TM 10-8400-203-23
24-6. REPAIR OF BODY ARMOR PROTECTIVE TROUSERS - Continued
Table 24-2. Stitching Instructions for Protective Trousers
LOCATION
STITCH TYPE
THREAD
STITCHES
NEEDLE/BOBBIN
(per inch)
General
301
E
E
8-10
Bartack
Bartack
E
E
28 per tack
Overedge
502-503
E
E
6-8
Label
301
E
E
9-11
Hook and loop fastener tape
301
E
E
9-11
Overedge ballistic insert
502, 503, 504, or
E/F
E/F
6-8
505
Sewing ballistic inserts into the shell
301
F
F
6-8
components
Sewing inner or outer shell
301
E
E
9-11
Assemble wide and narrow upper leg
301
E
E
9-11
and lower leg strap
Assemble shoulder pad
301
E
E
9-11
(b)
Open seams and broken stitches in the outer shell not exceeding 3 inches in length or diameter may
be repaired by machine sewing. Seam and stitching repairs may be applied to all parts of the
protective trousers and must be comparable to the original construction as specified in Table 24-2.
(c)
Adjust thread tension so that there will be no loose stitching which could result in puckering of the sewn
material. When restitching an open seam or when the thread breaks during normal stitching,
backstitch not less than 3/4 inch. For stitch type illustrations refer to FED-STD-751. In general,
stitching will be performed with nylon Type I, Class B conforming to V-T-285 or V-T-295. All threads
visible on the exterior of the trousers will be Camouflage Green 483. Thread size shall be as specified
in Table 24-2.
CAUTION
Avoid damage to the ballistic inserts during stitching operation.
Lay Inserts on flat surface and prevent folds in the material.
Damage to the Inserts will degrade their protective capacity
.
(2) Outer Shell Replacement. The outer shell, including the hook and loop fastener tape, may be replaced it is
badly tom, worn or damaged. If the protective trousers exhibit holes or tears, seam openings or frayed areas
larger than 3 inches, or the hook and loop fasteners are inoperative, replace the entire shell section by
removing the ballistic inserts (refer to Paragraph 24-6.d.(1).(a)). Cut material for new outer shell to
dimensions specified in Table 24-3. Sew as specified in Table 24-2. If the outer shell is to be removed and
replaced, it is important that the label containing the size, National Stock Number, and cleaning instructions
be retained and stitched to the new shell. Check the ballistic insert size markings for legibility and remark if
necessary. If the label is illegible, replace it with a new one.
Change 8 24-8
