As a complement to the proven Bailey M-2 panel bridge, the MGB rounds out our inventory of standard fixed bridges and will undoubtedly see extensive service for years to come. This fact, coupled with the desire to increase the maximum unsupported gap-crossing capability of the MGB, prompted efforts to provide a means of quickly and easily reinforcing the bridge. It never went into production, however, because the system proved unwieldy. The CRS was difficult to construct, and funds for procurement were not available. As construction proceeds, the assembly crew adds the remaining links and reinforcement posts and anchorage.
Light tackle is used to temporarily suspend the links until tension is applied.
Upon completion of the launch, the bridge is jacked down and the tackle released. During the decking and ramping drill, the reinforcement is tensioned using Tirfor jacks attached to the reinforcement post mechanisms. The reinforcement posts are then pulled nearly vertical and pinned. The effect is a slight upward bowing of the center of the bridge, with a portion of the load being transmitted through the links. Construction Time Fairey Engineering contends that installation of the LRS will not appreciably increase building times of a comparable unreinforced bridge.