Description
155mm M114/M114A1 Howitzer Traversing-Mechanism Pinion Gearshaft, P/N 5573618, NSN 3040-00-754-6687
Item Overview
This original U.S. Army traversing-mechanism pinion was made for the 155mm M114 and M114A1 towed howitzers. Army parts catalogs identify it as “Pinion, Traversing Mechanism,” while its federal supply name is “Gearshaft, Spur.” It is the final output pinion that moved the upper carriage left or right. This is a mechanical howitzer component, not ammunition or an elevation gear.
Identification and Features
Part number 5573618 and the related stock numbers identify this specialized steel gearshaft. The 12-tooth pinion, shouldered shaft, grooves, keyway, and threaded end match the Army catalog illustrations and federal specifications.
- Official federal name: Gearshaft, Spur
- Army description: Pinion, Traversing Mechanism
- Part/drawing number: 5573618
- Historical FSN: 1025-754-6687
- Modern NSN: 3040-00-754-6687
- Army reference CAGE: 19204
- Confirmed application: M114 and M114A1 155mm howitzers
- Gear type: Spur pinion on a shouldered shaft
- Number of teeth: 12
- Gear outside diameter: Approximately 3.40 inches
- Tooth-face width: Approximately 2.50 inches
- Pressure angle: 20°
- Diametral pitch: 4/5
- Material: Cataloged alloy steel
How It Worked
The M114 traversing handwheel transferred motion through gears, flexible joints, a shaft, a worm, and a worm wheel. Part 5573618 formed the final output pinion in this drive. Its teeth engaged the stationary traversing arc, causing the howitzer’s upper carriage to rotate in azimuth. Turning the handwheel clockwise traversed the weapon to the right, while turning it counterclockwise moved the weapon to the left.
Weapon Application
This gearshaft is confirmed for the traversing mechanisms of the M114 and M114A1 155mm towed howitzers. Later Army manuals also cover the M114A2, but direct part-number confirmation for that variant has not been established. Buyers should compare the part number and dimensions before assuming M114A2 compatibility.
Historical Background
The weapon entered U.S. service as the 155mm Howitzer M1 during World War II. It provided longer-range medium artillery support and continued serving during the Korean War. The system was redesignated M114 in 1962 and remained an important U.S. Army artillery weapon during the Vietnam War and Cold War. M114-family howitzers were also supplied to allied nations, giving the design a long service life around the world.
Condition
This is an original military-surplus mechanical component. It may show storage grease, scratches, finish loss, oxidation, tool marks, or other signs of age and handling. This listing includes one gearshaft only; the traversing arc, handwheel, gearbox, carriage, and other howitzer components are not included. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item.
Ideal For
This uncommon traversing-mechanism component is well suited for collections, museum exhibits, restoration projects, and technical displays focused on American field artillery.
- M114 and M114A1 howitzer collections
- U.S. Army artillery exhibits
- Military museums and educational displays
- Historic howitzer restoration projects
- Ordnance parts research
- Field-artillery training displays
Approx length 14.09", Approx width 3.4", Approx height 3.4", Approx weight lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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