United States Marines Use AM for New Vehicle Maintenance Tool

Once again the American military is turning to additive manufacturing (AM) for innovative applications to help them in the field. This time, Marine Corps System Command’s (MCSC) Advanced Manufacturing Operations Cell (AMOC) has helped to develop a 3D printed metal steering wheel removal device in collaboration with the 1st Supply Battalion and industry partners. The new tool will enable Marines to remove the steering wheel during routine maintenance without damaging it, ensuring that the car will not need to be put out of service.

Though it seems like a niche issue, the Marines often have to remove the steering wheel columns for the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement and Logistics Vehicle System Replacement, namely while conducting basic vehicle maintenance. However, the tool they are currently provided with is a 10-way slide hammer. Unfortunately, with that particular tool, users need to apply a significant amount of pressure to the steering wheel column, often breaking or damaging it. In order to replace the steering wheel, a replacement part must be ordered, meaning the vehicle will be out of service for about 25 days. One frustrated soldier chose to make a solution, eventually using AM to design a tool that could be used by any Marine hoping to prevent costly delays.

Inside the steering wheel (photo credits: Gunnery Sgt. Michele Hunt/USMC)

Of course, if you need to make an innovative tool, additive manufacturing is the way to go. Though the original prototype, made by Staff Sgt. Kyle Owens, a motor transportation chief with 1st Marine Logistics Group, was made using scrap metal and washers, in 2012, this year he was able to collaborate with his unit’s innovation officer to make a prototype using AM. The first iterations of the tool were made out of polymers as most of the Marine’s 3D printers use the material. Once a form, fit and function check of the final polymer tool was completed, they turned to metal AM to create the final prototype.