TM 9-2320-280-10
1-16.
2-ULITTER AMBULANCES, ARMORED (M996 AND
M996A1); 4-LITTER AMBULANCES, ARMORED
(M997, M997A1, AND M997A2)
a.
Differences. The M996 and M996A1 are armored 2-litter ambulances. The M997, M997A1, and
M997A2 are 4-litter ambulances with armor protection and air conditioning for crew and patients. The A2
models have new bumpers, which make the vehicles slightly longer. A 9,000 lb winch is also available for the
A2 models as an option. These differences affect:
•
Approach Angle
•
Special Winch-Assisted Operations
•
Vehicle Length
•
Vehicle Weight
•
Shipping Dimensions
b.
Purpose of the Vehicle.
(1)
M996 and M996A1 Armored 2-Litter Ambulances. The M996 and M996A1 ambulances are capable
of transporting up to two litter patients, six ambulatory patients, or a combination of litter and ambulatory
patients. Additionally, medical personnel, equipment, and a driver can be accommodated in the vehicle. The
patient compartment is heated with a vehicle-mounted fuel burning heater. For operation in an NBC
environment, the M996 and M996A1 are equipped with a Gas-Particulate Filter Unit (GPFU) with heaters
capable of supporting up to five personnel equipped with either M25 series protective masks or M13 series
patient protective masks. The GPFU forces temperature-controlled, filtered air to the mask facepieces, which
increases protection, eases breathing, and reduces stress and heat fatigue during extended periods of NBC
operation.
(2)
M997, M997A1, and M997A2 Armored 4-Litter Ambulances. The M997, M997A1, and M997A2
ambulances are capable of transporting up to four litter patients, eight ambulatory patients, or a combination of
litter and ambulatory patients. Additionally, medical personnel, equipment, and a driver can be accommodated
in the vehicle. The ambulance can be heated, ventilated, or air conditioned, depending on environmental
conditions. For operation in an NBC environment, the M997, M997A1, and M997A2 are equipped with a Gas-
Particulate Filter Unit (GPFU) with heaters capable of supporting up to seven personnel equipped with either
M25 series protective masks or M13 series patient protective masks. The GPFU forces temperature-controlled,
filtered air to the mask facepieces, which increases protection, eases breathing, and reduces stress and heat
fatigue during extended periods of NBC operation.
c.
Performance. Fully-loaded M996, M996A1, M997, M997A1, and M997A2 ambulances will climb road
grades as steep as 60% (31°) and traverse a side slope of up to 40% (220). The vehicles ford hard bottom
water crossings up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) without a deep water fording kit and 60 inches (152
centimeters) with the kit. Refer to table 1-15 for cruising range.
d.
Special Limitations. None.
e.
Special Instructions in the Manual.
(1)
Refer to paragraph 2-2, Controls, Indicators, and Equipment.
(2)
Refer to chapter 2, section VII, Ambulance Operation.
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