Bridge classification Austin Champ

[cossy1]

Hi All

Can anybody tell me the bridge classification for a Austin Champ . I have seen the number 3 and 4 on the yellow bridge plate ?

Regards Tony.

[fv1609]

3 is correct

[58 BE 88]

As always, there isn't a single straightforward answer to this and the date

is important.

The Champ EMER and User Handbook state a bridge classification of 3 as Clive

says, although the original choice of this figure is a little strange as the

unladen weight of a Champ is only 1.6375 Tons and even laden with a crew and

kit is only listed at 2 Tons exactly. Perhaps they rounded up the metric

equivalent of 2.032 tonnes to the next highest whole number or took into

account likely overloading, but it still produced a rather unrealistic

bridge classification. It's difficult to see how some units decided on 4

even adding a 1/2 ton trailer. When occasionally towing a 25pdr (with

reduced performance as the handbook says!), maybe!

 

However this was changed by A.C.I (Army Council Instruction) 89 of 1960

which introduced a new system of classification which later became

standardized across NATO as STANAG 2021.

The explanation to the change says that the new load classification numbers

bear no relation to those of the former system and go on to explain that

"Each load class number is based on vehicles at normal convoy speeds and at

100 feet spacing". The principles of compliance - don't cross a bridge with

a number smaller than that of your vehicle, remain the same.

 

Equipment Regulations 1959 Pamphlet 9 W.O. code 12473 para 22 onwards lays

down the style of the plate and where on vehicles it is displayed.

 

Equipment regulations, Supplement to Pamphlet No. 9, W.O. code 14105 dated

23 October 1963 entitled "Bridge Load Classification of Vehicles" says the

indicated figure should be 2. (page 27 serials 1 (1/4 ton Austin cargo) and

23 (1/4 ton Austin FFW).

 

In the 1970s, someone decided that having a 9 inch golden yellow disc on

vehicles that were trying not to be seen by an enemy wasn't such a good idea

after all and they were changed to grey for vehicles over three tons and

discontinued completely on smaller vehicles.

The exact turning point was the CRAOC Bulletin 8/77 Annex E with

immediate effect(amending Materiel Regs for the Army, Volume 2, Pam

No.3 AC No.60503 Mar 1975). This also dealt with the planned abolition

of Formation heraldic signs/badges & Arm/Service identifying colour

signs to be phased out from 31/3/78.

 

So it all depends on the timeframe that you have decided that your Champ

should be restored to. And be prepared for arguments!

 

Andy 58 BE 88

Edited March 19, 2013 by 58 BE 88
Spelling!

[fv1609]

Andy yes I agree with what you have said the big shake up was 1963, which is why the '3' I quoted was taken from Data Book of WD GS 'B' Vehicles WO Code 12710 of 1960.

 

If I can add to what you said prior to implementation of STANAG 2021 the UK had already abandoned the system that was in operation from 1939 where classification was based on weight alone.

 

Notes on M.T. Administration W.O. Code No.11060 issued in November 1954 suspended Bridge Classification Signs in the U.K. In overseas theatres this sign could still be used at the discretion of the C-in-C and G.O.C-in-C. where considered necessary.

 

In fact such classification was only ordered in Bridge Classification Signs (Overseas Only) W.O.Code No.8229. Although vehicles at that time were classed in multiples of 1 ton, it was not just the laden weight. They were calculated from data which included the load capacity, tyre sizes etc.

 

So the earlier system would explain the inconsistencies you mentioned in the first part of your post.

[Locolines]

There's one on eBay right now