From that reality, Major Nguyen Van Dien, a staff member of the Vehicle Statistics Department, Technical Department ( Phu Tho Provincial Military Command) had the initiative to improve the clutch of the BTR-152 armored vehicle, helping to solve the above problems.

Explaining the operating mechanism of the improved clutch, Major Nguyen Van Dien analyzed: “When the driver pedals the clutch pedal, the lever pushes the piston shaft to pump the power steering oil to the hydraulic power steering system through the oil pipes. The oil pressure opens the pneumatic valve. Compressed air acts on the pump diaphragm, pushing the piston rod. From here, the power steering oil (sub-pump) pushes the lever back, causing the clutch opening shaft to rotate at an angle and act on the open bearing, the clutch friction disc is separated, the torque from the engine to the gearbox is cut here. When the driver releases the clutch pedal, under the effect of the spring pull, the pedal returns to its original position, the power steering oil returns to the valve tank, the compressed air is released, the lever returns to its original position, the clutch combines the torque transmitted from the engine to the gearbox”.

Major Nguyen Van Dien (right) is passionate about his professional work.

For effective application in practice, the upgraded initiative helps the clutch control system of the BTR-152 armored vehicle operate more effectively and safely during use without changing the technical and tactical features of the vehicle. The highlight of the initiative is the simple structure of the equipment, easy to manufacture and install, taking advantage of available materials on the market at reasonable prices.

Major Luong Tuan Long, Deputy Chief of Engineering (Phu Tho Provincial Military Command) commented: “During the implementation of this initiative, Comrade Dien stayed up many nights to research. Whenever he encountered any difficulties or problems, he reported them to his commander and discussed with his colleagues to find solutions. With its useful features, the initiative was accepted by the Ministry of National Defense and is now widely applied throughout Military Region 2 and a number of units throughout the army.”

Article and photos: MAI PHUONG