Originally Posted by
Vilters
On the F-4, all versions, the nose gear was heavy loaded. (Just look at any landing, even with a light aircraft, once the mains touch? The nose drops like a rock even when the chute is pulled early)
To reduce wear and tear on the nose wheel and strut it was advised to lighten the nose ASAP during a full fuel take off and even more so with stores.
Interesting to hear all this analysis . Back in the day , you didn't think too much about things , you just did as you were told , and it generally worked ok . What's that old saying about too much knowledge being a dangerous thing ? Favourite Chick Childerhose quote re guage markings--" green means go ; that's all any fighter pilot should be expected to remember " .
Mind you , in the F4 , it was always a good idea to pay close attention when the instructor told you " when it buffets , use your boots"....