NG-MRU886 Grease Monkey

Mobile Support & Repair Unit
Most experienced robot pilots know that the combat theater can change instantly from one moment to the next. There are times when robots and power armors are disabled, but could be right back into the action if only a minor repair could be conducted. Or worst case scenario, the robot or armor can’t get out of the combat zone due to a damaged leg servo, or shrapnel clogging up an intake valve. An NG design team led by Kevin McGoldrick, Mark Muller, Frank Stoesser and Carl Gleba came up with the answer: The Grease Monkey power armor.
A mobile support unit that can conduct quick repairs in the field while under fire. The pilot can be an Operator or work under the supervision of an Operator, but should have at least some basic mechanical and electrical knowledge. These small units are lightly armed and equipped with an array of tools for field repairs. The Grease Monkey itself has the tools and is equipment to repair most everything, from basic soldering and electrical, to unjamming weapon systems, swapping out power supplies, and repairing and replacing robot limbs. Perhaps most importantly, the Grease Monkey power armor gives Operators and other field mechanics better armor protection than a suit of EBA.
The left upper leg has three two gallon (7.5 liter) tanks that wrap around from the front to side. One is industrial grease for lubrication used on robot joints; the second has an industrial solvent that is used to clean parts and remove any kind of organic compounds; the third is a liquid sealer for coolant systems that repairs any leaks in the system. Attached to each tank is a small head that can be used to spray the contents or inject it as needed. A concealed compartment in the right leg contains some common parts for power armors and more can be carried in an oversized hard-shell backpack.
These are not large parts, but rather circuit boards, electronic components, microchips, fuses, and connectors to bypass wires in electric systems or for coolant and hydraulic systems. Often Operators will equip their Grease Monkey with the most common parts needed for the repair of the robots, armor and vehicles they are responsible for keeping in working order.
Built into the fingers are an array of tools and connectors. They can access the computers of different robots and download all diagnostic logs. The Grease Monkey’s computer can provide to the pilot, via the HUD (heads-up-display), a complete schematic of the damaged system and blueprints for repairs and jury-rigging. Damaged areas are indicated in flashing red, and areas of potential trouble in yellow, to get the pilot’s attention. The diagnostic computer can also be used to override various computer protocols inside robots, power armor and vehicles. This is not common, but sometimes necessary.
For instance, the NG-V7 may have a problem with its gyro-balance system and the computer safety system won’t let the pilot move the robot. A Grease Monkey can talk to the computer on the NG-V7 to override that safety protocol allowing a pilot to move again. Of course there would be a the risk of possible consequences, but it is better than being stranded and a sitting duck on the battlefield.
Contained in the arms are jumper cables and a vast array of tools.
Built into the chest are a pair of high-intensity spotlights with shutter-like blinds that open and close to protect the lights from dirt and damage. The helmet is jam-packed with optic systems and sensors, as well as a laser eye for cutting and soldering. Mounted on the right shoulder is a laser torch which can be used from its shoulder mounting which can rotate 360 degrees and has a 90 degree up and down arc of fire, or can be removed and used as a hand tool. Additional tools and parts can be carried in a hard-shell backpack and hand carried satchel.
If the Grease Monkey has a weakness, it is that it has no built-in weapon systems whatsoever, but then, it is not intended as a combat suit. It is a support unit operating with other combat units which need to provide it protection. A handheld energy rifle is often carried into combat by the Grease Monkey, and an energy pistol and Vibro-Knife are usually worn on a belt at the waist. It also comes with two UELs (Universal Energy Links), one in each hip, to replace the standard EClip of conventional energy weapons or tools with unlimited energy (draws power from within the armor itself and eliminates the need to carry extra E-Clips).
The Grease Monkey was an instant hit with both military and civilian groups. It can be found amongst adventurers, combat troops, aboard ships at sea, at military bases, Black Market shops, and working at garages in cities and towns across the continent. Grease Monkeys are also used by independent shops and one- and two-man operations like towing services, where they will come to you on the outskirts of town and even deep into the wilderness to assess problems and make repairs. This is very handy for bandits and pirates who may not be in a position to drag their damaged robot or vehicle into town where the law might ask questions. Wherever a mobile garage or repair unit is needed, the Grease Monkey is likely to be there.

Grease Monkey Power Armor

Model Type: NG-MRU886
Class: Strategic Armored Combat Suit and Mechanical Repair Support.
Crew: One.
M.D.C. by Location:

* Head – 70
Upper Arms (2) – 50 each
Right Forearm Housing – 60
* Jumper Cables – 2
* Air Drill – 2
* Air Grinder – 4
* Air Impact Drill – 5
* Air Hammer – 4
* Vibro-Cutters – 2
* UEL Cables – 6 each
Left Forearm Diagnostic Computer – 30
* Chest Lights with M.D.C. Shutters – 35 each
Air Tank (1, lower back) – 15
Legs (2) – 90 each
* Leg Drums/Tanks (3, left, upper leg) – 16 each
** Main Body – 185

* A single asterisk indicates a small or difficult target to hit. They can only be struck when the attacker makes a “Called Shot,” and event then the attacker is -4 to strike. Note that a number of items such as the jumper cables, drill, grinder, impact drill, hammer and Vibro-Cutters are contained in the oversized right forearm which has several compartments to hold each item, as well as drill bits and other small attachments and tools. Destroy the Right Forearm Housing and they are all lost with it. The M.D.C. for such items noted above apply when the tool is being used and outside the armored forearm.
Destroying the head/helmet eliminates all forms of optical and sensory enhancement, leaving the pilot to rely on his own human senses without any of the bonuses granted to him by the Robot Combat skill. If the helmet is destroyed underwater, the wearer suffers from exposure to deep sea pressure at depths greater than 220 feet (67 m), and takes 2D6 S.D.C./Hit Point damage per melee round and all bonuses are reduced by half.
** Depleting the M.D.C. of the Main Body shuts the power armor down completely, rendering it useless.

Speed

Running: 40 mph (64 km) maximum. The act of running tires out its operator, but at 20% of the usual fatigue rate.
Leaping: The powerful legs can leap unassisted by the leg thrusters up to 10 feet (3 m) high or across. Increase by 30% with a running start. Double the height and length of leaps when assisted by the feet and leg thrusters.
Hover Lift Thrusters (special): Thrusters built into the feet and legs are designed to enable the Grease Monkey to reach the necessary height to work on large vehicles and giant robots. Much smaller thrusters in the legs, knees and hip, as well as under the rib cage and behind the shoulders, deploy as needed to help keep the Grease Monkey from drifting and hold it as steady as possible. This gives the power armor the ability to reach and reload and repair back, shoulder and head mounted weapons and sensors without a ladder, lift truck, or needing to climb across the giant robot or vehicle. In many cases, the one or two Grease Monkeys can reload weapon systems on a big robot in one or two melee rounds (15-30 seconds) without heavy equipment or additional assistance.
On the field of battle and inside robot garages, it is not uncommon to see one or more Grease Monkeys (and perhaps 1-2 Operators carried up by a Grease Monkey) standing on the shoulders of giant robots or walking or hovering along the top of massive combat vehicles and the upper reaches of ships. Maximum elevation is 28 feet (8.5 m) high.
Cat-Like Landings from Heights: The Grease Monkey power armor can drop or leap down, to land without risk of damage, from heights as great as 60 feet (18.3 m). Drops from heights greater than 60 feet (18.3 m) up to 120 feet (36.6 m) are dangerous and not advised. The power armor is likely to take serious damage from such leaps or drops. Roll 1D20 to determine the success of the landing. On a roll of 1-10 the suit hits the ground hard and takes life-threatening damage: 2D4x10 M.D. to the power armor, 6D6 S.D.C./Hit Point damage to the wearer inside the armor, and the operator is stunned for 1D4 melee rounds before he recovers from the fall and is able to take action again. On a roll of 11-20 the pilot takes minimal damage from the drop: 5D6 M.D. to the power armor and 2D6 S.D.C. to the pilot inside, and he loses only two melee actions before he is able to continue to move and take action without further delay. Drops from greater heights inflict double the damage just described under “On a roll of 1-10” and may not be survivable.
Power Jumping and Travel: None. The hover system of the Grease Monkey is designed to raise the power armor up into the air and hold it there stationary to work.
Flying: None.
Water: The armor can swim at a speed of 10 mph (16 km or 8.6 knots increase to 15 mph (24 km or 13 knots) when assisted by its thrusters. It can also walk along the bottom of a body of water at 4 mph (6.4 km or 3.4 knots). Maximum depth is 1,500 feet (457 m).
Note: Though not marketed as an “amphibious” suit of power armor, the Grease Monkey functions well underwater and in an amphibious role. It can go from land or deck-side into water and vice versa without difficulty. It is able to work on ships, boats and submersibles while underwater, as well as engage in acts of sabotage by cutting anchors or damaging the rudder, prop, or hull of watercraft. All of this makes the suit popular among mariners, privateers and pirates.

Statistical Data

Height: Man-sized, 6-8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 m), depending on the size of the purchaser.
Width: 3-3.5 feet (0.9 to 1 m), depending on the size of the purchaser.
Length: 2.5 to 3.5 feet (0.76 to 1 m), depending on the size of the purchaser.
Weight: 356 pounds (160 kg).
Physical Strength: Robots P.S. of 28.
Cargo: None.
Power System: Nuclear with a 10 year power supply, or Solid Oxide and electric models (good for 96 hours/four days per fully charged batteries).
Market Cost: 1.3 credits for nuclear, 975,000 for Solid Oxide and 625,000 credits for electric.

Tools/Weapon Systems

1. Multi-Tool (Right Arm): Mounted on the right wrist is a multitool gauntlet. There are different tools in numerous attachments around the wrist. This tool housing spins and extends the needed tool above the hand and can be voice activated or via the minicomputer on the left wrist. The tools that are attached are as follows:
Primary Purpose: Repair tool for power armors and robots, but could be used for just about anything.
Range: Arm’s reach. The tools are all for close work.
Mega-Damage/Effects:

Air Drill: An all-purpose drill. Three dozen of the most common drill bits, screwdriver heads and sockets are kept in a compartment in the right hip. The drill can be used as a weapon, but only does 1 M.D. on a single strike or 2D6 M.D. if held in place for a full melee round (15 seconds).
Air Gauge: Measure the amount of air in tires and other items.
Air Grinder: This is used to file down pieces of M.D.C. metal. It has the potential to do Mega-Damage. One M.D. per strike or 3D6 M.D. if held on a target for a full melee round (15 seconds).
Air Impact Drill: The impact drill is often used to loosen or attach armored panels on robots. Unlike a normal drill, the impact drill provides more torque. It has a dozen different attachments. No damage as it uses blunt drill bits such as socket wrenches.
Air Hammer: An air hammer can have numerous attachments on the head. It can be a hammer or chisel of different configurations. It could also be used as a weapon, but only inflicts 1D4 M.D. on a single strike or 4D6 M.D. if held in place for a full melee round.
Air Hose: This is used for putting air in tires as well as emitting blasts of air to blow away dust and grime from machine parts. No damage.
Jumper Cables: Yep, just like the ones you would use to jump (charge) the battery in an automobile. 12 foot reach. Damage is limited to 2D6 S.D.C. as it is not designed to be a weapon. Requires being touched by both cables.
Vibro-Cutters: Essentially Mega-Damage scissors. 1D4 M.D. for a slash or stab. Cutting damage is 2D4 M.D. per melee.

Rate of Fire: Varies. Payload: Unlimited.
2. System Diagnostic Tool (Left Arm): Mounted on the left arm is a minicomputer about the size of today’s net books. It has a small flap that opens or the data can be displayed on the HUD (Heads-Up-Display) inside the helmet of the power armor, or split between the HUD and the screen. Built into the fingers are a variety of connectors and tools for a number of uses. There is also a wireless system for robots, vehicles and armor that have wireless systems, but most don’t for fear of their systems being breached. The system diagnostic tool accesses the main computer and displays all the results of the numerous diagnostic routines that computer systems often run in robots, vehicles and power armors.
This can be displayed graphically and with numerical codes and equations, and written instructions and comments for literate Operators or in spoken words for the illiterate power armor pilot. Built within the left arm are also sensors to detect and measure radiation, heat, electrical currents, magnetic flow and polarity, fluids, and so on.
Special Bonus: Hackers like the computer link and diagnostic feature because the powerful programs make it easier to hack into vehicles, robots and armor. It provides a +5% bonus to the following skills: Computer Hacking, Computer Operation, Computer Programming, Navigation, Radio: Basic, Laser Communications, Sensory Equipment, T.V./Video and Weapon Systems.

Fingerjack: Functions similar to the cybernetic system of the same name. The Fingerjack mechanism plugs directly into communication systems, computers, radios, sensory systems, and diagnostic computers for direct interaction and communication between those systems and the Grease Monkey’s system analysis and assessment computer.
Hand Camera: A digital camera with a macro lens is located on the top of the left hand between the two light nodes. 20x magnification is possible.
Hand Lights: Two small nodes on the left hand are a pair of LED lights used like a small flashlight (40 foot/12.2 m range, but best at close range).
Laser Finger with Three Settings: 1D4x10 S.D.C., 1D4 M.D. and 2D4 M.D. Range: 10 feet (3 m). Payload: Unlimited.

3. Precision Laser Torch (Shoulder): Mounted on the right shoulder is a laser torch for soldering and cutting. It can rotate 360 degrees (which means it can fire forward and backward without the armor needing to turn) and has a 90 degree up and down arc of fire, or can be removed from its swivel mounting for use as a handheld tool.
Primary Purpose: Soldering and Cutting Tool.
Secondary Purpose: Emergency Defense.
Range: 100 feet (305 m).
Mega-Damage: Five Settings: 2D6 S.D.C., 1D6x10 S.D.C., 1D4 M.D., 2D4 M.D. and 2D6 M.D. per single shot.
Rate of Fire: Each single blast counts as one melee attack.
Payload: Effectively unlimited for nuclear and Solid Oxide models, 100 full M.D. blasts for electric battery.
4. Handheld Weapons and Tools: A handheld NG side arm (energy pistol) and Vibro-Knife (1D4 M.D.) are a standard part of the Grease Monkey’s gear. Additional heavier weapons such as an energy rifle, shotgun, etc. may be carried by the wearer of the power armor, but nothing that requires two hands, and nothing too heavy. This is not a combat suit. Equipment may be carried on one or two belts around the waist, or in a carrying bag or backpack.
Rifles with a strap can be slung over the shoulder.
Additional tools, parts, and components are carried inside the oversized hard-shell backpack (two and a half times larger than the standard EBA hard-shell backpack) that hooks to the back of the armor, as well as in one or more hand carried satchels and cases.
5. Hand to Hand Combat: Rather than use a weapon, the pilot can engage in Mega-Damage hand to hand combat. See Basic or Elite Ground-Based Power Armor Training on page 351 or 352 of Rifts® Ultimate Edition.

Damage is based on the Robotic P.S. of 28.
Restrained Punch – 1D4 M.D.
Full Strength Punch – 1D6 M.D.
Power Punch – 2D6 M.D., but counts as two melee attacks.
Kick – 2D4 M.D.
Leap Kick – 2D8 M.D., but counts as two melee attacks.

6. Sensor Systems and Features of Note: All the features common to power armor, plus the following.

a) Basic Sonar: Can identify and simultaneously track up to 36 different targets for underwater operation. Range: 20 mile (32 km) diameter (a 10 mile/16 km radius) around the Grease Monkey when it is underwater.
b) Depth Gauge & Warning System: The Grease Monkey has a depth gauge and alarm that warns the operator when he is reaching the depth limit, starting at 1,300 feet (396 m). A red warning and audio alarm both sound and an automated voice counts down the depth as the armor slides deeper into the abyss.
c) Helmet Light: Located in the forehead of the armor is a head lamp that functions like a miner’s helmet light or flashlight. 100 foot (30.5 m) range.
d) Helmet Multi-Optics System: The helmet contains a wide range of optical enhancements: Passive nightvision (light amplification; range 1,600 feet/488 m), infrared optics (can see in total darkness and through smoke, however, an infrared light beam is emitted which can be seen by others with the ability to see the infrared; range 1,600 feet/488 m), ultraviolet vision (can see the ultraviolet light used by some security systems; 400 foot/122 m range), binocular telescopic sight (2 miles/3.2 km range), macro-
magnification (x20 for close work and repairs), and built-in digital camera that can store 100 hours of video and take 4,000 still pictures; camera has the same telescopic and macro features for distance and close images. All are perfect for spy work and surveillance.
e) Helmet Searchlight (5 M.D.C.): Mounted on the top of the head is a small searchlight for an additional or more narrowly focused beam like that of a flashlight. It points wherever the wearer of the suit looks and has a range of 300 feet (91.4 m).
f) High-Intensity Lights (2 in Chest): These are very bright lights for work in the dark and to clearly see inside the machines the operator of the armor is working on. Protective M.D.C. shutters close to protect the lights when they are not needed.

NG-MRU886 Grease Monkey