MAM in the snow

Do you think any of the outdoor airframes are particularly at risk if some work is not carried out to prevent deterioration in the near future? Does the Museum actively recruit volunteers and are there any particular skills or qualifications required to become a volunteer?

You’re asking what I think. I think modern type exhibits should be kept outside in their natural element and have a sufficiency of resources and TLC to keep them free from major problems. I also think that museum exhibits that are kept outside should be painted at least once every 18 months with weekly “touch-up” servicing – even if it’s just a careful squirt with WD-40. The ‘frames should also be capable of having their electric and other systems fired up at least once a month (more frequently in the winter) to get them warmed-up and minimise condensation related and servicability problems. But then what I think counts for nothing, I have no say in anybody’s policy.

As for MAM’s collection . . . as with all museums with outside exhibits the fight against deterioration is on-going, regulated only by resources and available bodies.

If anybody seriously wants to volunteer to help out at any aviation museum I’m sure that there would be no problems, all you need to do is turn up on a fairly regular basis.

.

Does whom great credit?

MAM yes. But Malcolm and Gordon in particular. Was present most of the time XF382 was undergoing its re-paint and mini refurb, even contributed a bit to the scheme (as did our inimitable Albert). Saw nobody else but these two blokes working on it – before or since. It was not only the paint-job that was up-lifted, a fair amount of “containment” work was done on the systems and airframe as it was in a mess (including fixing the gyro gun-sight).

This ‘frame will now survive another winter outside thanks to the work of these two blokes, survive and look good for next year’s ceremony (if the plan comes together).

(Pic shows Gordon with 382)

Les.

Not wishing to tread on anyone’s toes here. I did credit all the Museum staff and volunteers. I may visit regularly but I don’t actually know anyone so don’t know who specifically does what in terms which type of work they carry out on which airframe.

Do you think any of the outdoor airframes are particularly at risk if some work is not carried out to prevent deterioration in the near future? Does the Museum actively recruit volunteers and are there any particular skills or qualifications required to become a volunteer?

I am genuinely impressed by the work which goes on there. Something new seems to be happening all the time and from the visitor’s point of view I think that is very important. it’s a friendly, relaxed, Museum which does everyone connected with it enormous credit.

Regards,

kev35

As promised here are my pics from my last visit to MAM, see if you can work out when it was, it must have been at least 10 years.

curlyboy

And cared for it is….. XF382 certainly does you great credit.

Does whom great credit?

MAM yes. But Malcolm and Gordon in particular. Was present most of the time XF382 was undergoing its re-paint and mini refurb, even contributed a bit to the scheme (as did our inimitable Albert). Saw nobody else but these two blokes working on it – before or since. It was not only the paint-job that was up-lifted, a fair amount of “containment” work was done on the systems and airframe as it was in a mess (including fixing the gyro gun-sight).

This ‘frame will now survive another winter outside thanks to the work of these two blokes, survive and look good for next year’s ceremony (if the plan comes together).

(Pic shows Gordon with 382)

The last time i visited was about 10 years ago i think, i have found my pics from then i will scan them in and post them tomorrow, i definately must go again soon.

curlyboy

“Volunteer at Midland Air Museum, Coventry, UK since 1994 caring for ex 1TWU Hawker Hunter F6A “XF382″”

Pete B.

And cared for it is….. XF382 certainly does you great credit. If you come out the building by the Vulcan and then turn left it really does look striking.

I think great credit is due to all the staff and volunteers there. It certainly is a friendly place and I really like the fact that work is not only being done, it is seen to be being done.

Regards,

a regular, and very satisfied visitor.

Thanks hunterxf382 Does the phantom still carry its kill in this scheme do you know ?, it did when it was in ADF grey, The other phantom used to be next to the perimeter fence with a kaman huskie last time i went, i have pic of it somewhere.

I really need to go to MAM next year it has obviously been too long since my last visit.

curlyboy

Yep the Phantom does indeed still have it’s Mig Kill marking on port side…..

Wow, how long ago was your last visit….lol :diablo: The Huskie has been inside the “Robin” hanger for a few years now, under restoration!!!
Looks like you will be gobsmacked when you visit next then… what with all the additions and changes, etc…..
Never a dull moment at the friendliest Museum going…. (he says with just a hint of bias given his volunteer status there….lol)

Hope you enjoy it…..

Pete B

Thanks hunterxf382 Does the phantom still carry its kill in this scheme do you know ?, it did when it was in ADF grey, The other phantom used to be next to the perimeter fence with a kaman huskie last time i went, i have pic of it somewhere.

I really need to go to MAM next year it has obviously been too long since my last visit.

curlyboy

curlyboy,
One of MAM’s Phantoms is in its Vietnam colours, and the other is in bits away from the main aircraft park (think its just used for spares)
Hope this helps,
TMN

The “Mig Killer” Phantom was repainted in authentic Vietnam colours some years ago (2002) I reckon from my archives…. The other Phantom was the first to arrive at the MAM having been ‘chopped’ by the US Air Force for it’s road move with a chainsaw 😮 through the wings…. Not the best way to transport it, so the Museum was lucky to get hold of the “Mig Killer” one from Upper Heyford and transport it by our own methods which involved removal of the outer wing sections to bring it within the transport limits etc….. The chopped one is just too much work to repair given that we have a complete example, but it’s not really a ‘spares ship’ – just in deep store for now… :rolleyes:

Rlangham,
I think it was a case of ‘In the right place at the right time’ plus I got talking to them about it as I have a friend who is fascinated by them after he got to try one at the Ashburton Aviation Museum in New Zealand. But saying that, they are a very friendly group, and if they realise you are genuinely interested, who knows….?
Must say it was an interesting experience trying to keep it straight and level !

Can anyone try out the Link Trainer? Would be interested in that! Great pics by the way

Thanks TMN – i get to look at your great pics…. in the warm!

TT

curlyboy,
One of MAM’s Phantoms is in its Vietnam colours, and the other is in bits away from the main aircraft park (think its just used for spares)
Hope this helps,
TMN

Has MAM repainted their F4C ?, i posted in another thread but got no answer, if so i will have to go and have a look, great pics.

curlyboy

Very nice pictures there. I bet they will all look like they are covered in snow today 😀

James B

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