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2. PREFLIGHT SAFETY CHECK
Just as the pilot preflights his aircraft, he should also
preflight his Bambi Bucket each day. Start at the bottom
of the bucket and work up:
1) Check the bottom chain and look for any tears
in the fabric straps; check the lockwire or tie wraps on
the shackles.
2) Check for loose bolts around the bucket shell: IDS
brackets at the top, FCAS (Cinch strap) brackets at the
midpoint, wear strips at the bottom.
3) Check the diagonal “M-straps” that connect the
suspension cables to the top of the bucket and examine
for any wear.
4) Check the purse lines on the dump valve. Frayed
lines should be replaced. Do not wait for a line to break
before replacing it.
5) Check the internal or external Frusto-Conical Arrest
System
TM
(FCAS or cinch strap).
6) Check the suspension cables for frays, kinks or loose
swages.
7) Check that the ballast is securely attached.
Full ballast is essential for safe operation.
8) Check the control head for secure fittings. Never
operate the bucket with the control head cover removed.
9) Pull the trip line cable to full extension from the control
head and check for kinks, frays or loose swages.
10) Check solenoid operation.