By Kevin Wilkins
The RAF Memorial Flight Club provided members with the first in a series of exclusive updates on the ongoing Major maintenance of Lancaster PA474. Members are kindly requested to keep these updates within the Club and respect the author’s copyright. Lancaster PA474 arrived at the Aircraft Restoration Company (ARCo) facility at Duxford on 31 October. BBMF technicians conducted engine ground runs, inhibited the engines, and then the aircraft was defueled, with oil and coolant tanks and radiators drained. Following this, the Lancaster was weighed before ARCo commenced the comprehensive Major maintenance programme.
Right: All three gun turrets have now been removed from the aircraft. (Photos: BBMF)
One of the initial tasks was the removal of all three gun turrets to inspect for corrosion in the turret rings and other concealed areas. No issues were found, providing reassuring news for the restoration team. All four Merlin engines, along with their associated radiators and oil coolers, have now been removed. One engine will be transferred to BBMF’s Hurricane PZ865, which requires an engine replacement, while Retro Track and Air will supply a recently overhauled engine for the Lancaster.
The aircraft was initially positioned in the ARCo hangar with its tail to the rear to allow crane access for engine removal. With the engines now removed, PA474 will be repositioned nose-first in the hangar, where it will remain for the next twelve months or so. The rudders, fins, tail planes, and tail wheel leg will be removed, and the fuselage jacked in preparation for splitting at the transport joint behind the mid-upper turret. To facilitate replacement of the elevator and rudder control tubes, rear fuselage wiring and piping have been disconnected, and the rear floor removed. Trestles and support frames for the rear fuselage are being provided by the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at East Kirkby. Replacement control tubes have returned from anodising and are ready for installation.
Many of the Lancaster’s access panels have also been removed, cleaned, and inspected to determine if any repairs are required. Further updates on Lancaster PA474’s Major maintenance will be provided exclusively to Club members as work progresses. For more information about the RAF Memorial Flight Official Club, visit www.memorialflightclub.com.
