Section 4: Flight Operations
Filling the Bucket
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual (Version F) 13
Cinch Strap
The cinch strap, located inside the bucket on models 6072-4453 and outside on models 5566-9800, allows
the pilot to reduce the volume of the bucket to a pre-set position. The cinch strap is marked with percentage
settings that denote several load levels. The cinch strap allows you to reduce the volume of the bucket to
lower levels than by straight lifting speed alone.
Use of the cinch strap at minimal bucket volume may result in some loss of the secondary seal because of
the sidewalls of the bucket being more vertical (ideal sealing results from the angle between the sidewall of
the bucket and the valve fabric being close to 90 degrees). It is important to note that the top of the bucket
is always the spill line. The moment that the bucket breaks the surface of the water, it is ready to fly.
High Elevation Operations
In some areas, fire conditions require the reduction of bucket loads to accommodate weight restrictions
caused by high elevation operations. In these circumstances, a smaller bucket or the use of a Bambi bucket
with an Aqualanche valve or a Torrentula valve should be considered.
Important Note
Varying the speed of the lift is often the best way to adjust volume. This allows the pilot to vary
the load at each fill to best suit the fuel load and prevailing lift conditions. Most pilots find it takes
a dozen or so fills to get the feel of variable fill action on the Bambi bucket.
Caution
Do not tighten the cinch strap past the smallest load marking. Overtightening can damage the
bucket shell or prevent the valve from dumping.
Caution
The lowest fill setting for all models is 70%. Always check the cinch strap to determine the correct
setting. Otherwise, over tightening of the cinch strap could damage the bucket.
Caution
Snagging the Bambi bucket on submerged objects could result in bucket shell damage.
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