Lesson 2/Learning Event 2
There are three primary reasons for commanders to use PM indicators:
The commander should inspect.
The most critical single factor in an
effective maintenance program is the personal inspection of equipment by the
commander. There is a common tendency to consider the physical inspection
of equipment as a function reserved for the equipment specialist and beyond
the capability or activity of the commander. This is a misleading notion of
the command function and could undermine an otherwise enthusiastic
The commander is not a specialist.
A commander's inspection must be
limited in scope for practical reasons. The relative complexity of modern
equipment, the extensive technical knowledge required of specialists, and
the normal length of assignments in command positions make it impractical
for most commanders to know highly technical details or to inspect for them.
The PM indicators are a logical compromise solution to this problem.
Time is a limiting factor. Even if the commander were a
the attention he must devote to other command responsibilities
time available for thorough inspections of equipment.
use of PM
indicators to concentrate on significant, readily accessible
points makes the most efficient use of the commander's time.
EQUIPMENT PM INDICATORS
Equipment PM indicators are in most cases detailed and specific.
enable the commander to know precisely what to look for.
which may have a general application to many types or categories of
equipment. The commander or inspector should be alert for evidence of the
Proper tolerances, clearances, and travel are required
in many areas.
Evidence of chafing, binding, cracking, rips, or split
seams, and erratic operation indicates improper adjustment.
adjustment may frequently be quite evident in the amount of play in belts,
pulleys, levers, or gears, and the amount of lateral movement which may be
felt in bearing adjustment.