Rare M31 & M32 Tank Recovery Vehicles of WW2

Tank recovery vehicles are specialized armored vehicles designed to recover, repair, and salvage damaged or disabled tanks on the battlefield. This included towing tanks that had broken down, become stuck, or been damaged in combat. This ensures they can be repaired and returned to service as quickly as possible.

Field Maintenance: Tank recovery vehicles were equipped with tools and equipment necessary for basic field maintenance and repairs on tanks. They could perform tasks such as replacing damaged tracks, repairing minor mechanical issues, or conducting temporary fixes to get tanks back into action.

Salvage Operations: In addition to recovering tanks, the M31 and M32 were also used for salvage operations. This involved retrieving valuable equipment and supplies from damaged or abandoned tanks on the battlefield, preventing them from falling into enemy hands or being destroyed.

Transportation: In some cases, these vehicles were used for transportation purposes, carrying supplies, equipment, or personnel to support front line units. Their armored protection and robust construction made them suitable for navigating hazardous environments while under fire.

Recovery of Other Vehicles: While primarily designed for recovering tanks, the M31 and M32 could also be used to recover other types of vehicles, such as armored cars or artillery pieces, further extending their utility on the battlefield.

00:00 - Introduction to the M31
01:37 - M31 crane and winch system
03:54 - Details of the deck and track system.
05:53 - Intro the M32
07:09 - Details of the M32 crane and winch system
13:10 - Detail of the mortars and tools
14:40 - Suspension system & Iterative process that leads to the IDF
18:04 - Conclusion