PART III consists of a Stock Number Sequence List (SNSL) and two repair parts cross lists. The SNSL lists the  repair  parts,  arranged  in  National  Item  Identification Number (NIIN) sequence, that were provided in the COSAL to support the assigned level of support   The SNSL also lists all the APL numbers each part is stocked for, the unit price, and the total COSAL quantity. The first list crosses a manufacturer's part number to a National Stock Number (NSN). The second list crosses an NSN, in NIIN sequence, to a part number. Part III is NOT a master cross reference; if the number you are researching is not included in the COSAL, it is not in these lists. Technical Manuals One key to effective equipment maintenance is the availability  of  authoritative  technical  data  and  guides for each unique item of equipment. Within the NCF, this  information  is  supplied  through  the  appropriate operator  manuals,  lubrication  charts,  parts  manuals,  and shop repair manuals.  There are two types of technical manuals: manufacturer’s  manuals  and  specialized technical mantis. It is important for you to understand the difference. Manufacturer’s manuals are published by the various   equipment   manufacturers   (Ford, General Motors, and so on). Also called factory manuals, each book covers equipment produced by that company, usually for a l-year period. Specialized  technical  manuals  cover  only specific  repair  areas. They usually come in several volumes, each covering one specific section (Engine, Transmission, Hydraulics, and so forth). A technical manual is divided into sections, such as general   information,   engine,   transmission,   and electrical.  The  general  information  section  of  a technical   manual   helps   you   with   the   vehicle identification,  basic  maintenance,  lubrication,  and  other general subjects. The vehicle identification (ID) number contains a code that is used when ordering parts.  The ID number identifies the type of engine, the type of transmission, and other useful information  The repair sections of a technical manual cover the major systems of a vehicle. These sections explain how to diagnose  problems,  inspect,  test,  and  repair  each system. To use a technical manual, follow these basic steps: Locate  the  right  technical  manual.  Some manuals come in sets or volumes that cover different repair areas. Turn to the table of contents or index.  This will help  you  locate  the  information.  NEVER thumb through a manual looking for a subject. Use the page listings given at the beginning of each repair section. Most manuals have a small table of contents at the beginning of each section Read  the  procedures  carefully.  A  technical manual provides detailed instructions. DO NOT overlook any step or the repair may fail. Study the manual illustrations closely; they contain  essential  information.  They  cover special tools, procedures, torque specifications, and other data essential to the repair. The technical manuals (TMs) are included in the parts  peculiar  COSAL  of  each  unit.  The  quantity  of TMs is determined in the same way as repair parts. In general, this results in the following number of TMs being provided to the unit:  one copy for each piece of equipment of the same make and model; two copies for two to four pieces of the same make and model; three copies for five to eight pieces of the same make and model; and four copies for more than eight pieces of the same make and model. Regardless of the type of manual, all NCF units are responsible for maintaining, in good condition and in the proper quantities, all TMs listed in the COSAL.  It is important  for  units  to  maintain  inventory  control  of TMs through the use of periodic inventories, check-out procedures, and so on, because replacement mantis are difficult to obtain. Manuals in excess of COSAL quantities must be returned to M3 stock at CBC, Port Hueneme, California. TMs that are lost, damaged, worn out, or otherwise unserviceable, may be replaced by  submitting  funded  requisitions  to  the  appropriate CBC. 1-21