire extinguisher nearby.
e. REMOVAL AGENTS. Remove gum or old grease deposits by soaking parts in cleaning solvent
(Item 18, App C). Scrub with a brush. Use crocus cloth (Item 17, App C) to remove minor surface defects.
WARNING
Air pressure in excess of 30 psi (207 kPa) can injure personnel. Do not direct
pressurized air at yourself or others. Always wear goggles.
CAUTION
Lye or caustic mixtures will damage metal
surfaces. Do not use lye or caustic mixtures
to clean metal surfaces.
f. STEAM CLEANING. If steam cleaning is used, dry clean parts at once with compressed air. Apply a thin
film of clean oil to surfaces that are not painted to prevent rusting. Never use lye or caustic mixtures that
will corrode or etch metal surfaces.
g. LUBRICATION OF NEW BEARINGS. See TM 9–214 for cleaning and lubrication procedures. Bearings
that have been in service should also be lubricated.
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