We have recently reported that the Vulcan XH558 had to cancel the remaining flights this year due to the fuel tank issue. Now the management have turned the attention to securing the necessary funding to safeguard not only the immediate future of XH558, but the planning needed to achieve success with the pledge fund campaign within Operation 2015. This is intended to secure sufficient promised funding to enable the flying life extension to become reality. This would then give XH558 the potential for another two full display seasons.
Other than the fuel tank, XH588 is in superb overall condition with on-going maintenance tasks being completed this week. These tasks are defined as out of phase (OOP’s). OOP’s allow system components to be changed or inspected and lubricated on a regular basis, for example; the brake parachute and the 28v battery have to be changed every 28 days whether the aircraft has flown or not. The next program of servicing that the engineers are preparing for is anti-deterioration. This is required if the aircraft does not fly for a set period of time and various tasks have to be carried out every 14 and 28 days. Next week, as part of this, we will undertake engine ground runs.
As XH558 waits for confirmation that the winter service and MOD 2221 (the flying life extension) can proceed, systems like the engines need to be prepared for winter maintenance. For this, the F34 fuel in the engine system needs to be replaced with an inhibiting oil to protect the silver components in the CMFS – Chassis Mounted Fuel System – (the Carburettor), which are vulnerable to deterioration if left to soak in F34 fuel. The engineers will complete this task in late October. For the remainder of the next month or so, the engineering team will be located at the hangar but also returning to Hinckley to help with the bay service of some components and the identification of others for disposal.
If you want to contribute to keep this amazing machine flying click HERE
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
Be the first to comment
Graphic Design, Branding and Aviation Art