A much maligned aircraft, normally slagged off by people who were brought up on Mr. Boeings products. But personally, it was a dream to work on, for several years almost every working hour spent either working on them or waiting for them. (BA, Saudia, Gulf Air, Cathay Pacific, Dragon Air, BWIA, Air Canada, Air Lanka, Caladonian, Royal Jordanian, LTU). Spent some time on the RAF Brize Norton's 216 Sqn, in their early forces service, prior to there big mod programmes.
"jobs like Slat PDU changes" being rained on by dripping hyd fluid.
"HP duct connection after an engine", on a good day would fall on in no time, a right bxxxxxd in the early days, but new clamps sorted that out.
"mixer-ejector changes" a samll challange, especially #2, working high above the #2 engine.
" or replacing a pack valve"
"what was that thing called for tracking down overheat loop problems along the pneumatic ducts" Something to do with Fenwal springs to mind
The number 2 engine change, using the bootstrap equipment, cradle up, cradle plus engine down, cradle plus engine up, cradle down, what a joy when the overhead crane and sling was operational.
Regular problem was a down route station unblocking the aft toilets with a broom handle, puncturing the elbow below the throne, everytime the toilet was used the residue was washed onto the aft pressure bulkhead, under C3 bulk cargo compt, then under the C2 floors, for the 8 hour return trip. Just finished the clean up on one and another draged in, exactly the same.
Rebuilding the thrust reverser system after a cable break, blocker door problem or air motor change, shear delight.
Boroscoping the engines, lying on your back a/c out in the open, high above the ground.
Last edited by allthatglitters; 16th March 2005 at 19:56.