RE: http://tech.military.com/equipment/view/88725/m88a1e1-h...cle.html?eq_id=88725

How things change, i was an instructor at fort knox,on the M88, than got orders to germany in 1977. 2ACR recieved the m60a1-a3 tanks along with a M88a1 that served us well. in 1980 i was transferred to schweinfurt germany 2/64 armor and we recieved the m1 tanks , the m88 had one hack of a time towing the m1 tanks and had (ALOT) of problems turning or going down hills.

The article stated that, "The Hercules is replacing the present M88 which is unable to tow the newer, heavier M1A1 tanks." Perhaps this statement would be more accurate if it recognized that although the M88A1 could tow the M1A1 MBT, it could not do so safely.

Another statement in this article may need qualification as well. The following seems to indicate in context an upgrade to or improvement over the M88A1: "The Hercules will possess an auxiliary power unit to operate no-load recovery components and impact tools without running the engine." In fact, the APU is also found on the M88A1, so this feature is common to both the earlier model and the improved version.

As an operator (63F) of the old M88, gasoline engine, I was able to tow 2 m60 series tanks at a time if necessary, even in rough terrain. I dont know the capabilities of the newer equipment, but the earlier M88 was a true workhorse. Long live the "Big Hooker"

was in the 1st cav 1st fsb service/recovery section(unit changed names 3 times while i was there) our 88 had the 1100 hp engine in it the only one on Fort Hood that had it. We pulled m1s all the time by our self felt like you was pulling a 113 behind ya. Before we got 1100hp motor we used two 88s to pull one m1. Broke alot of tow bars. Always used a cucv to spool main winch back up never had a problem with that like the contact units did. Brakes where poor steering hard and had poor track design but i sure miss driving that old beast rode like a caddy.