Dutch Connie update (21/04/2004)

Another update from the Aviodrome museum. As always the text is only available in Dutch so here is my translated version:

Update April 20th 2004.
The final moment is getting closer and closer. Connecting all the cockpit wiring is regrettably taking longer then expected. However, the most important thing is that everything works and continues to work!

All the old propeller wiring have been repaced. The cockpit wiring is therefore almost done! As has been mentioned earlier the propeller’s have 3 sytems that do the following tasks: 1) changing the pitch. 2) Feathering. 3) Reverse thrust.

The first system now fully works and has been tested. The other two systems have been installed but not yet tested. “Dry testing” will be done for the next few weeks, follwed by live tests with running engines. The new panel for the flight engineer has been installed and is working (picture).

In the meantime the last parts of the plane are subjected to thorough testing. The entire cabin floor has been opened, as are the many hatches of the wing (picture). After the thorough inspection of the FAA inspector last week we can now close them, and continue our work on the interior.

An important test is the retraction of the gear. Using jacks borrowed from KLM the plane was lifted into the air and the gear retracted one by one. All the bays closed, all warning lights worked. After all those tests where done the whole gear was retracted simultaneously.

For all techinicians involved in the project there was a course evening. No less than 35 persons listened to the stories and information of the Constellation. After that they had a walk in and around the plane to familiarise them with it. By now we have various specialists on a number of areas that are now sharing their knowledge with the volunteers.

N.B. If you are in the possesion of original Constellation material, and are willing to donate it to the Aviodrome to help with the restauration of the Constellation, please contact connie@aviodrome.nl

http://www.aviodrome.nl/actueel/projecten/connies-comeback/update-20april2004.asp