M1 ABRAMS Tank System Maintainer (63A)
- Enlisted
- Active Duty
- Army Reserve
- Closed to Women
Army forces use a wide array of weapons, from small field artillery to large ballistic missiles. Most of these weapons have electronic components and systems that help locate targets, aim weapons and fire those weapons. The ABRAMS Systems Maintainer is an integral member of the team that’s responsible for keeping these weapons operating properly.
The M-1 Abrams Tank System Maintainer is primarily responsible for supervising and performing maintenance on Abrams tanks. Some of your duties as an M-1 Abrams Systems Maintainer may include:
- Performing major assembly replacement, including the turret and fire control systems
- Diagnosing and troubleshooting malfunctions
- Performing organizational maintenance and on-board direct support tasks on the suspension systems, steering systems, hydraulic systems, auxiliary power units, fire extinguisher/suppression systems, gas particulate systems and fire control systems
- Repairing and maintaining Abrams weapon systems and infantry weapons
- Cleaning and lubricating gyroscopes, sights and other electro-optical fire control components
- Repairing and maintaining missile mounts, platforms and launch mechanisms
- Testing and adjusting weapons firing, guidance and launch systems
Training:
Job training for an M-1 Abrams Tank Systems Maintainer consists of nine weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 16 weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field. Some of the skills you learn are:
- Electronic and mechanical principles and concepts
- Use of electronic, electrical and mechanical test equipment
- Use of schematics, drawings and wiring diagrams
- Operation, testing and maintenance of weapons systems
Helpful Skills:
Helpful attributes include:
- An interest in science and math
- An interest in working with electronic or electrical equipment
- An ability to do work requiring accuracy and attention to detail
- An interest in working with diesel engines
Advanced Responsibilities:
Advanced level M-1 Abrams Tank Systems Maintainers supervise and train other Soldiers within the same skill level. As an advanced level M-1 Abrams Tank Systems Maintainer, you may also be involved in:
- Diagnosing and troubleshooting malfunctions
- Performing organizational maintenance and on-board direct support tasks, including major assembly replacement
