Description
AH-1G Cobra M35/XM35 20mm Ammunition-Can Spring Assembly, P/N 8444201, NSN 1005-00-465-8902
Item Overview
This original U.S. Army spring assembly was made for the M35/XM35 20mm armament subsystem used on the AH-1G Cobra attack helicopter. It belongs to the ammunition-can, fairing, and access-panel group. The assembly served as a retainer or hinge mechanism for an ammunition-can inspection door. This is an inert mechanical aircraft component and contains no ammunition or explosive material.
Identification and Features
Federal logistics records identify this component as Spring Assembly P/N 8444201. Bell Helicopter listed the same part as P/N 209-071-202-1. The complete assembly includes a torsion spring, mounting bracket, and two pins. Its January 1973 package date places it within the Vietnam War era of AH-1G Cobra service.
- Official item name: Spring Assembly
- National Stock Number: 1005-00-465-8902
- Legacy Federal Stock Number: 1005-465-8902
- Army part number: 8444201
- Bell Helicopter part number: 209-071-202-1
- Torsion spring: P/N 8444200
- Bracket: P/N 8444202
- Additional components: Two pins
- Package date: January 1973
- Catalog status: Canceled August 1991
- Application: AH-1G Cobra M35/XM35 20mm armament subsystem
- Status: Inert mechanical component
Function and System Placement
This assembly was positioned in the ammunition-can and access-panel area of the M35/XM35 subsystem. Its torsion spring placed steady pressure on the related inspection door or retainer, while the bracket and pins supported its movement. A 1969 Army evaluation of the XM35 recorded an ammunition inspection-door retainer spring that vibrated loose during firing.
M35/XM35 Armament Subsystem
The M35 was a fixed armament subsystem that mounted an M195 six-barrel 20mm automatic cannon on the left side of the AH-1G Cobra. The M195 was derived from the M61 Vulcan but used shorter barrels for helicopter service. Large ammunition cans were mounted along the aircraft’s fuselage and fed the gun through a crossover chute. The complete installation carried about 950 rounds and gave the Cobra heavier and longer-range fire than its rifle-caliber weapons.
Historical Background
Bell developed the AH-1 Cobra during the Vietnam War as a fast, purpose-built attack helicopter based on proven UH-1 components. The first AH-1Gs reached the Army in 1967 and soon flew escort, reconnaissance, and direct-fire missions in Southeast Asia. The Army evaluated the XM35 system in 1969, and the standardized M35 became one of the Cobra’s most powerful optional weapon installations. Small parts such as this spring assembly helped keep the ammunition doors and fairings secure during flight and cannon fire.
Condition
This is a historical military-surplus aircraft component. It may show aged preservative, finish wear, scratches, discoloration, surface oxidation, storage marks, or wear to the original packaging. The January 1973 marking records the package date and does not necessarily show when the assembly was manufactured. The August 1991 cancellation date refers to its federal catalog status. This listing is for one spring assembly only; the ammunition can, access door, fairing, cannon, aircraft, and other subsystem parts are not included unless specifically stated.
Ideal For
This uncommon component is well suited for collections and exhibits covering AH-1 Cobra helicopters, Vietnam War aviation, and American aircraft armament systems.
- AH-1G Cobra restoration projects
- M35 and XM35 armament displays
- Vietnam War aviation collections
- Military aircraft parts research
- Helicopter armament exhibits
- Museums and educational displays
Approx length 4", Approx width 2", Approx height 2", Approx weight 0.3lbs.
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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