XM-104 105mm Self-Propelled Gun

XM-104 105mm Self-Propelled Gun. . In 1955 the U.S. Army established a requirement for a direct support, self-propelled artillery piece that would combine the best features of a light howitzer and a heavy mortar. This new light self-propelled howitzer would also be small and light enough to be air dropped, assault landed in the first phase of airborne operations or carried by helicopter. Using the same Ford engine as the M151 Jeep, it was capable of climbing a 60 percent grade and crossing a ditch 36 inches wide. The XM-104 was developed concurrently with the XM-102 light towed howitzer, which is on exhibit inside the museum. While the XM-102 was placed in production as the M-102 and used during the Vietnam War, the self-propelled XM-104 remained only a prototype. Built in 1963, it was used for experimental and test purposes by the Field Artillery Board until late 1970, when it was transferred to the museum., Caliber - 4.13 in. - 105 mm , Weight - 8,600 lb. - 3,901 kg , Range - 15,310 yd. - 14,000 m , Shell Weight - 33 lb. - 15 kg , Muzzle Velocity - 2,323 ft/sec. - 708 m/sec. , Elevation - (0 to + 75 degrees) - (0 to +1,333 mils) , Traverse - 45 degrees - 800 mils , Rate of Fire - 8-10 rpm - Crew 4 , Maximum Speed - 35 mph - 56 kph , Cruising Range - 300 miles - 483 km , Engine - Ford M151 4 cylinder, in-line, 66 hp , CCN# 108134