Why You Should Hire A Full Basement Repair Company

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When you need work done on your basement, consider hiring a full Basement Repair Naperville IL company rather than a general contractor. These companies prioritize customer relationships and offer long-term maintenance.

This homeowner was having trouble with water seepage through her basement walls. After installing 126 feet of interior drainage, a waterproof paneling system, and a dehumidifier, she now has a clean, dry basement.

basement repair

Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks are usually a sign of structural damage, but not all cracks are the same. Deciphering which cracks are harmful can save you a lot of money and time, ensure emergent cracks are repaired ASAP, and help you track the overall stability of your basement walls over the long haul.

Hairline cracks are common in poured concrete foundation walls and usually don’t cause a major problem as long as they don’t grow wider or allow water to leak into the basement. They often appear days or weeks after a foundation is installed and are caused by the natural shrinkage of the concrete.

Wider, horizontal foundation cracks are a serious concern and can be a sign of shifting soil and sinking. They can be caused by several factors, including poor construction of the foundation’s footings, moisture problems, or subpar grading.

If you notice a horizontal or diagonal crack in your foundation, it’s essential to get it fixed immediately. The best way to fix these cracks is to use a concrete epoxy injection kit. Start by cleaning the area around the crack, then widen the gap slightly with a chisel or angle grinder to give the epoxy more surface area for better adherence. Then, inject the polyurethane product into the crack until it’s filled, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying. After the crack is filled, paint over it to seal out any remaining moisture and protect the foundation walls from further damage.

Waterproofing

A little water in a basement is normal and acceptable, but too much can cause structural damage and create an ideal breeding ground for mold. Addressing the problem early is key to avoiding more serious and costly repairs down the road. You may be able to waterproof the basement on your own with DIY products, but consider calling in a professional for more complicated solutions like sealing wide or uneven foundation cracks or installing an interior drainage system.

Interior waterproofing keeps moisture out of the basement by applying a sealant to walls or floors. This can be done by professionals or as a do-it-yourself project, but it must be applied after the basement is dry to avoid trapping moisture that could lead to mildew or mold growth. A more permanent solution is epoxy injections that repair cracks and gaps in the concrete walls and floor of the basement.

Exterior basement waterproofing is more difficult and time-consuming, but it can be the most effective. It can be accomplished by removing flowerbeds, lawns, and other landscaping that could direct water toward the house, making sure gutters are working properly, and grading the yard so it slopes away from the home. Adding a sump pump to the basement and sealing concrete surfaces can also help reduce moisture in the basement. The first step is to test for moisture transmission using a moisture meter or vapor transfer kit.

Sump Pump Installation

Sump pump installation is a wise investment for homeowners who live in areas prone to flooding. Even in homes that have never flooded before, frequent rainfall and extreme weather can lead to water damage and other problems. Having a way to move the water away from your home will prevent your basement from getting flooded and help keep moisture out of the walls, preventing staining and peeling.

Your professional plumber will dig a hole in your basement floor to install the sump pit or pump basin. They will then line the pit’s walls with a waterproof membrane to ensure that the drained water doesn’t seep into the surrounding soil. They will also install an exterior discharge line to eject the drained water from your property. This will protect against groundwater seepage and prevent the drained water from putting pressure on your foundation.

Next, they will plug the sump pump into a GFCI-protected receptacle and test it. The float switch in the pump should activate when it reaches a certain level and then turn off when the water is removed from the pit.

A check valve should be installed between the pump and the discharge pipe to prevent the drained water from draining back into the sump pump. Once everything is in place and ready to go, they will cover the hole and the area around the pump with concrete.

Carbon Fiber Reinforcement

Carbon fiber reinforcement is a relatively new solution in the basement repair industry, but it’s a game changer. It’s known for its exceptional tensile strength, which can be used to stabilize and straighten bowing walls and foundations that have lost their structural integrity. It’s also durable and won’t corrode, which makes it the ideal material for basement structural repair.

Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP), or carbon fiber composites, are a combination of two different materials: carbon fibers for strength and a matrix of thermoset plastic, such as epoxy resin, to hold them together. CFRP is used in a wide variety of applications, including concrete reinforcement, where it can be used to increase the load-bearing capacity of existing structures and prevent further deterioration.

It’s also used for repairing and strengthening concrete structures and components, including bridges, tunnels, buildings, and other infrastructure. This type of structural repair is particularly effective because it’s done on-site and requires minimal excavation or disturbance to the structure’s surface.

Our carbon fiber basement repair services are done with extreme care and precision. The experts at our company first conduct a thorough assessment of the affected area to determine the extent of the damage and how it can best be addressed. Then, the appropriate carbon fiber strips are applied to the wall, creating a strong bond that strengthens and stabilizes the wall. The process is fast, convenient, and efficient, allowing us to complete the repairs quickly so your basement can be back in use as soon as possible.

Wall Anchors Or Braces

Wall anchors and braces are used to support bowing basement walls, a problem that occurs when expansive soil puts pressure on the foundation. This pressure causes the walls to curve inward like an archer’s bow and can damage the home’s structural integrity.

The best way to prevent this damage is by securing your basement walls with a dependable wall anchor system. Our expert technicians install these systems by drilling holes into the basement wall and connecting steel rods to anchor brackets on the inside of the wall. These anchors then connect to pins that are drilled deep into stable soil. These anchors transfer foundation pressure away from the basement, halting the walls’ inward movement and straightening them over time.

There are two types of basement wall anchors: helical tieback anchors. Helical tieback anchors are perfect for a basement with limited interior access because they can be installed without excavating the yard. These anchors look like a corkscrew and work by applying opposite pressure to cancel out the hydrostatic forces that caused your basement walls to bow in the first place. The PowerBrace system is custom-fit to the height of your basement walls and secured with a bracket that attaches to floor joists and footings. These galvanized metal beams can be tightened over time to straighten and stabilize your bowing basement walls, preventing further damage and avoiding a costly full foundation replacement. Both these systems are backed by product and service warranties and a transferable lifetime guarantee.

Foundation Replacement

Foundation replacement is typically required when a home’s structural integrity is seriously compromised. This may be indicated by a large number of cracks in the basement walls, doors that are difficult to open or close, gaps developing in trim work, and/or serious sinking or tilting of the building.

When this type of problem is detected, a professional will often develop a plan to reinforce the foundation and reposition the building back into its original position. During this process, the foundation will be jacked up with hydraulic piers that are installed at strategic points underneath the building’s structure. These devices, which vary in size and shape (i.e. resistance push piers, helical piers, or slab piers), are designed to transfer the building’s weight from the unstable soil into the deeper, load-bearing soil or bedrock.

These types of permanent repairs can be the best way to stabilize a house’s foundation but are also the most expensive. This is because they involve digging underneath the home to install the support system, which requires extensive excavation work, and then pumping concrete or helical steel into the ground to reach the load-bearing soils or bedrock. For this reason, it is best to leave the job of repairing and replacing your foundation to a professional who can ensure that the new repair method adequately addresses the root cause of your problem. These professionals are typically able to provide long-term, cost-effective solutions by using engineered steel piering systems that can go much deeper than traditional methods.

Wilderness Essentials: Gear for the Hunt

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Whether it’s your first hunt or fiftieth, the right gear can make all the difference. The hunting essentials you bring aren’t just items; they’re tools that empower your experience in the wild.

Hunting Essentials

Some are practical, like a safety harness to keep you secure in your tree stand or trash bags that can double as ground cloths for game meat after field dressing. Others are crucial to your survival, such as a headlamp and two reserve flashlights. Read on Best Mouth Call Turkey to learn more.

One of the most important items you’ll need when hunting is a knife. This essential tool is used for a variety of tasks including skinning game and field dressing animals. It can also be used to cut rope and help with various campsite tasks, such as preparing firewood or building shelters. In addition, a knife can be used for self-protection and as a deterrent against wild threats or in an emergency situation.

There are many different types of knives available on the market, making it essential to choose a model that meets your specific requirements. Factors such as blade shape, edge type and handle design will all influence your decision. A good hunting knife should be able to cater to your needs without being too heavy or bulky.

The blade shape is an important factor to consider, as it will determine the knife’s intended use. For example, a drop point is ideal for hunters looking to take on large-game such as deer. This knife style features a straight, deep blade that provides the strength needed to carve through tough muscle tissue.

A curved blade, on the other hand, is suitable for small-game and bird hunting. This type of blade has a curved, narrow point that makes it easy to separate meat from bone and flesh. It also works well for cleaning and filleting fish.

Another feature to look out for is a gut hook, which is a special type of knife designed to make it easier to remove an animal’s internal organs. It has a sharpened semi-circle ground into the topside of the spine and is useful for extending an incision made with a standard blade while keeping the organs out of harm’s way.

Aside from the blade shape, it is also vital to select a knife with an ergonomic and comfortable handle. This ensures that you’ll be able to comfortably hold and use the knife for long periods of time, especially during field dressing or when processing your catch. Look for a handle that is made from a durable material such as wood, rubber or leather and has a non-slip surface. You should also look out for a sheath that can be securely attached to your belt or backpack to keep the blade secure when you’re not using it. It’s also a good idea to bring along a knife care kit that contains cleaning and lubricating products to protect your blade and keep it in pristine condition.

Socks

Whether you’re on an all-day elk hunt or just walking from the car to camp, having comfortable feet is key to a good time. If you’ve ever had a blister or sore foot while hunting, then you know that it can ruin a trip. Good quality hiking and hunting socks are designed to prevent blisters, which means you can spend more time on the trail without having to worry about your feet.

Quality hiking and hunting socks are made from a variety of fabrics to create the right balance of durability, cushioning, moisture wicking, and temperature regulation. They are also typically designed to be lightweight, as backcountry hunters carry a heavy pack that places an extra burden on their back and feet. A great pair of socks will have a seamless toe construction that minimizes friction and rubbing, which can lead to blisters. They will also be breathable to help regulate your body temperature.

Many of the best hiking and hunting socks are made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials. This helps to ensure that the sock will be comfortable and lightweight while still providing the warmth and wicking properties of natural fibers. Wool socks are often considered the standard in hunting socks, as they are naturally odor-resistant and warm when wet. However, the wool that was used in socks of previous generations was itchy and thick, but today’s merino wool is both itch-free and very lightweight.

When selecting the type of sock to wear for your next hunt, be sure to consider the time of year. An active hunter will need a light, lightweight sock in the early season, while a more stationary hunter may need a heavier, warmer sock in the late season.

For a great pair of lightweight hunting socks, try the Darn Tough Full Cushion 2012. These are an excellent choice for any hunter as they provide cushion and warmth without being too bulky. They will fit perfectly in your boots and won’t bunch or slip. They’ll wick and dry quickly, keeping your feet cool in the early season heat and warm in the late season snow.

Sunglasses

As a hunter, your eyes are your most valuable asset. Protect your eyes from projectiles and the sun’s harmful UV rays with a pair of shatter-resistant glasses. Choose a pair with polarised lenses to help get rid of glare from snow, water and glass. The polarisation helps you see more clearly and distinguish your target from its environment, preventing visual fatigue.

Look for a pair of sunglasses with a frame made from durable, lightweight materials. These frames will not only offer durability but will also be comfortable for long hours afield. You will also want to find a pair with an adjustable nose pads and temple arms so that you can customize the fit and comfort of your sunglasses.

Sunglasses designed specifically for hunting include features like foam-padding to shield your eyes from dust and debris, a sweat-bar to minimize the amount of moisture that gets in your eyes and a single polarised lens to ensure that you have free, uninterrupted vision in bright sunlight. Choose a lens colour that will suit your conditions, for example green, brown or orange tinted lenses are ideal for bright sunny days while yellow lenses provide superb contrast in low light environments such as dusk or near dawn.

The best sunglasses for hunters have a secure, comfortable fit and will not slide down your face when you’re hiking or scrambling over craggy terrain. Elite eyewear fuses ergonomic design with grip tech, featuring textures on the arms and nose pads to prevent downward slippage. Multiple sizes from small to XXL to suit narrow, wide or oval faces, as well as RX availability for those with prescription lenses, are available so that you can find the perfect match for your facial proportions and hunting pursuits.

A sturdy wraparound style will be a good choice for cold weather, as nylon frames resist fogging better than plastic or polycarbonate. Consider a pair of sunglasses with an anti-reflective coating, as this will further reduce the chances of your lenses fogging up when you are active and sweating. Choose a pair of wraparound sunglasses that will work with your favourite hat to increase the likelihood of them staying put even as you hike, run or duck through terrain.

Headlamp

A headlamp is one of the most important pieces of equipment to carry when hunting. Not only does it provide hands-free lighting, but it also allows hunters to spot game in low light conditions. It’s critical to select a headlamp that offers a combination of features, including brightness, battery life, and beam type. The best headlamps for hunting are versatile and durable. They are designed to be used in various environments and withstand a variety of weather conditions. They should be easy to use and have a long battery life, as no one wants to run out of power in the middle of their hunt.

The Black Diamond Storm is a lightweight, waterproof headlamp that provides powerful lighting for hands-free navigation in the dark. It’s ideal for hunting in dense forests or for hiking in mountainous terrain. The headlamp uses Black Diamond’s Power Tap technology to easily transition between dim and full power, and it features brightness memory. The device also has red, green, and blue lighting options for different environmental conditions.

In addition to brightness, the MH2 is a great choice for hunting because it has several different lighting modes to suit your environment. It has a wide and tight beam, as well as a hidden strobe light. It also has a long battery life and a rugged design that can withstand drops.

Choosing the right headlamp for your specific needs can significantly improve your hunting experience. A quality headlamp will allow you to see your surroundings and avoid obstacles, while also providing hands-free lighting for aiming and handling your weapon. It’s important to select a headlamp that is comfortable to wear and doesn’t disturb your hunting partner. The device should also be easy to operate in the dark, especially while wearing gloves or using both hands for other tasks.

While the Energizer headlamp might not have as many lighting modes, it does offer an excellent combination of power and price. The Energizer headlamp is bright enough to illuminate an object up to 80m away, and it comes with three rechargeable AAA batteries that can last for hours in the low-power mode.

What Does a Plumber Do? Understanding the Role and Responsibilities

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Plumbers install, repair, and maintain the pipes and fixtures that provide water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and washing. They also inspect and test plumbing systems to ensure compliance with local building codes.

Showers and baths would be cold without the plumbing industry, which protects people from several deadly diseases caused by contaminated water. It’s not a glamorous job, but it pays well. Click Visit Our Website to learn more.

Installation

plumbing

Plumbing systems take away waste, provide hot and cold water, and regulate indoor climate through pipes, valves, and fixtures. Plumbers install these systems in new construction and in existing homes and businesses. They may also repair or replace existing components. Some plumbers specialize in a particular aspect of plumbing, such as gas line installation or sewer system maintenance and repair.

Most plumbers learn their trade through a formal apprenticeship, which combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Others attend vocational schools that offer certificate programs in plumbing. A high school diploma or equivalent is required to apply for a plumbing apprenticeship. Many states require plumbers to be licensed, though the requirements vary by jurisdiction.

When installing a new plumbing system, plumbers start by assessing the space and ensuring that it can accommodate the necessary appliances and piping. They then lay down plastic sheeting to protect the floor and surrounding walls from debris and water damage. They then cut into the wall or floor to create a path for the new pipes, making sure not to weaken the framing with excessive force. Finally, they connect the piping and test the system to ensure it works properly.

One of the most common tasks plumbers perform is replacing or repairing sinks, toilets, and faucets. They may also adjust the height of showerheads and other fixtures to ensure proper water flow. When working with a new home, they may need to consult blueprints and building codes to ensure the new plumbing is installed correctly.

Plumbers sometimes work on older, or historic, plumbing systems that may require more attention and skill to repair. These systems may have corroded or broken pipes, clogged drains, or other problems that require unique solutions. When working on these systems, plumbers must be able to identify and repair problems quickly to prevent further damage or leaks. This may require them to use more advanced tools than standard plumbing supplies, such as electrical snakes and hydraulic lifts. These more specialized tools can be more expensive, but they allow plumbers to work on unique or historic plumbing systems safely and effectively.

Maintenance

Plumbers maintain and repair the piping, fixtures, and appliances that deliver potable water and remove waste from a home or business. Their job duties include replacing components, fixing leaks, and ensuring that the plumbing system meets all local codes and regulations. They also inspect and test systems to ensure they are functioning properly. In some cases, they may collaborate with construction teams or architects to ensure that the plumbing is integrated into the building’s structure and design.

Plumbers usually work on residential and commercial properties. Their responsibilities are similar to those of other tradespeople in the construction industry, such as carpenters and electricians. They may install entire plumbing systems for new buildings, or they might focus on a single fixture like a sink, toilet, or bathtub. They also might specialize in specific types of equipment, such as gas lines or medical-grade faucets.

In addition to installing and repairing plumbing fixtures, Plumbers also test and analyze the quality of water at a property. This helps them determine whether there are any issues with the water supply, such as mineral buildup or low water pressure. They might also test for other conditions, such as the presence of toxins or bacteria in the water, which could indicate that the plumbing needs to be replaced.

A plumbing maintenance crew might also clean drains and sewer lines, replace worn parts, and perform other tasks that keep a building’s water system functional and safe for its occupants. They may also help to determine the cause of any problems, such as high water bills or unexplained leaks, and recommend solutions.

Because plumbers work with hazardous materials and high-pressure systems, they must follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries. This often means working outdoors in inclement weather, wearing protective gear, and securing tools safely. It can also mean working evenings and weekends to respond to emergency calls from customers. Many plumbers are self-employed, which can provide flexibility in their schedules and the opportunity to choose the projects that they want to take on.

Repair

When pipes begin to leak or crack, it is important that they are repaired right away. Plumbers use a variety of tools and techniques to repair leaky faucets, toilets, showers, and water heaters. Sometimes, they must remove and replace entire sections of pipe if they cannot be fixed. Plumbers also have the skills and knowledge to install new fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

Many homeowners try to fix their own plumbing issues, but this is usually a bad idea. A plumber has the training and experience to quickly diagnose and fix problems, saving you time and money in the long run.

Most residential plumbing repairs are relatively minor, but if the problem is severe, it can lead to costly damage and health hazards. It is important to contact a plumber as soon as possible when you notice signs of a problem, such as leaking pipes, toilets that don’t flush, or foul odors.

The main sewer line is an essential part of every home, and it’s not uncommon for it to get clogged. When this happens, it is likely that sewage will back up into the home, which can cause serious health problems. If you notice that your home’s drains are backing up frequently, it is a good idea to call a plumber for a sewer line inspection.

In addition to identifying the source of the problem, a plumber will be able to recommend a course of action and implement it. For example, if the problem is caused by tree roots, a plumber may be able to use hydro-jetting or hydro-steaming to clear the line without having to dig up the entire yard.

It is a good idea for all homeowners to learn basic plumbing maintenance and repairs. This can help them save money in the long run and feel more confident about handling small tasks on their own. It is also helpful to know how to shut off the water valves in case of an emergency. Having these skills will allow you to minimize the risk of plumbing emergencies and keep your family safe.

Troubleshooting

Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a clogged toilet, most homeowners will encounter a plumbing problem at some point. Understanding common plumbing issues and knowing when to call a plumber can save you time and money.

While it may seem like a plumbing issue is minor, many problems can escalate into larger-scale repairs if not addressed promptly. This is why it’s important to keep up with routine maintenance and inspections. A licensed plumber can help ensure that your plumbing system is functioning correctly and prevent future problems from arising.

Some common plumbing problems include clogged drains and toilets, leaky pipes, water heater issues and low water pressure. To fix these issues, plumbers use a variety of tools and techniques. A plumber with experience in these areas will be able to identify the source of the problem quickly and find a solution that’s right for you.

In addition to basic troubleshooting, plumbers also repair plumbing systems. This can include fixing broken fixtures, replacing damaged pipes and repairing or installing water heaters. They can also deal with sewer problems, such as clogged drains or backups. Sewage issues can be dangerous and require a professional plumber with the appropriate training and equipment to safely handle the job.

It’s important for a plumber to have good communication skills, especially when dealing with customers. They should be able to explain the problem and recommend solutions clearly and concisely. This will allow the customer to make an informed decision about what to do next.

Plumbers also need to have strong mechanical skills to understand how plumbing fixtures, pipes and appliances work. They often need to read blueprints and diagrams to understand the location of piping, valves and other hardware. This helps them determine where to make repairs and what parts are needed.

While it’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about your plumbing system, there are some issues that should always be left to a professional plumber. This includes clogged or overflowing drains, leaky pipes, corroded fixtures and other serious problems. Trying to tackle these problems on your own can be dangerous and lead to further damage. Keeping up with regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.

The Military Humvee

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Humvee

The Humvee became the icon of half a dozen US military interventions. It moved soldiers reliably over long distances and was instantly recognisable to the public, thanks to Hollywood action movie superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger who had one in his garage with “Terminator” emblazoned on its flanks.

It could also climb a 60 percent slope or ford five feet of water. But it was easy prey for improvised explosive devices. Click the Military Humvee For Sale to learn more.

The History

The military Humvee may be best known to civilians as the lumbering, gas guzzling status symbol that is the Hummer, but it began life a much more practical vehicle. Originally conceived as a versatile modernisation of jeep trucks, the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle or HMMWV (Humvee is a colloquialism) was launched in the early 1980s and quickly became the jack-of-all-trades workhorse the US Army needed.

At the time, the Army had a fleet of obsolete M151 jeeps that were struggling to cope with newer challenges in combat zones in Vietnam and later Afghanistan. The military even tried militarising civilian trucks but these proved to be ill-fitting.

In 1979 the Army drafted specifications for what it wanted in its next light service vehicle. These called for a tough, multipurpose workhorse capable of transporting a large payload and going anywhere on hostile terrain.

The HMMWV would have to be able to cross a 16-inch obstacle at its lowest point, wade through 5-foot deep water (with the proper fording kit) and traverse side slopes that might otherwise cause conventional 4X4 vehicles to topple over.

To counter the growing threat from roadside bombs, the military began by bolting armour plates to existing Humvees. These increased the protection offered to the crews who patrolled cities such as Ramadi and Fallujah, but added weight that slowed the vehicles down and exacerbated mechanical problems.

AM General realised that the key was a basic, robust design without reliance on electronic engine controls and other technologies that could be compromised by malware or jammed by directed microwaves or fry by an electromagnetic pulse from an atomic bomb. Its initial model used a 6.2L Detroit diesel engine that some criticised as being sluggish, but it was a simple, straightforward design that proved ideal for the task at hand.

The Design

Humvees are a little wider than your average Honda Civic, which gives them better stability when driving off-road. This is important, because the Humvee is often asked to go places that a Honda Civic would never dream of going. This includes sand dunes, open meadows and more. The Humvee’s engine is also completely waterproof, so it can drive under water when necessary.

The military used the revolutionary new vehicle in several wars, including Operation Just Cause in Panama and the Gulf War. It also served as the main ground transport vehicle in the Battle of Mogadishu during Operation Gothic Serpent in 1993. The vehicle was so successful that it eventually inspired a civilian version of the truck called the Hummer, which was popularized by actor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

AM General developed the HMMWV after the Army drafted specifications for a light utility vehicle. It was designed to replace the army’s fleet of M151 jeeps, M561 Gama Goats, Ford GPW command reconnaissance vehicles and other light trucks. The HMMWV was much larger than the old jeeps, capable of clearing 16 inches of dirt or sand under its lowest carriage point. It was also able to carry a payload of up to 2,500 pounds.

By the time of the invasion of Iraq, the HMMWV had established itself as the go-to workhorse for front-line soldiers. But as the threat of unconventional warfare took hold, it became clear that the aluminum body of a Humvee might as well be tissue paper in the face of small arms fire and roadside improvised explosive devices.

The HMMWV has evolved over the years to address these issues, but it remains a vital part of the military’s arsenal. The military is currently working on short-term and long-term replacements for the Humvee, including commercial off-the-shelf vehicles that are built to withstand IED attacks.

The Engine

The Military Humvee is a flat-top beast that has plowed through deserts, evaded detection by stealth bombers and jumped whole continents in transport aircraft. But its greatest challenge was on paved roads. This was the only time that a military vehicle was out of its element, and it resulted in the creation of a controversial road-legal SUV with a killer soundtrack and one of the most iconic names in car history.

The Humvee, which stands for High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, has largely replaced old jeeps and other light utility vehicles in the military. It’s also been adapted for civilian use as the Hummer, and it has helped inspire other off-roading juggernauts like the Ford F-150 Raptor.

For years, a six-cylinder engine has powered the Humvee. The original 6.2L and subsequent upgrades have never been particularly powerful. One turbo 6.5L equipped Humvee that was tested on a Banks chassis dyno produced only 113 horsepower and 219 lb-ft of torque – not enough to make you a speed demon or even to get the tank off the ground in a hurry.

But despite its limitations, the Humvee remains an invaluable workhorse. It’s not just cheaper to build than the latest high-tech Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), but it’s also more reliable. And it can carry more cargo and weapons than its modern-day counterparts. It’s financially and logistically impractical for the Army to mount its entire force in 70-ton M1 Abrams tanks, so the Humvee will remain a part of the arsenal for years to come.

The Transmission

The military’s H-Vee — also known as the HMMWV or M998A3 — is famous for its off-road capabilities, which have helped it supplant older light utility vehicles like the jeep. The HMMWV’s ruggedness inspired the creation of the civilian Hummer automotive marque, which became so popular that it even has an enthusiastic fan in Hollywood’s ultimate tough guy, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

While the HMMWV may be getting old by military standards, it’s still a potent off-road machine. It can easily clear 16” of dirt under its lowest point with a payload of 2,500 pounds and a useful automatic transmission. The vehicle can also traverse rocky hills, 60” of water, desert heat and arctic snow with ease, making it the perfect military truck for the most brutal terrain.

Another key feature of the HMMWV is its reliability. Unlike most modern vehicles, which can glitch or go dead when subjected to electromagnetic pulses (EMP), the Humvee is able to keep functioning in these situations. In fact, a former combat veteran doing a test drive with me was impressed that the Humvee would keep driving if we set off an EMP over South Bend.

In order to give the aging HMMWV some extra kick in the back, the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team got an upfit of its vehicles by online heavy equipment auction site IronPlanet. The upfit included a new 700R4/4L-series transmission, along with a high-performance suspension system from race car builder Gale Banks. Banks has built his own off-road racers, including a Ford F-250 with a 700R4 and a GM 4L80E that competed in the Baja 1000. With this nimble upgrade, the Humvee looks more like a modern Jeep Wrangler Unlimited than an abused war machine.

The Armor

A Humvee is a familiar sight to anyone who has watched a military action in the modern era. It was the quintessential battlefield taxi that carried troops around during the Gulf wars and the war in Afghanistan. While the HMMWV is extremely versatile and durable, it had one ongoing weakness that proved to be fatal for many soldiers – it could not withstand roadside bombs.

The original HMMWV was never designed to perform as an armored combat vehicle. Its specifications focused on providing good cross country and road mobility, while keeping its empty weight low. This precluded armor, as it would have increased the vehicle’s empty weight, lowering its overall mobility standard.

However, the soft-skinned HMMWVs began to take heavy casualties from both enemy fire and roadside bombs in the Middle East. Soldiers in the 82nd Airborne and 101st Airborne units were especially vulnerable, as their vehicles often did not offer sufficient protection against 7.62 rounds from an AK-47 and RPGs. They had to rely on sandbags, plywood and cannibalized armour for protection in their soft-skinned trucks.

To solve this problem, the Army began to look at the possibility of up-armoring their HMMWVs. Aberdeen based AM General developed an armor kit called the Armor Survivability Kit (ASK) that included bulletproof windows and doors, adding about 1,000 pounds to an HMMWV. This significantly improved its ability to withstand small arms fire and roadside bombs, though it still could not withstand the much heavier and more powerful mines used in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In the end, the military replaced many of its Humvees with newer, more heavily-armored versions that were able to withstand mines and improvised explosive devices. This new type of frontline tactical vehicle is now known as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, or JLTV. While these newer vehicles are more advanced, AM General argues that it may not be worth it to move away from the tried-and-true workhorse that the Humvee is.