M984A4 Wrecker TM PDF: A Comprehensive Overview (December 16, 2025)
Today, December 16, 2025, we delve into the M984A4 Wrecker’s technical manual (TM-9-2320-342-10-1), a vital resource for operators and maintainers of this
powerful 8×8 recovery vehicle, offering detailed guidance and specifications.
The M984A4 Wrecker is a cornerstone of heavy recovery operations, built upon the robust Oshkosh HEMTT A4 platform. This 10-ton vehicle provides critical recovery and handling capabilities for military logistics. Its primary function is to recover disabled vehicles, including other HEMTT variants, and transport them back to maintenance facilities.

Equipped with a powerful 27,240 kg (60,050 lb) capacity two-speed recovery winch and a 11,340 kg capacity vehicle retrieval system, the M984A4 ensures comprehensive recovery support. Furthermore, a 6,350 kg (14,000 lb) Grove materials handling crane adds versatility for loading and unloading tasks.
Understanding the intricacies of this vehicle requires access to its technical manual, TM-9-2320-342-10-1, a comprehensive document detailing operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures. The M984A4’s design prioritizes durability and reliability, making it an indispensable asset in challenging operational environments.
Historical Context of the HEMTT
The Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) originated in the 1980s as a replacement for the aging 5-ton and 10-ton trucks used by the US military. Oshkosh Defense was selected to produce the HEMTT, initially designated the M977, offering significantly improved off-road performance and payload capacity.
Over the years, the HEMTT evolved through several iterations, including the M984 wrecker variant, designed for vehicle recovery. The M984A4 represents the latest upgrade, incorporating enhanced features and improved reliability. These advancements addressed the evolving needs of modern military logistics and battlefield operations.
The HEMTT’s success stems from its adaptable design, allowing for various configurations to support diverse missions. From cargo transport (M985A4) to MLRS resupply, the HEMTT’s versatility is unmatched. The availability of detailed documentation, like TM-9-2320-342-10-1, has been crucial for maintaining operational readiness throughout its service history.
Key Features of the M984A4
The M984A4 Wrecker stands out with its robust recovery capabilities, centered around a 27,240 kg (60,050 lb) capacity two-speed recovery winch. This allows for the extraction of disabled vehicles in challenging terrain. Complementing the winch is a rear-mounted 11,340 kg capacity vehicle retrieval system, expanding recovery options.
A significant feature is the Grove materials handling crane, boasting a 6,350 kg (14,000 lb) lift capacity at a 2.74 m (9.0 ft) reach. This crane facilitates loading and unloading of equipment and supplies. The HEMTT A4 chassis provides exceptional mobility, enabling operation across diverse environments.
Operators rely on the comprehensive TM-9-2320-342-10-1 technical manual for detailed guidance. The M984A4’s design prioritizes durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring sustained operational effectiveness. Its ability to deliver ammunition where needed, as highlighted by Oshkosh Defense, underscores its critical role in modern logistics.
Technical Manual (TM-9-2320-342-10-1) Details
The TM-9-2320-342-10-1, officially titled “TRUCK, WRECKER, 8X8 M984A4 TECHNICAL MANUAL; OPERATORS MANUAL,” is a comprehensive 1428-page document crucial for the M984A4’s operation and upkeep. Published in October 2008, it serves as the primary reference for personnel involved with this vehicle.

This manual details procedures for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. It covers all aspects of the wrecker, from the recovery winch and vehicle retrieval system to the Grove crane and HEMTT A4 chassis. Accessing this PDF document is vital for ensuring safe and effective utilization.
The manual’s structure allows for quick location of specific information, aiding in efficient maintenance and minimizing downtime. It’s a cornerstone resource for maximizing the M984A4’s operational lifespan and maintaining peak performance, as emphasized by Oshkosh Defense’s commitment to reliability.
Overview of the TM-9-2320-342-10-1 Document
The TM-9-2320-342-10-1 document provides an exhaustive guide to the M984A4 Wrecker, functioning as the definitive resource for all operational and maintenance procedures. It’s structured to facilitate easy navigation, enabling technicians and operators to quickly locate critical information regarding the vehicle’s complex systems.
Key areas covered include detailed instructions for the 27,240 kg recovery winch, the 11,340 kg vehicle retrieval system, and the 6,350 kg Grove materials handling crane. The manual also outlines preventative maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, and component overhaul procedures.
Understanding the contents of this PDF is paramount for ensuring the M984A4 operates at peak efficiency and reliability, supporting mission-critical operations and extending the vehicle’s service life, as intended by Oshkosh Defense.
Sections Covered in the Technical Manual
TM-9-2320-342-10-1 meticulously details various aspects of the M984A4 Wrecker. Initial sections focus on vehicle description, system operation, and maintenance procedures, providing a foundational understanding.
Dedicated chapters cover the recovery winch – including operation, maintenance, and safety protocols – alongside the vehicle retrieval system and the Grove materials handling crane, detailing capacity and operational considerations. Further sections address the chassis, engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
The manual also includes comprehensive troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, and parts lists, facilitating efficient repairs. Appendices contain data on load capacities, torque specifications, and relevant DA Form 2028 procedures related to the AEPS system. This structured approach ensures all facets of the M984A4 are thoroughly documented.
Recovery Winch Specifications
The M984A4 Wrecker is equipped with a robust, two-speed recovery winch, central to its capabilities. TM-9-2320-342-10-1 specifies a pulling capacity of 27,240 kg (60,050 lb), providing substantial recovery force.
The winch features multiple line configurations, enhancing versatility for diverse recovery scenarios. Detailed specifications cover rope length, diameter, and breaking strength, alongside gear ratios for both speed settings. Operational guidelines emphasize safe rigging practices and load limits.
Maintenance sections outline inspection procedures, lubrication schedules, and component replacement instructions. Troubleshooting guides address common winch malfunctions, ensuring optimal performance. The manual stresses adherence to safety protocols during winch operation, minimizing risk and maximizing effectiveness in challenging recovery situations.
Vehicle Retrieval System Capabilities

Complementing the recovery winch, the M984A4 features a rear-mounted vehicle retrieval system (VRS) with an 11,340 kg (25,000 lb) capacity. TM-9-2320-342-10-1 details its operation, emphasizing its role in recovering lighter vehicles or assisting with complex extractions.
The VRS utilizes a hydraulic system and specialized rigging points for secure attachment. Manual sections cover proper sling selection, load balancing, and safe lifting procedures. Operational notes highlight limitations based on terrain and vehicle weight.
Maintenance procedures focus on hydraulic fluid checks, hose inspections, and component lubrication. Troubleshooting guides address common VRS malfunctions, ensuring reliable operation. The manual stresses the importance of coordinated winch and VRS usage for optimal recovery performance, enhancing the M984A4’s versatility.
Grove Materials Handling Crane Details
The M984A4 Wrecker is equipped with a 6,350 kg (14,000 lb) capacity Grove materials handling crane, boasting a 2.74 m (9.0 ft) reach. TM-9-2320-342-10-1 provides comprehensive instructions on crane operation, safety protocols, and load chart interpretation.
Detailed diagrams illustrate crane components, including the boom, hoist, and rotator. The manual emphasizes pre-operational checks, covering hydraulic levels, cable integrity, and safety device functionality. Sections outline proper lifting techniques, load securing methods, and communication signals.
Maintenance schedules detail lubrication points, filter replacement intervals, and inspection procedures. Troubleshooting guides address common crane malfunctions, ensuring efficient repair. The manual highlights the crane’s utility for loading/unloading equipment and supporting recovery operations, enhancing the vehicle’s overall capabilities.

Crane Capacity and Reach
The Grove materials handling crane on the M984A4 Wrecker demonstrates significant lifting power, with a rated capacity of 6,350 kg (14,000 lb). This capacity is achieved at a maximum reach of 2.74 m (9.0 ft), as detailed within TM-9-2320-342-10-1.
The technical manual provides extensive load charts, illustrating capacity reductions at varying radii and boom angles. Understanding these charts is crucial for safe operation. Factors influencing capacity include load weight, boom configuration, and ground conditions.
The crane’s reach allows for versatile material handling, enabling the lifting and positioning of components during vehicle recovery or logistical support. TM-9-2320-342-10-1 stresses adherence to capacity limits and proper rigging techniques to prevent accidents and ensure operational efficiency.
Operational Considerations for the Crane
TM-9-2320-342-10-1 emphasizes several critical operational considerations for the Grove materials handling crane on the M984A4. Prior to operation, a thorough inspection of the crane, rigging, and surrounding area is mandatory. Operators must verify proper leveling of the vehicle to ensure stability during lifting operations.
Load charts, detailed within the technical manual, must be consulted to determine safe lifting capacities based on load weight, radius, and boom angle. Operators should avoid exceeding these limits. Proper rigging techniques, including the selection of appropriate slings and shackles, are essential for secure load handling.
The manual also highlights the importance of clear communication and designated spotters during crane operations. Awareness of overhead obstructions and personnel safety zones is paramount. Regular maintenance, as outlined in TM-9-2320-342-10-1, is vital for continued safe and reliable crane performance.
Oshkosh Defense HEMTT A4 Variants
Oshkosh Defense produces a versatile range of HEMTT A4 variants, building upon the core capabilities of the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck. Beyond the M984A4 Wrecker, the family includes specialized vehicles designed for diverse logistical roles. A prominent example is the M985A4 Cargo/MLRS Resupply Vehicle, crucial for delivering ammunition to the battlefield.
These variants share common components, simplifying logistics and maintenance. However, each is tailored with specific configurations to meet unique operational requirements. The HEMTT A4’s robust chassis and powerful engine provide a consistent foundation for all models, ensuring exceptional off-road performance and payload capacity.
Understanding these variants is essential when referencing TM-9-2320-342-10-1, as certain procedures and component details may differ between models. The adaptability of the HEMTT A4 platform underscores its importance to modern military operations.
M985A4 Cargo/MLRS Resupply Vehicle
The M985A4 Cargo/MLRS Resupply Vehicle represents a critical logistical asset within the HEMTT A4 family. Specifically designed to transport ammunition, particularly for Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), it ensures sustained firepower on the battlefield. This variant boasts the HEMTT A4’s renowned mobility, capable of navigating challenging terrains to deliver vital supplies where needed.
Its primary function is to provide reliable resupply, contributing directly to operational effectiveness. While distinct from the recovery role of the M984A4 Wrecker, the M985A4 shares many core components, streamlining maintenance and training. Oshkosh Defense engineered this vehicle to withstand demanding conditions, prioritizing durability and payload capacity.
Information regarding specific load configurations and operational procedures for the M985A4 can be found within relevant technical manuals, complementing the broader guidance in TM-9-2320-342-10-1.
DA Form 2028 and AEPS
DA Form 2028 serves as a crucial feedback mechanism for users of technical manuals, including the TM-9-2320-342-10-1 pertaining to the M984A4 Wrecker. This form allows personnel to report errors, omissions, or suggest improvements to the documentation, ensuring its accuracy and relevance.

The preferred method for submitting DA Form 2028 is through the Army Electronic Publishing System (AEPS). Located within the “Pub. c Applications” section of the AEPS Public Home Page, the online form streamlines the submission process. Utilizing AEPS enables quicker response times and improved management of user feedback.

Completing and submitting the form via AEPS directly contributes to the ongoing refinement of technical publications. Alternatively, submissions can be made via mail, email, or fax, though AEPS is the recommended approach for efficiency. This process ensures the M984A4 documentation remains current and effective.
Performance Characteristics of the M984A4
The M984A4 Wrecker, a cornerstone of heavy recovery operations, boasts impressive performance capabilities detailed within TM-9-2320-342-10-1. This vehicle excels in challenging terrains, delivering power and versatility essential for mission success. It’s designed to withstand demanding conditions and consistently deliver peak performance.
Key to its effectiveness is the ability to haul fuel along unpaved roads and accelerate over unstable ground. The M984A4’s robust construction ensures it can endure whatever the mission demands. Its heavy-duty components and powerful engine contribute to its reliability and operational readiness.
Oshkosh Defense engineered the HEMTT A4, including the M984A4, to be the ultimate heavy tactical vehicle, showcasing unrivaled power and cutting-edge features. This vehicle is the preferred choice for critical operations, proving its worth on the modern battlefield.
Terrain Maneuverability

The M984A4 Wrecker’s exceptional terrain maneuverability is a defining characteristic, thoroughly documented in TM-9-2320-342-10-1. Built on the HEMTT A4 platform, this 8×8 vehicle navigates treacherous landscapes with remarkable ease, ensuring recovery operations aren’t hampered by ground conditions.
Its design prioritizes stability and traction, allowing it to traverse unpaved roads, muddy fields, and unstable terrain effectively. The vehicle’s robust suspension system and powerful drivetrain contribute to its off-road prowess, enabling it to reach stranded vehicles in difficult-to-access locations.

Oshkosh Defense’s commitment to building vehicles capable of withstanding any environment is evident in the M984A4. It’s engineered to maintain mobility and control, even when faced with challenging obstacles, making it a vital asset for military logistics and recovery missions.
Load Capacity and Distribution
The M984A4 Wrecker, as detailed in TM-9-2320-342-10-1, boasts impressive load capacity and carefully engineered distribution. Its primary function – vehicle recovery – demands the ability to handle substantial weight, and the M984A4 delivers. The recovery winch itself is rated for 27,240 kg (60,050 lb), a testament to its pulling power.
Beyond the winch, the vehicle features a rear-mounted Vehicle Retrieval System (VRS) capable of handling 11,340 kg. Furthermore, the integrated Grove materials handling crane can lift up to 6,350 kg (14,000 lb) at a 2.74 m (9.0 ft) reach.
Load distribution is critical for stability during recovery operations. The M984A4’s design ensures balanced weight distribution, minimizing the risk of tipping or instability when lifting or towing heavy loads, as outlined within the technical manual’s operational guidelines.
Nuclear Hardening Considerations (or Lack Thereof)
Information regarding the M984A4 Wrecker, specifically as documented in resources referencing TM-9-2320-342-10-1 and related vehicle databases, indicates a notable absence of dedicated nuclear hardening features. Unlike some specialized military vehicles designed for operation in a nuclear environment, the M984A4 prioritizes recovery capabilities and tactical mobility over extensive radiation shielding.
Specifically, records for part number 2320-01-534-2245, identifying a M984a4 Wrecker Truck, explicitly state it does not possess such hardening. This design choice reflects the vehicle’s intended role – battlefield recovery – where rapid response and operational effectiveness are paramount, rather than sustained operation within a heavily contaminated zone.
While standard military-grade components offer some inherent resilience, the M984A4 relies on operational procedures and dispersal to mitigate risks in a nuclear event.
Maintenance and Repair Information (Referencing TM)
The TM-9-2320-342-10-1 technical manual serves as the definitive guide for maintaining and repairing the M984A4 Wrecker. It details comprehensive procedures, from routine inspections and preventative maintenance schedules to in-depth troubleshooting and component overhaul instructions. The manual covers all major systems, including the recovery winch, vehicle retrieval system, and the Grove materials handling crane.

Operators and mechanics will find detailed diagrams, parts lists, and step-by-step instructions for tasks like fluid level checks, filter replacements, brake system maintenance, and electrical system diagnostics. Specific attention is given to the HEMTT A4 chassis and its unique components.
Adherence to the TM’s guidelines is crucial for ensuring the M984A4’s operational readiness and extending its service life, maximizing its effectiveness in critical recovery missions.
Availability of the TM PDF Online
Accessing the TM-9-2320-342-10-1 in PDF format is vital for personnel requiring immediate access to maintenance and operational procedures for the M984A4 Wrecker. While official distribution channels may vary, numerous online resources offer this technical manual for download.
However, users should exercise caution when sourcing the PDF, ensuring the document originates from a reputable and verified source to guarantee accuracy and completeness. Several military and defense-related websites archive technical manuals, and some may host the M984A4’s TM.
It’s important to verify the document’s publication date (October 2008 for the referenced version) and page count (1428 pages) to confirm its authenticity. Always prioritize official channels when possible, and be aware of potential copyright restrictions.
Future Developments and Upgrades
Considering the M984A4’s established role, future developments will likely focus on integrating advanced technologies to enhance recovery capabilities and streamline maintenance, potentially reflected in updated TM revisions.
Areas of potential upgrade include improved winch control systems, enhanced vehicle retrieval system automation, and integration of advanced diagnostics for faster troubleshooting. Modernization efforts may also prioritize incorporating lighter materials to increase payload capacity and fuel efficiency.
Furthermore, software updates for onboard systems and the potential for remote diagnostic capabilities could become standard. While the base M984A4 lacks nuclear hardening (2320-01-534-2245), future iterations might address evolving threat landscapes. Accessing the latest TM PDF will be crucial for understanding these changes.