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9 - 1556

TM 9-1556
WAR DEPARTMENT TECHNICAL MANUAL

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE

OBSERVATION
TELESCOPES
M48 AND M49
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WAR DEPARTMENT 8 JUNE 1944

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA LIBRARY

X004787183
91-20 - P
1

WAR DEPARTMENT TECHNICAL MANUAL

TM 9-1556

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE

OBSERVATION
TELESCOPES
M48 AND M49

WAR DEPARTMENT 8 JUNE 1944

 WAR DEPARTMENT
Washington 25 , D. C., 8 June 1944

TM 9-1556, Ordnance Maintenance : Observation Telescopes M48

and M49, is published for the information and guidance of all
concerned.

A.G. 300.7 ( 13 May 44 )

[a.co
0.0 . 300.7 , 1882 ]
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR :

G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.

OFFICIAL :
J. A. ULIO,,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.

DISTRIBUTION : As prescribed in Par 9a, FM 21-6; IBn 9 ( 2 ) ; IC 9

( 3 ) ; Ord Decentralized Sub - O ( 3 ) ; PE ( Ord O )
( 3 ) ; H and R Points ( 5 ) ; Ord Dist 0 ( 5 ) ; Ord
Regional O ( 3 ) ; Ord Dist Br O ( 3 ) ; Ord Establish
ments ( 5 ) ; Ord Tk Dep ( 3 ) .
IBn 9 - T / O & E 9-75 , 9-315 .

IC 9-T/O & E 9-7, 9-8, 9-9, 9-57, 9-318, 9-377.

( For explanation of symbols, see FM 21-6. )

 TM 9-1556

CONTENTS

Paragraphs Pages

1 SECTION I. Introduction 1- 3 1- 3

II. Description 4-12 3- 8

III. Basic inspection 13-16 8- 9

IV . General maintenance 17-22 9-11

V. Disassembly and assembly 23-31 11-28

VI . References 32-34 29

INDEX 30-31
 TM 9-1556
1-2

Section 1

INTRODUCTION

1. SCOPE .
;

a. This manual is published for the information and guidance of

ordnance personnel. It contains detailed instructions for inspection ,
disassembly, reassembly, maintenance, and repair of the Observation
Telescopes M48 and M49. These instructions are supplementary to
those in Field and Technical Manuals prepared for the using arms.
Additional descriptive matter and illustrations are included to aid
in providing a more complete working knowledge of the materiel.

2. CHARACTERISTICS .

a.
The telescopes discussed herein are used for observation by
the cavalry and infantry. Their chief purpose is to assist in observing
the effectiveness of artillery fire.
h. Both Telescopes M48 and M49 are basically the same. Each
is an erect-image instrument , the image being erected by means of
two porro prisms and magnified by the lenses in the eyepiece. Both
telescopes are the " prism -offset" type and are tubular in shape. The
arrangement of the optical elements is the same in both instruments .

Figure 1 - Observation Telescope M48

c. The equipment for each telescope includes a carrying case and
a tripod with carrying case. Telescope M48 uses Carrying Case M26,
and Tripod M14 with Carrying Case M31 . Telescope M49 uses
Carrying Case M27 , and Tripod M15 with Carrying Case M42.

1
TM 9-1556
2
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M40 AND M40

Figure 2 – Observation Telescope M49

Figure 3 - Observation Telescope M48 and Tripod M14

2
 TM 9-1566
34
DESCRIPTION

3. DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MODELS .

Despite their similarity in many respects, there are some differ
ences between these models, as shown by the following comparative
specifications:
1
M40 MAS
Power 19.6x 201
Field of view 2 ° 8' 2 ° 12'
7 Diameter of exit pupil 0.100 in . 0.108 in .
E. F. L of objective 13.004 in . 14.211 in .
E. F. L. of eyepie ze 0.662 in . 0.716 in
Length 1342 in . approx. 1442 in . approu ,

Figure 4 Observation Telescope M49 and Tripod M15

Section 11
DESCRIPTION
4. OBSERVATION TELESCOPE M48 .
a .
Observation Telescope M48 ( fig . 1 ) is a 19.6 - power telescope
having a field of view of 2 degrees 8 minutes and an exit pupil
diameter of 0.100 inch . The image is erected by a porro prism system .
The over-all length of the telescope with the sunshade closed is ap
proximately 1342 inches.
3
TM 9-1556
4-6

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

b. The major units of Observation Telescope M48 are the ob

jective assembly, body tube, prism housing assembly, and focusing
mechanism with eyepiece assembly.
C. The front of the telescope has a sliding sunshade which can
be extended approximately 2 inches as the need requires.
d.The telescope is furnished with an objective cover and eye
piece cap. These are screwed into place to protect the lenses when
the telescope is not in use.
e. The telescope is focused by pushing or pulling the eyepiece in
or out until an approximate focus is reached, and then turning the
knurled focusing sleeve to obtain exact focus. This arrangement is
made possible by a spring-loaded ball which either rides over the
threads of the focusing nut, when the eyepiece is pushed or pulled ,
oc engages the threads when the eyepiece is turned.

5. OBSERVATION TELESCOPE M49.

a. Observation Telescope M49 ( fig. 2 ) is a 20 -power telescope
having a field of view of 2 degrees 12 minutes and an exit pupil
diameter of 0.108 inch. The image is erected by a porro prism system.
The over-all length of the telescope is approximately 14/2 inches.
b. The major units of Observation Telescope M49 are the ob
jective assembly , the body tube, the prism housing assembly , and
the focusing mechanism with eyepiece assembly.
C. Observation Telescope M49 does not have an adjustable sun
shade. Instead, the front end of the body tube extends approximately
three -quarters of an inch beyond the objective, thereby providing a
permanent sunshade.

d. The telescope is furnished with an objective cover and an

eyepiece cap. These are screwed into place to protect the lenses when
the telescope is not in use.
e. The telescope is focused by turning the knurled focusing
sleeve.

6. ACCESSORIES.

a.Accessories for Observation Telescopes M48 and M49 include

a carrying case for each telescope, a tripod for each telescope, and a
carrying case for each tripod. These accessories are described in the
paragraphs immediately following in this section .
 TM 9-1556
7-8
DESCRIPTION

CASE, CARRYINO 1928

CASE, CARRYING ,M31

Figure 5 Carrying Case M26 for Observation Telescope M48

and Carrying Case M31 for Tripod M14
7. CARRYING CASE M26 ( FOR TELESCOPE M48 ).
a . Carrying Case M26 ( fig. 5 ) is used for transporting observation
telescope M48, and affords protection for the telescope when the latter
is not in use. It is an all -leather case, cylindrical in shape, approxi
mately 3/4 inches in diameter and 14 inches long. The Telescope
M48 fits into the case, objective end down. An elastic loop near the
top of the case fits over the eyepiece cover cap and assists in holding
the telescope securely in place. A leather cap fits snugly over the
top of the carrying case and is secured by a leather strap and buckle.
Loops are provided to receive the shoulder strap which is part of
the equipment and which is used for carrying the case and its contents.

8. TRIPOD M14 ( FOR TELESCOPE M48 ).

a. Tripod M14 ( fig. 6 ) provides a rest for the Telescope M48
and steadies it when in use . The telescope rests in the cradle of the
tripod and is secured by a webbing strap and buckle. A socket-and
ball connection between the tripod cradle and the leg assembly per
mits movement of the telescope. A clamping nut holds the telescope
at any required angle. With the folding legs of the tripod fully ex
5
TM 9-1556
8-10
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M40

Figure 6 - Tripod M14 With Strap

tended, the eyepiece of the mounted telescope stands approximately
11 inches above the surface upon which the tripod rests. The tele
scope can be raised or lowered, and can be held at any position by
tightening the clamping thumbscrew . The tripod folds into a compact
unit which fits readily into the carrying case . The principal assemblies
of the Tripod M14 are the cradle assembly and the leg assembly.
CARRYING CASE M31 ( FOR TRIPOD M14) .
a. Carrying Case M31 ( fig. 5 ) is used for carrying Tripod M14,
and for storing it when not in use . The Carrying Case M31 is of
canvas construction with a stiff leather reinforcement at the back and
on the bottom . The stiff leather top swings on a leather hinge and is
fastened by a strap and snap fastening. Leather shoulder straps are
provided for carrying the case and its contents.
10. CARRYING CASE M27 (FOR TELESCOPE M49) .
a. Carrying Case M27 ( fig. 7 ) is used for transporting Observa
tion Telescope M49 and affords protection for the telescope when the
latter is not in use . It is an all-leather case , lined with a felt-like pad
ding. It measures approximately 4 inches across and is 15 inches long.
The Telescope M49 fits into the case with the front end down, making
 TM 9-1556
10-11
DESCRIPTION

CASE, CARRYING , M42

-CASE,CARRYING , M22

ou
RA PD78129

Figure 7 — Carrying Case M27 for Observation Telescope M49

and Carrying Case M42 for Tripod M15
a snug fit which requires no means other than the cover for securing
the instrument in the case. A leather cover cap fits over the top of
the case and is secured by a strap. Shoulder straps are also provided
for carrying the case and its contents.

11. TRIPOD M15 ( FOR TELESCOPE M49 ) .

a.
The Tripod M15 provides a rest for the Telescope M49 and
steadies it when in use. The telescope rests in the cradle and is held
in place by a leather strap ( fig. 4 ) . With the folding legs of the tripod
fully extended, the eyepiece of the telescope is approximately 11
inches above the surface upon which the tripod rests. With this
tripod , the telescope can be swung around to any desired position.
An elevating screw is also provided for elevating or depressing the
forward end of the telescope as necessity requires.
b.
The main assemblies of Tripod M15 are the cradle assembly
and the leg assembly. These two assemblies are joined by means of
the cradle support shaft which extends through the collar in the leg
assembly
C. The Tripod M15 folds into a compact unit and fits into a
carrying case for ease and convenience in transportation.
7
TM 9-1556
12-15
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

12. CARRYING CASE M42 (FOR TRIPOD M15 ) .

a. Carrying Case M42 is provided for transporting the Tripod
M15 ( fig. 7 ) and for storing it when not in use. This carrying case
is of canvas construction with leather reinforcements. Snap fasteners
are used to secure the cover flaps. Leather shoulder straps provide
a convenient means for carrying the case and its contents.

Section III

BASIC INSPECTION

13 . PURPOSE OF INSPECTION .
a. Inspection is made for the purpose of determining the condi
tion of the instrument, whether repairs or adjustments are required ,
and the action necessary to place the instrument in serviceable con
dition .

14. INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS.

a.
Observation telescopes should be checked for :
Name plate data
Completeness
Appearance
Sealing
Condition of paint
Condition of lenses
Smoothness of operation of focusing mechanism
Parts not too loose or too tight
Tilt of image
Clarity and definition of images
Condition of carrying cases

15. BASIC INSPECTION OF OBSERVATION TELESCOPES .

a. Record the serial number from the name plate. The name
plate is located on the housing ( figs. 11 and 17 ) .
b. Examine the telescope for completeness, appearance, condi
tion of paint, and for broken parts. See that set screw openings are
properly sealed .
C. Shake the telescope and listen for rattles or other sounds that
would indicate loose parts.
 TM 9-1556
15-18

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

d . Check the operation of the focusing mechanism to determine

that it functions smoothly and that parts are not too tight.
e. Check the covers and the eyepiece cover caps for ease of
application and removal. Examine for damaged threads and de
termine whether they seat properly.
f. Look into the telescope and examine the optical elements for
signs of breakage, dirt, grease, moisture, and deterioration of adhesive
balsam in the compound lenses. Defects of this nature can be seen by
looking through the objective end of the telescope.
g. The image should appear sharp and clear, and should be up
right when the telescope is in normal operating position .
h. Examine the carrying cases for open seams, broken stitches,
deteriorated elastic, torn or frayed straps and strap loops, defective
fasteners, broken snap rings, etc.
16. ACTION TO BE TAKEN.
a. Instruments found defective must be repaired or adjusted to
make them serviceable. Defects noted and action to be taken must
be entered on the inspection form (0.O.F. 7229 ) . The action to be
taken will be governed by the facilities available.

Section IV

GENERAL MAINTENANCE
17. TOOLS .
a.
Tools for the accomplishment of maintenance described in this
manual may be found in the instrument repair kit furnished to ord
nance companies.
18. CLEANING AND PRESERVING MATERIALS .
a. Lubricants.
GREASE, lubricating, special ( for all lubrication where grease is
required )
OIL, lubricating, for aircraft instruments and machine guns ( for all
lubrication where oil is required )
h. Cleaning Materials.
ALCOHOL, ethyl, grade 1 ( for cleaning optical parts )
BRUSH, artist, camel's hair ( for removing dust and lint from optics )
PAPER, lens tissue ( for cleaning polished glass surfaces )
SOAP, liquid, lens cleaning
SOLVENT, dry cleaning ( for cleaning metal components )
TM 9-1556
19-20

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE - OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

19. CARE OF OPTICAL PARTS .

8 . To obtain satisfactory vision with Telescopes M48 and M49
it is necessary to keep the lenses clean and dry. Care must also be
exercised in handling the telescopes to prevent damage to, or dis
arrangement of, the optical system . The instruments should not be
jarred or handled roughly, and under no condition should they be
dropped .
b. Under ordinary conditions, lenses can be cleaned sufficiently
with lens tissue paper. If there is dust on the lenses, remove it by
brushing lightly with camel's hair artist brush, and tap the brush
against a hard body to knock out small particles of dust that cling
to the hairs. Repeat until all dust is removed . Do not attempt to
clean or wipe the lenses with the fingers or a cleaning cloth ; and
under no conditions will polishing liquids, pastes, or abrasives be used
for cleaning polished lenses.
To remove oil or grease from the lenses, apply liquid lens
cleaning soap with a piece of lens tissue paper. Wipe off and polish
with another piece of tissue.
d. When liquid lens-cleaning soap is not available, ethyl alcohol
may be used for cleaning the lenses. It is important to use the alcohol
very sparingly , as it reacts on the cement used to hold the lenses to
gether and will damage the lenses unless used sparingly and wiped
off quickly. Apply ethyl alcohol with a camel's hair artist brush , and
wipe dry with a piece of lens tissue paper.
e . When ethyl alcohol is not available, breathe heavily on the
lens to moisten and wipe dry as directed above. Repeat the operation
several times until all traces of oil have been removed .

20. CARE OF MECHANICAL PARTS .

To obtain satisfactory functioning of the mechanism in Tele

scopes M48 and M49, the mechanical parts should be kept clean and
lubricated if necessary. When assembling the parts, apply special
lubricating grease sparingly to the threads, but take care that grease
does not get on the lenses. An occasional light application of grease
to the threads in the focusing nut and focusing sleeve, and to the
adapter in the focusing mechanism will help to keep the instruments
functioning properly.
(1) OIL , lubricating, for aircraft instruments and machine guns,
is to be used on ball and socket joints of Tripods M14 and M15, and
for screw threads in leg, cradle, and collar assemblies of Tripods M14
and M15 .
10
i

TM 9-1556
21.23
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

21 . ROUTINE CLEANING DURING DISASSEMBLY .

a. All parts which have been removed from the instrument should
be carefully cleaned before assembly.
(1) Optical elements should be cleaned with liquid lens -cleaning
soap. If this is not available , use ethyl alcohol as an alternative. Care
must be exercised to prevent alcohol from coming in contact with
the edges of compound lenses as the lens cement is soluble in alcohol.
If pencil marks have been placed on the unpolished surfaces of lenses
or prisms, avoid removing them to prevent difficulty when assembling.
Polish the optical element with lens tissue paper. Remove dust and
dirt with an air bulb and a clean, small camel's hair artist brush .
( 2 ) Metal components should be cleaned in dry -cleaning solvent
applied with a stiff -bristled brush. NOTE : The solvent is highly in
Aammable. Take proper precautions when using or handling it. Also ,
the solvent should be changed frequently, so it will not become satu
rated with dirt. CAUTION : Do not clean metal components in dry
cleaning solvent when the optical elements have not been removed.
22. SEALING .
1

a. When replacing the eyepiece and objective cells in telescopes,

apply a very light film of grease to the threaded part of the cell. The
The grease film facilitates assembly and is effective in sealing the
telescope. There should be just enough grease to make the joint air
tight and moisturetight, but not enough to overrun onto the lenses.
b. When replacing the objective lens or the eyelens in their cells,
use black Navy sealing compound to form a seal between the lens
and the cell. If necessary, soften the black Navy sealing compound
by warming with the hands. Then roll the sealing compound into a
fine, thread-like piece and apply it around the flange in the cell upon
which the lens will rest.
c.
Plug the recesses above the various adjusting screws, etc., with
plugging cement of the same color as the instrument. Smooth the
cement to hide the openings as completely as possible.

Section V

DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

23 . GENERAL .
a. To preserve the parts of the instrument, it is necessary to exer
cise care and close attention during disassembly, cleaning, and adjust
ment. The extent of disassembly for any given repair job is determined
by the repairman when he makes his inspection.
11
TM 9.1556
23-24

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

b. All optical elements and metal components should be care

fully marked or tagged as they are disassembled to ensure correct
positioning in the instrument on reassembly. If parts are not so
marked or tagged . considerable difficulty may be encountered in the
final assembly. Reference marks should be scribed when deemed
advisable. An indelible pencil or diamond may be used for marking
on unpolished surfaces of optical elements. Metal components may
be scribed , marked , or tagged .
c. Defective parts should be replaced from stock. Replacement
of defective optical elements must be carefully checked inasmuch
as replacement of even one optical element may change the optical
characteristics of the telescope and render readjustment necessary.
Replacement of metal components is easily accomplished since the
components are all standardized and available as replacements.
21. DISASSEMBLY OF OBSERVATION TELESCOPE 1.18 .
a. Disassembly of Focusing Mechanism .
(1) Remove the eyepiece cover cap ( fig. 8 ) . Carefully unscrew
the eyepiece assembly ( fig . 8 ) and wrap it in clean tissue paper.
(2) Unscrew the focusing nut locking screw A204670 ( fig. 8 ) .
Unscrew the eyepiece focusing nut sleeve A 204664 ( fig. 10 ) from
the focusing nut. Unscrew the focusing nut from the eyepiece focusing
nut tube A 204667. Remove the ball and spring from its recess.
(3) Unscrew the focusing tube ( fig. 8 ) from the prism housing.
Slide of the focusing sleeve .
h. Disassembly of Eyepiece Assembly.
( 1 ) Unscrew the retaining ring ( fig. 9 ) . See figure 8 for com
ponents of Observation Telescope M48 .
( 2 ) Hold the eyepiece assembly , with the field lens down, and
gently tap around the edges of the cell to release the field lens. Re
peat the procedure to free the eyelens, tapping more vigorously if
necessary. NOTE : Be careful to hold the eyepiece assembly over
a soft pad or piece of folded tissue when performing this operation. Do
not permit the bare finger or table to come in contact with the pol
ished surfaces of the lens. After removal , wrap the lens in lens tissue
paper and store in a safe place.
c.
Disassembly of Prism Housing Assembly.
(1) Remove focusing mechanism with eyepiece assembly from
prism housing assembly ( fig. 8 ) .
( 2 ) Unscrew the prism housing assembly ( fig. 8 ) from the body
tube.

12
 B177575
---
ASSEMBLY
OBJECTIVE --204070
SCREW BALL_CCAXIA
A204661
TUBE NIE
FOCUSING

TUBE
A204666 =
M204664
SLEEVE 2011
SPRING ASSENE
EVEMENTE

COVER
A
- 204658

2045
CAP

13
C
- lass
ASSEMBLY
HOUSING

MECHANISM
FOCUSING
ASSEMBLY
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

INCHES RAPD
24

Disassemble
M48_Partia
Telescope d
8- bservationlly
OFigure
TM 9-1556
TM 9-1556
24

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

SEPARATOR - A204651
1
LENS - A204649
RING A204650 1

o EYELENS - A204648 CELL - 8172570

RA PD 75748

Figure 9 - Observation Telescope M48 – Eyepiece Assembly

Disassembled

TUBE-A204667 FOCUSING NUT - B177577

BALL - CCAXIA

SLEEVE - A204664 SPRING - A204665 RA PD 75760

11
1

Figure 10_Observation Telescope M48 — Focusing Mechanism

Assembly Partially Disassembled

( 3 ) Loosen screws A204655 ( fig. 11 ) that hold the diaphragm,

and remove diaphragm ( fig. 11 ) .
( 4 ) Remove screws BCGXIEE and washers that hold the prism
shelf assembly and lift out the shelf assembly .
d. Disassembly of Prism Shelf Assembly. Remove the screws
( fig. 12 ) that hold the prism clips in place and remove the clips with
14
 TM 9-1556
24-25
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

the prisms. NOTE : Before this operation, mark the unpolished surface
of the prisms and the adjacent shelf surfaces in such a way that the
original position of each prism can easily be determined
1 e. Disassembly of Objective Assembly.
(1 ) Unscrew the retainer ( fig. 13 ) and remove the sunshade
! which slides over the objective cell.
( 2 ) Unscrew the objective cell ( fig. 13 ) from the body tube
A204666 ( fig. 8 ).
( 3 ) Remove the retaining ring from the back of the objective
cell and gently tap out the objective. NOTE : Be sure to hold the cell
over a tissue pad or other soft surface when performing this operation
to prevent damage to the objective. If the objective does not come out
easily, crumple a piece of lens tissue paper into the cell and , with a
piece of lens tissue paper between the thumb and the objective, gently
push out the objective. Clean the lens immediately after removal,
wrap carefully, and lay aside in a safe place until reassembly.
25. ASSEMBLY OF OBSERVATION TELESCOPE M48 .
a.
To assemble the telescope, reverse the disassembly procedure.
b . To reassemble the focusing mechanism , use the following
procedure :

303

PIN . A 204653

WASHER BECKIC

SCREW.BCOXIBE
SCREW
204633

PLATE
1 A204663
SCREW ,DRIVE,NO . 00
1
SHE ASSEMBLY - C80B56

DIAL HRAGM - 1204652

RA PD 75751

Figure 11 - Observation Telescope M46- Prism Housing Assembly

C80855 Partially Disassembled
15
TM 9-1556
25
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M41 AND M49

PAD - 1204830

SHEU -317574

PRISM A20485
1

Figure 12 – Observation Telescope M48 — Prism Shelf Assembly

C80856 Disassembled

CEL - BI22376

20
NSHADE - A204661
OBJECTIVE
A204662
ANG
A204655

RETAINER - A204660 .

Figure 13 — Observation Telescope M48 - Objective Assembly

Disassembled

(1) Place the focusing sleeve in position so the crimped edge is

next to the shoulder of the prism housing. Screw the focusing tube
into position. Replace the ball spring A204665 on the tube. Place
the ball CCAX1A in its recess ( fig. 8 ) .
16
 TM 9-1556
25-26
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

( 2) Carefully wipe all dust and grease from the focusing nut.
Place a light coat of grease on the threaded surface of the focusing nut.
Carefully slide the nut into position. Screw the focusing sleeve into
the focusing nut and replace the locking screw . Check the operation
of the focusing nut. The lateral movement should be smooth for its
entire length of travel.
All parts which have been removed from the instrument should
be carefully cleaned before assembly ( par. 21 ) .
d. After assembly and adjustment, the various parts and mecha
nisms should be again inspected according to the procedure given in
section III.

26. DISASSEMBLY OF OBSERVATION TELESCOPE M49.

a . Disassembly of Eyepiece Assembly.
( 1 ) Unscrew cover cap A311039 ( fig. 14 ).
(2 ) Remove eyepiece assembly (130787 from prism housing
assembly by unscrewing adapter ( fig. 15 ) .
(3 ) Unscrew stripped eyepiece assembly B180758 ( fig. 15 ) from
focusing sleeve A317071 .
(4 ) Loosen locking screw BCKX3AD and remove focusing sleeve
from threaded sleeve A317068.
(5 ) Unscrew threaded sleeve from adapter A317070. NOTE :
The threaded sleeve is screwed into the adapter from the front and
is unscrewed by turning in a clockwise direction .
(6) Remove stop ring A317067 from front end of threaded sleeve.
exercising care not to damage threads in doing so .
h . Disassembly of Stripped Eyepiece Assembly.
( 1 ) Unscrew retaining ring A317065 (fig. 16 ).
( 2 ) Hold eyelens cell slightly above a piece of soft cloth, or
tissue, and tap lightly to remove field lens A317907 and separator
A317066 .
(3 ) Use same method to remove eyelens A316906, tapping more
vigorously or pushing against eyelens if necessary. Care should be
exercised that the bare fingers or table surface do not touch the lens.
After removal, wrap the lens in a piece of lens tissue paper and store
in a safe place.
c . · Disassembly of Housing Assembly.
( 1 ) Unscrew the housing assembly C130788 from the body tube
A317040 and unscrew the eyepiece assembly C130787 from the
housing assembly ( fig. 14 ) .
17
 317039
CAP 26
TM 9-1556

MECHANISM
,W*FITH
OCUSING
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE

ASSEMBLY
EYEPIECE
03078
P, RISM ING
HOUS
1378 BLY
ASSEM8
ASSEMBLY
OBJECTIVE
BI8756

18
317042
RING

O GO A317949
B
, ODY
TUBE

D
A
)- 31704
COVER

Disassembl
PM49artially
Telescope ed
bservation
-14
—
OFigure
OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49
 TM 9-1556
26
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

RING - A3I2007 SCREW - BOXZAD

RING
1317069

ADAPTER-A312070

SLEEVE - A317068
00 FYEPIECE
STRIPPED
ASSEMBLY
8180758

SLEEVE - A317071

IN RA PD 28133

Figure 15 - Observation Telescope M49 - Focusing Mechanism

With Eyepiece Assembly C130787 Partially Disassembled
(2 ) Remove the washer A317092 ( fig. 17 ) that serves as a dia
phragm , by first removing the three screws A317091 that hold it.
(3 ) Remove screws A317093 and BCFX4AF that hold the prism
shelf assembly C130797 ( fig. 17 ) and remove the shelf assembly.
d. Disassembly of Prism Shelf Assembly .
( 1 ) Make a pencil mark on , or otherwise inscribe, the unpolished
surfaces of the prisms B180726 ( fig. 18 ) and the adjacent surfaces
of the shelf, so that each prism can be returned to its original position
on reassembly .
( 2 ) Remove the screws BCFX3BB ( fig. 18 ) that hold the prism
clips A317094 to the shelf. Carefully remove the pads and the prisms
that are held by the clips, taking care not to chip or damage the
prisms.
C. Disassembly of Objective Assembly.
(1) Unscrew the ring A317012 ( fig. 14 ) from the front end of
the body tube.
(2 ) Unscrew the objective assembly B180756 ( fig. 14 ) from the
body tube A317040.
( 3 ) Remove the retaining ring A317062 ( fig. 19 ) from the ob
jective assembly . Place a piece of lens tissue paper on both sides of
19
TM 9-1556
26

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

the objective and gently push the objective A316908 out of the cell
A317063 . Do not exert too much pressure or wedge the objective in
the cell by exerting more pressure on one side than on the other . Clean
the objective immediately after removal, wrap carefully and lay aside
in a safe place until reassembly.
SEPARATORA / 000
EYELENS - A316906 CELL - BB0759

ol
20
RING - A317065
DENS - A316207

Figure 16Observation Telescope M49 - Eyepiece Assembly

B180758 Disassembled
SCREW - BCFX4AF HOUSINO - C3789

SHELF ASSEMBLY --C130797

PLATE SCREW - A317093

A316397
SCREW
SCREW. DRIVE A317091
0.0738
-7

WASHER --A317092

RA PD
75310

Figure 17 - Observation Telescope M49 — Prism Housing Assembly

C130788 Partially Disassembled
20
 TM 9-1556
26
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

SHELF C

Figure 18 - Observation Telescope M49 - Prism Shelf Assembly

C130797 Disassembled

CEEA2063

RA PD 283

Figure 19 - Observation Telescope M49 - Objective Assembly

B180756 Disassembled
21
TM 9-1556
27-28

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

27 . ASSEMBLY OF OBSERVATION TELESCOPE M49 .

a. To assemble the telescope, reverse the disassembly procedure.
b. All parts which have been removed from the instrument should
be carefully cleaned before assembly ( par. 21 ) .
C. After assembly and adjustment, the various parts and mecha
nisms should be again inspected according to the procedure given in
section III .

CRADLE ASSEMBLY --C80934

LEG ASSEMBLY - C80935

700

Figure 20Tripod M14 — Separated

28. DISASSEMBLY OF TRIPOD M14.
a. Disassembly of the Cradle Assembly.
(1) Loosen the clamping thumbscrew in the leg assembly and
remove the cradle assembly from the leg assembly ( fig. 20 ) .
( 2 ) Unscrew the knurled nut at the base of the cradle with ball
assembly, and separate that assembly from the socket with shaft as
sembly ( fig. 21 ) .
( 3 ) Should the cork disks A205066 ( fig. 21 ) need replacing, pry
them out with the blade of a small screwdriver or pocketknife. Inas
much as the disks are likely to break into small pieces during this
procedure, care should be taken to remove all small bits of cork from
the socket.
22
 TM 9-1556
28
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

PADE
ASSEMBLY

30
SOCKET, ASSEMBLY

DISK - 4205066

Figure 21 - Tripod M14Removal of Cradle With Ball Assembly

From Socket With Shatt Assembly

ANA205070

BALL - A205064

00
WASHER - A205071

WASHER - A205072
NUTM205065

Figure 22 — Tripod M14 - Cradle With Ball Assembly

Disassembled
23
TM 9-1556
28-30
ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

SOCKETA205067

PIN - A205069

SHARE- A205068

Figure 23 – Tripod M14 — Socket With Shatt Assembly

Disassembled

(a) Disassembly of Cradle with Ball Assembly. Drive out the

ball retaining pin and remove the ball from the tripod cradle. When
this is done, two washers and nut A205065 will come off at the same
time ( fig. 22 ) .
(b) Disassembly of Socket with Shaft Assembly. Drive out the
socket retaining pin and remove socket from shaft ( fig. 23 ) .
b. Disassembly of the Leg Assembly. Remove the screws
BCNX2CH that hold the legs to the head ( fig. 24 ) . Remove the
washers. Pull the legs from the head.
29. ASSEMBLY OF TRIPOD M14.
a. General. To assemble Tripod M14, reverse the disassembly
procedure. However, before assembling the tripod, determine whether
the parts are in serviceable condition and replace where necessary .
Special attention should be given to the condition of the cork disks
A205066, socket A205067, and nut A205065.
30. DISASSEMBLY OF TRIPOD M15.
a. General. Tripod M15 comprises three subassemblies : cradle
assembly, collar assembly, and leg assembly. To break the tripod
down into these subassemblies : Remove thumbscrew A7575962.
Loosen the clamping thumbscrew in the leg assembly, and remove
the cradle assembly from the leg assembly. Loosen the thumbscrew
in the collar assembly and slide that assembly off the cradle assembly
shaft ( fig. 25 ) .
24
 TM 9-1556
30

DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

THUMBSCREW 2050 HEAD B200

O O WASHER - A203074
O
SCREW BCNXXCH
IEC 205023

Figure 24 - Tripod M14 — Leg Assembly - Partially Disassembled

CRADLE ASSEMBLY --C2669716

COLLAR ASSEMBLY --B7633320

LEG ASSEMBLY_07689712

THUMB SCREW
A2575962

RAPD 73032

Figure 25 – Tripod M15 — Partially Disassembled

25
TM 9-1556
30-31

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE - OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

b. Disassembly of the Cradle Assembly. Remove nut and lock

washer from end of bolt A7575950. Drive out the bolt and remove
washer A7575951 ( fig. 26). Take out the elevating thumbscrew
A7575956. Take off the cradle, at the same time removing the com
pression spring from between the arm and the cradle. Take out screw
BCFX2AD and remove the fork that it holds. Drive out the taper
pin that secures the tube to the arm and remove the tube.

31. ASSEMBLY OF TRIPOD M15.

a.
General. To assemble Tripod M15, reverse the disassembly
procedure. Before assembling the tripod, determine whether the parts
are in serviceable condition and replace where necessary.

26
 TM 9-1556
31
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

PAO 2973934

CRADLEC769718

SOWOCEXZAD WASHER BAXIK

OUD

NEAS79959

WASHER 323951
SPAG - A7523935

ARH82635203

47575930

TUBE- A32597

Figure 26 – Tripod M15_Cradle Assembly_Disassembled

27
TM 9-1556
31

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE-OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

TORX - A7575961

SEREW - BOXIC

THUNOSCREW - 7575939
RAIDLA

Figure 27 – Tripod M15_Collar Assembly - Disassembled

THUMBSCREW
1515959

KOLAJS75930
NE + SCREW -BHXIFC

WASHER AS13951 FOR - A325958

WASHER
DEAN
NULAS595

LEGS203

RAID 033

Figure 28 – Tripod M15Leg Assembly - Partially Disassembled

28
 TM 9-1556
32-34
Section VI

REFERENCES
32. PUBLICATIONS INDEXES .

The following publications indexes should be consulted frequently

for latest changes or revisions of references given in this section and
for new publications relating to materiel covered in this manual :
8. Introduction to Ordnance Catalog ( explaining
SNL system ) ASF Cat.
ORD 1 IOC
b. Ordnance Publications for Supply Index ( in
dex to SNL's ) ASF Cat.
ORD 2 OPSI

C. Index to Ordnance Publications ( listing FM's,

TM's, TC's, and TB's of interest to Ordnance person
nel, OPSR, MWO's, BSD, S of SR's, OSSC's, and
OFSB's, and including alphabetical listing of Ord
nance Major Items with publications pertaining
thereto ) OFSB 1-1

d. List of Publications for Training ( listing MR's,

MTP's, T /BA's, T/A's, and FM's, TM's, and TR's
concerning training ) FM 21-6 .
e. List of Training Films, Film Strips, and Film
Bulletins ( listing TF's, FS's, and FB's by serial num
ber and subject ) FM 21-7

f. Military Training Aids ( listing graphic train

ing aids, models, devices, and displays ) FM 21-8

33. STANDARD NOMENCLATURE LISTS.

Cleaning, preserving, and lubricating materials;

recoil fluids, special oils, and miscellaneous re- ORD 5
lated items SNL K- 1
Kit, repair, instrument SNL F - 206
Telescope, observation, M48 and M49 SNL F - 173

34 . EXPLANATORY PUBLICATIONS.

Auxiliary fire control instruments ( field glasses,

eyeglasses, telescopes, and watches ) TM 9-575
Cleaning, preserving, lubricating, and welding ma
terials and similar items issued by the Ordnance
Department TM 9-850
Instruction guide, the instrument repairman TM 9-2602
29
TM 9-1556

ORDNANCE MAINTENANCE - OBSERVATION TELESCOPES M48 AND M49

INDEX
Pogo L Pogo
Accessories 4 Leg assembly , tripod M14 , dis
Assembly of telescopes. 11 assembly 24
Lubricants 9
C
Carrying case M26 5 M
Carrying case M27 . 6
Maintenance , general. . 9
Carrying case M31 6
Mechanical parts, care of . 10
Carrying case M42 8
Models, differences among 3
1
Characteristics of telescopes
11
Cleaning during disassembly .
ning materials .
Cradle assembly Objective assembly
assembly assembly
tripod M14 . 24 M48 telescope 15

tripod M15 . 26 M49 telescope . 22

disassembly disassembly
tripod M14 . 22 M48 telescope 15
tripod M15 26 M49 telescope 19
Optical parts, care of . 10

Description
M48 telescope 3
M49 telescope 4 Prism housing assembly
assembly 15
Disassembly of telescopes . 11
disassembly 12
Prism shelf assembly
assembly
Eyepiece assembly M48 telescope 15
assembly
15 M49 telescope 22
M48 telescope
M49 telescope 22 disassembly
M48 telescope 14
disassembly M49 telescope 19
M48 telescope. 12
M49 telescope 17
S
Sealing 11
Focusing mechanism , M48 telescope
assembly 15
disassembly 12
Telescope M48
H assembly 15
characteristics 1
Housing assembly , M49 telescope
Rowan
wan

assembly 22 description
carrying case
co

disassembly 17
telescope
1 tripod
Inspection differences from M48 model .
action to be taken 9 disassembly 12
purpose and requirements 8 inspection
30
 TM 9-1556

INDEX

T- ( Contd . ) Page Pago

Telescope M49 Tripod M14
assembly 22 assembly 24

characteristics 1 description
description carrying case 6

6
tripod 5
carrying case
4
disassembly 22
telescope Tripod M15
tripod 7
assembly 26
differences from M48 model 3
description
disassembly 17 8
carrying case
inspection 8 tripod 7
Tools for maintenance disassembiy 24

31
$ 0.8 . GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: - 262-912 /30572
.
9-1
DNA 556
NCE

PIN : 027073-000
RVA
ESCOTM
ENATIO
M48N-
PES
AND
M49 -