737NG no.1 Thrust Reverser
 

Hi Guys,

After we just landed and were on a bus from the 777 on the ramp to the terminal, we were waiting at this intersection and I just happen to look at a 737-800 parking (loading up for next flight with fuel and cargo...) and I saw the no.1 (left engine) thrust reverser open (not left open but slide open) and then slide shut after a few seconds and it happened twice. The engine was not running.

This is the second time I've saw this, the first time I saw this was also a 737-800 and also the left engine only (never right, probably just coincidence because its rare to see this). Is this like a check after a overhaul or just to clear ice (probably not because the airport is in tropical zone). Also isn't it dangerous to operate the thrust reverser doors on the ground with the engine not running.

Any 737 pilots out there who know something about this phenomena would be very useful.

Trent

Sometimes cycling the reverser helps clear a fault indication in the reverser system, that's usually the reason for it.

No danger in cycling the thrust reverser without engines running. Just don't stick any body parts in the path of travel.:=

RRTrentSymphony,

Sometimes you will get a reverser light on the overhead panel if the reverser hasn't been stowed correctly after landing. It can happen on either engine, or both.

It usually happens when the reverse thrust lever/s has been moved from the reverse idle position to the stowed position too slowly or even held between those two positions. Sometimes the reverse idle detent is missed when reducing reverse thrust to idle & the reverse thrust lever ends up between the reverse idle detent & the stowed position. This will cause a reverser light to illuminate.

The usual fix for this is to cycle the reverse thrust lever to the idle detent & then back to the stowed position while you are taxing in. Sometimes you have to do this 2 or 3 times to get the light to go out.

Occasionally the procedure won't work & engineering attention is needed. Generally the first thing they will do is try the same procedure at the gate & that is done without the engine running.

Thanks everyone, I understand it now. :ok:
Now I won't be wondering what the pilots are up to.

As Oakape said...

It used to happen to a fella I knew who always went too quickly from reverse thrust to idle, without a decent pause at idle reverse. The NGs seemed to lock in the partial position (reverser light on) and if you arent paying attention, give you reverse thrust when really you want to go forwards. Most alarming

One particular aircraft seemed much more prone to it, as well.