TM 55-8115-203-23 & P
(c)
For top side rails only: If any part of the area to be repaired is within twelve inches of the corner
fitting, the insert must butt against the corner fitting.
(d)
For top end rails only: If any part of the area to be repaired is within six inches of the corner fitting,
the insert must butt against the corner fitting.
(e)
Inserts which extend across .the full profile of the top rail are considered sections rather than inserts.
See figure 3.7, example E. Follow the procedure below for sectioning.
(2)
Remove damaged portion of top rail and prepare for inserting.
(a) Mark around the damaged area with chalk or scribe. Mark a rectangular, oval, or diamond shape depending on the
general shape of the damaged area. A rectangular shape will be easiest to work with.
CAUTION
Direct oxygen-acetylene torch away from corner fittings, side and end rails, and side and end
panels to prevent damage to any of these parts.
(b) Tack weld guide bars in place to ensure straight cuts with an oxygen acetylene torch. Even,
accurate cutting will eliminate wide gaps between the rail and the new insert.
(c) Cut out the damaged area with an oxygen acetylene torch.
(d)
Grind smooth all cut edges.
(3)
Cut insert.
(a) Using guide bars, cut a replacement insert to the exact shape of the damaged area.
(b) Grind smooth cut edges of insert.
(4)
Fit and weld insert in place.
(a) Fit insert in place. Insert should be flush against the top rail edges on all sides.
(b) Bevel edges of the insert and top rail cutout area to a thirty degree angle. See figure 3-6.
(c)
Tack weld insert in place.
(d) Continuously weld insert to top rail.
(e) Clean and paint according to paragraph 2-4.
c.
Sectioning. If inserting does not cover the damaged area, it may be repaired by replacing a complete section of
rail. The replacement section must be identical to the damaged rail in length and profile.
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