Description
U.S. 75mm Pack Howitzer M1A1 on Carriage M8 Drawbar Locking-Pin Assembly, P/N 6224900, NSN 5315-00-622-4900
The drawbar locking-pin assembly, identified by part number 6224900 and NSN 5315-00-622-4900, is a U.S. Army quick-release carriage component for the 75mm Pack Howitzer M1A1 on Carriage M8. The complete weapon was later cataloged as the M116.
Army Technical Manual TM 9-3051 identifies this part as “PIN, LOCKING, DRAWBAR ASSY—6224900.” Its official supply name is Pin, Quick Release. The assembly locks the folding towing drawbar in its travel position and allows it to be released quickly when preparing the howitzer for firing.
Historical Significance
The 75mm Pack Howitzer was developed to provide light artillery support in areas where larger guns were difficult to move. Its compact design allowed the weapon and carriage to be taken apart for transport by pack animal, parachute, aircraft or glider.
The M8 carriage added pneumatic tires and a towing drawbar. This allowed the howitzer to be pulled behind a military vehicle while also keeping the lightweight and portable features needed by airborne and other mobile artillery units.
The M1A1 on Carriage M8 served during World War II and remained in use after the war, including during the Korean War. The complete weapon was later redesignated the M116.
The folding drawbar was an important part of the carriage’s mobile design. It extended behind the trail for towing and swung forward over the trail when the howitzer was placed into its firing position.
What This Item Is and Does
The locking-pin assembly secures the towing drawbar in its rearward travel position.
Two ball detents hold the pin in place during use. Pulling the L-shaped handle releases the ball detents so the pin can be withdrawn. Once the pin is removed, the drawbar can swing forward over the trail for firing.
To prepare the carriage for travel, the drawbar is returned to its towing position and the locking pin is reinstalled.
This is the drawbar locking-pin assembly. It is not the separate drawbar pivot pin, towing pintle, pintle latch or complete drawbar assembly.
Key Features
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Official nomenclature: Pin, Quick Release
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Army manual nomenclature: Pin, Locking, Drawbar Assembly
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Part number: 6224900
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NSN: 5315-00-622-4900
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NIIN: 00-622-4900
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Federal Supply Class: 5315
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Parent equipment: 75mm Pack Howitzer M1A1 on Carriage M8
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Later weapon designation: M116
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Application: Folding towing drawbar
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Function: Locks the drawbar in its travel position
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Release design: L-shaped handle with two ball detents
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Manual reference: TM 9-3051, page 147, Figure 107
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Included: One drawbar locking-pin assembly
Why This Item Matters
Small carriage parts are often separated from the artillery systems they were made for. Without the correct locking pin, the M8 carriage drawbar cannot be positively secured in its towing position.
The documented part number, NSN and manual reference make this assembly more useful than an unidentified quick-release pin. It is an important component for restoration planning, parts identification and museum interpretation.
Its L-shaped handle and ball-detent design also show how the Army allowed crews to move the lightweight howitzer quickly between travel and firing positions.
About This Item
This listing is for one drawbar locking-pin assembly only. The howitzer, M8 carriage, towing drawbar, caster wheel, pintle and other carriage hardware are not included.
Finish, markings and wear may vary between inventory examples. Use part number 6224900 and NSN 5315-00-622-4900 to confirm the correct application for your restoration or display.
Ideal For
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M1A1 75mm Pack Howitzer restorations
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M116 howitzer restoration projects
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M8 carriage restoration and parts identification
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World War II airborne-artillery displays
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Korean War artillery collections
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U.S. military museums
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Historic carriage-hardware collections
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Technical and educational exhibits
Approx length 6", Approx width 1", Approx height 1", Approx weight 1.2 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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