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Description
Published in 1931 (Shōwa 6), the year of the Manchurian Incident, just as motorization was beginning to reshape the Imperial Japanese Army.
Who
Issued under Army Ministry inspection and published by Heiyō Tosho Co., Ltd. It was carried by transport troops, motor units, engineers, and medical detachments as a field-use manual.
Where
Intended for use from garrisons and training grounds in Japan to muddy, unpaved, and snowy routes in Manchuria and North China.
What
Covers both vehicle handling and unit operations:
- Starting, ignition, throttle (old terms: “点火轉把 = ignition advance lever,” “瓦斯轉把 = throttle,” “瓦斯蹠鈕 = accelerator”).
- Shifting, braking, slope climbing, bad-road driving, and night marches.
- River crossings, ferry loading, muddy and snowy road navigation.
- Convoy spacing, signaling, and halts under air raid threat.
- Fault detection, emergency repairs, towing, and inspection routines.
Written in prewar kana/kanji style, showing how Japanese soldiers were taught to drive and maintain vehicles.
Why
To unify procedures for military drivers and ensure reliable logistics. Automobiles became vital for transporting ammunition, food, and medical supplies beyond the reach of railroads or horse-drawn wagons.
How
Step-by-step instructions, from starting a single truck to maneuvering a full company convoy. Includes spacing rules, inspection orders, and methods for crossing rivers or mud.
Condition
Aged toning, stains, wear, and minor tears. Some red pencil underlining and handwritten notes. A true “field-used” manual with period authenticity.
Summary
A rare, original prewar draft training manual that reveals how the Japanese Army adopted and standardized motor vehicles on the eve of mechanized warfare.
Own a piece of history.
Shipping
Worldwide Shipping
International e packet
Delivery Time:
approximate 7-21days(To USA)
With Tracking Number & NO Insurance
International
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to offerding or buying.
