Originally Posted by
Stribeck
In the original NY Times article (nytimes.com/2020/01/05/business/boeing-737-max.html), there is another pretty remarkable statement that Reuters didn't include:
"Boeing also recently told the F.A.A. that it had discovered a manufacturing problem that left the plane’s engines vulnerable to a lightning strike.
While assembling the Max, workers at Boeing’s Renton, Wash., factory had ground down the outer shell of a panel that sits atop the engine housing in an effort to ensure a better fit into the plane. In doing so, they inadvertently removed the coating that insulates the panel from a lightning strike, taking away a crucial protection for the fuel tank and fuel lines. "
Can anyone explain exactly what this really means? Have they been using manual powertools to grind down components that doesn't fit during final assembly?
This thread and included links should explain what you are asking
787 Lightning strike issues v FAA