Currently the US Army utilizes the AVUM #2 Shop Set consisting of 1978 items housed in three large S-280 shelters to assist in unscheduled and Phase maintenance to support 30 aircraft. Due to the high op-tempo units are experiencing in theaters world wide and performing split based operations, a smaller portable system capable of movement in the hangars is needed. The PTMC addresses this requirment with flight lines via a drop down tow bar and fork lift pockets for placement directly next to the aircraft requiring maintenance. This eliminates the need to go the tool room to sign out each tool. The PTMC consists of 799 items but is not limited to the following; ¼” drive sockets, assorted crowsfeet, torque adapters, sheet metal tools, drills, files, snips, pliers, torque wrenches, spring scales, battery operated vacuums, a multi meter, a soldering iron,
larger ¾” drive sockets, full assortment of stubby and spline drive ratcheting wrenches, screwdrivers and remote area lighting. Designed by the 3rd Infantry Division for deployment to Iraq to aid the Phase Team Leader and his soldiers performing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on rotary wing aircraft. The Phase Team Maintenance Tool Cart (PTMC) reduces downtime by assigning the entire kit to the leader which in turn has his subordinates work directly from this kit. The PTMC allows for the removal and installation of aircraft subsystem assemblies such as engines, rotors, gearboxes, transmissions, mechanical flight controls and their components, services and lubrications on aircraft and subsystems, aircraft inspections and maintenance checks, scheduled inspections and assists in performing special inspections, limited maintenance operational checks and assists in diagnosing and troubleshooting aircraft subsystems using special tools and equipment.