01/02/2014 No1 Engine goes back into 655

February 1st. saw the No 1 engine back where it belongs, in XM655. Fortunately it was a dry day (unlike the previous Saturday - see the Photo below!), but it was exceptionally windy, with gusts exceeding 30 knots, which meant we all felt the wind chill factor!

Volunteers take shelter under the aircraft during a downpour the previous week.
Image Copyright© Av Magill

Before the engine could be lifted back into the aircraft there were some ancillary components to refit.

Roger and Ben refit the remaining components, whilst Eric prepares the chain hoists.
Image Copyright© Av Magill

With the assistance of 150(City of Oxford) Sqn & 240 (Darlaston) Sqn ATC cadets, the engine was re-positioned under the engine bay.

No1 engine is positioned under the engine bay.
Note the aluminium sheets laid to make the movement easier on the uneven pan surface.
Image Copyright© Av Magill

As the engine is lifted, electrical connections can be reconnected to the engine. This can be a difficult task as there is very little room between the engine bay sides and the engine.

Roger reconnects the electrical connections
Image Copyright© Av Magill

Finally the engine was lifted into its final position. All that now remains is to reconnect the alternator cables, hydraulics and fuel connections, engine and airframe cooling ducts, air systems pipework, engine breather and nose bullet. test the fire warning system, re-position the jet pipe which has to be moved backwards to remove the engine, and refit the end cap, which will be done over the next few weeks.

Almost there!
Image Copyright© Av Magill

The engine will be tested on a ground run sometime in the coming weeks, as arrangements have to be made with the airfield to move the aircraft to a suitable location to run the engines