The Army's combat vehicle inspection checklist, also known as DA Form 7814, is a critical tool used to ensure the safety and readiness of military vehicles. This comprehensive checklist helps maintainers and inspectors identify potential issues before they become major problems, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that vehicles are combat-ready.
The DA Form 7814 is divided into several sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of the vehicle's condition. Inspectors must carefully examine the vehicle's exterior, interior, and mechanical components, checking for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction.
Pre-Inspection Checklist
Before beginning the inspection, maintainers and inspectors must ensure they have the necessary equipment and documentation. This includes:
- DA Form 7814, Combat Vehicle Inspection Checklist
- A copy of the vehicle's maintenance records
- A flashlight or other light source
- A lug wrench or other tools necessary for the inspection
- Safety glasses and gloves
Exterior Inspection
The exterior inspection is a critical component of the DA Form 7814. Inspectors must carefully examine the vehicle's exterior, checking for signs of damage or wear. This includes:
- Tires: Check for proper inflation, tread depth, and signs of wear or damage
- Wheels: Check for proper tightening and signs of damage or wear
- Body: Check for signs of damage or rust
- Glass: Check for cracks or breaks in windshields and windows
- Lights: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
Additional Exterior Inspection Items
In addition to the above items, inspectors must also check the following:
- Mirrors: Check for proper adjustment and signs of damage or wear
- Antennas: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Decals: Check for proper display and signs of wear or damage
Interior Inspection
The interior inspection is another critical component of the DA Form 7814. Inspectors must carefully examine the vehicle's interior, checking for signs of damage or wear. This includes:
- Seats: Check for proper function and signs of wear or damage
- Belts: Check for proper function and signs of wear or damage
- Instruments: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Radio: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
Additional Interior Inspection Items
In addition to the above items, inspectors must also check the following:
- Heating and air conditioning: Check for proper function
- Lighting: Check for proper function
- Electrical systems: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
Mechanical Inspection
The mechanical inspection is a critical component of the DA Form 7814. Inspectors must carefully examine the vehicle's mechanical components, checking for signs of damage or wear. This includes:
- Engine: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Transmission: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Brakes: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Suspension: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
Additional Mechanical Inspection Items
In addition to the above items, inspectors must also check the following:
- Cooling system: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Fuel system: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
- Exhaust system: Check for proper function and signs of damage or wear
Post-Inspection Checklist
After completing the inspection, maintainers and inspectors must ensure that all necessary repairs and maintenance are completed. This includes:
- Documenting all findings and recommendations in the vehicle's maintenance records
- Completing any necessary repairs or maintenance
- Verifying that the vehicle is safe for operation
Conclusion
The DA Form 7814 is a critical tool used to ensure the safety and readiness of military vehicles. By following this comprehensive checklist, maintainers and inspectors can identify potential issues before they become major problems, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that vehicles are combat-ready.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with the DA Form 7814 in the comments below. What are some best practices for completing this checklist? Are there any additional items that you think should be included? Share your expertise and help us improve this critical process.
What is the purpose of the DA Form 7814?
+The DA Form 7814 is a comprehensive checklist used to ensure the safety and readiness of military vehicles.
What are some of the key items checked during the exterior inspection?
+Some of the key items checked during the exterior inspection include tires, wheels, body, glass, and lights.
What is the importance of documenting findings and recommendations in the vehicle's maintenance records?
+Documenting findings and recommendations in the vehicle's maintenance records ensures that all necessary repairs and maintenance are completed and provides a record of the vehicle's maintenance history.