All Aircraft: Spot Paint Stripping Aluminum Surfaces
By | Feb. 28, 2024
This article initially appeared in PS 763 (Jun 15), pgs. 25-26. To protect the environment from hazardous pollutants when stripping paint from aluminum surfaces, there are several options you can use. The best choice is to...
Apache: Extra Protection for Armor Transparency Barrier
By | Jan. 30, 2024
This article initially appeared in PS 776 (Jul 17). Protecting the Apache armor transparent barrier is important to avoid scratches during removal and installation. Units can create a temporary protective shield themselves...
UH-60/AH-64: Complete and Report All SOF and ASAMs
By | Jan. 17, 2024
Make sure all SOF and ASAM messages are applied and reported by suspense date to avoid being flagged in the 2410 database. Keep reading to find out which components by serial number have yet to be reported...
UH-60/AH-64: 2024 T700-GE-701D Training Course Dates
By | Dec. 21, 2023
The 2024 schedule for the T700 Army Engine Line Maintenance Course, provided by General Electric, has been published. Keep reading to learn more about available dates and how to register...
Apache: Remove Faulty T700 Engine EDECUs
By | Sept. 21, 2023
Perform a one-time inspection of the Apache T700 helicopter engines to check whether the enhanced digital electronic control units (EDECUs), PNs 4155T12P07 and 4155T12P08, are installed. If so, they must be removed from the...
Apache: Check Fuel Manifold Cover Latch Rivets
By | Aug. 1, 2023
Aviation maintenance action message, H-64-23-AMAM-1, requires a one-time inspection to make sure the fuel manifold panel latch rivets are installed properly or need replacing. Keep reading to learn more...
Apache: Generator is Heavier Than You Think
By | July 25, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 708 (Nov 11), p. 25. When removing or installing an Apache generator, it’s very heavy and requires use of tool kit NSN 5180-01-508-5887. Read on to find out more...
Apache: Correctly Reinstall Generator Wires
By | July 17, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 594 (02), p. 39. When removing generator wires, make sure you use heat-shrinkable bands to help you reinstall the wires correctly after maintenance. Read on to find out more...
Apache: Servocylinders Critically Needed
By | July 11, 2023
Turning in unserviceable servocylinders, NSN 1650-01-494-0084, helps to ensure fleet and Army readiness. If you have this item, turn it in ASAP. Keep reading to learn more...
Apache: Color of Grease Not Cause for Gearbox Replacement
By | July 6, 2023
Per H-64-23-MIM-01, the requirement in TM 1-1520-Longbow/Apache (16 Mar 23) to replace the tail rotor gearbox or intermediate gearbox if there’s grease discoloration is now discontinued. Read to find out more about this...
AH-64E Apache: Inspect for Missing or Loose Set Screws
By | June 2, 2023
Aviation maintenance action message (AMAM), H-64-23-AMAM-09 requires a one-time inspection for the W111 and W112 connectors for loose or missing set screws. Read on to find out more about the AMAM and its requirements...
All Aircraft: Repair Acrylic Windows
By | May 17, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 753 (Aug 15), p. 23. Instead of tossing out acrylic windows with scratches, blemishes or minor damage follow the good words in TM 1-1500-204-23-10 to repair them. Read on to find out...
AH-64: Removing Nose Gearbox Blocker Plates
By | May 17, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 699 (Feb 11). Removing the Apache nose gearbox plates requires some elbow grease but avoid using a pocket tool or screwdriver to remove them. Read on to learn more...
AH-64: New ECS Servicing Cart PN Now Available
By | May 10, 2023
Environmental control system (ECS) servicing cart, PN 7-562104012-605 and PN 7-562104012-603, have been replaced with PN 7-562104012-607. Until units get the newer cart, they must maintain existing carts. Read on to find out...
Chinook: SCAMP II Exceeds Floor Load Limits
By | April 27, 2023
Because of recent incidents of floor damage resulting from loading SCAMP IIs into Chinooks, units are currently prohibited from internally loading SCAMP IIs into any H-47 series aircraft. Read on to find out more...
Apache: Get Rid of Standing Water
By | April 5, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 741 (Aug 14), p. 26. When washing your Apache aircraft, be sure to cover certain components and never leave standing water anywhere, as this invites corrosion. Read on to learn the do’s...
Apache: Keep Rocket Launcher Firing Contacts Clean
By | March 16, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 745 (Dec 14); pp. 25-26. If the Apache M231 rocket launcher is not registering when rockets are loaded, then check the contacts as a first step. Read on to find out more...
Apache D/E: Gun Barrel Cleaning Done Right
By | March 15, 2023
This article initially appeared in PS 738 (May 14), p. 26. Properly cleaning the Apache M230 gun means removing the barrel first. Read on to learn why this is important...
AH-64D/E: Don't Use Unauthorized Tool
By | Sept. 30, 2022
When it comes to Apache maintenance, the only tools authorized for use are those called out in TM maintenance procedures. Locally fabricated tools can cause more damage than they prevent. Read on for more information...
All Aircraft: Eyeball Bench Stock for Bad Hardware!
By | Sept. 29, 2022
Use of common hardware is standard practice in aviation maintenance, but make sure all the hardware in your bench stock is in good condition and and has no damage. Read on to find out more...
All Aircraft: Don’t Play the Odds with Winter Weather
By | Sept. 23, 2022
PS Magazine and the Army Combat Readiness Center websites are great resources to get the information you need to protect yourself and your aircraft during harsh winter conditions. Keep reading to learn more...
Apache: Got Problems with EDECU?
By | Aug. 15, 2022
If you have the latest EDECU on your Apache, there is in-depth troubleshooting procedures you need to follow. And when ordering a replacement EDECU, use NSN 2995-01-680-3143 with a 2B advice code...
Apache: Engine Cleaning the Right Way
By | Aug. 4, 2022
Engine cleaning is not a one-size-fits-all. The environment sometimes determines how much and how frequent you'll clean your aircraft engines. Keep reading to learn more...
Apache: Using Covers Protects Aircraft
By | July 27, 2022
Mechanics, using aircraft covers on your Apache helps lower maintenance costs and protects your aircraft from severe weather. Click MORE>> to learn more...
Apache: Turn In These Unserviceable Components
By | July 6, 2022
The AMCOM Logistics Center (ALC) requests Apache units turn in these specific unserviceable parts to ensure supply is available to meet unit requirements. Click here to learn more...
AH-64: Reprogramming the Mast Mounted Assembly
By | June 14, 2022
The Apache helicopter has many complicated computerized parts. In the Jul 21 Apache newsletter, issue 96, it states that the mast mounted assembly (MMA) electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), NSN...
Apache: Replacing the Midframe Oil Drain Tube Coupling Nut
By | May 25, 2022
Mechanics, you spoke and the Apache T700 Office listened. You suggested that the field could repair the B Nut (PN R197P04) on the engine cold section module (CSM), instead of purchasing a new CSM, and save money. Here's what...
Apache: Stand Protects Searchlight
By | April 13, 2022
Mechanics, PS Magazine published an article back in February 2009 (Pages 36-38 of PS 675) about the challenges of removing the searchlight underneath the nose of the AH-64D due to the delicate nature of the equipment if...
All Aircraft: Pick the Right Type and Number of Jacks
By | Jan. 28, 2022
Mechanics, aircraft jacks are vital for maintenance on your helicopter. They’ve been around for years and gone through a lot of changes. Some have been put out to pasture while others have been neglected. This article offers...
HH/UH-60M, AH-64E, CH-47F: Get Familiar with Fiber Optic Care
By | Dec. 29, 2021
Initial note: This article applies to deploying or deployed units only. Aviation maintainers/electricians, to ensure aircraft are more survivable against threat missiles, the Project Office Aircraft Survivability Equipment...
All Aircraft: Cold Weather Prep, Icing and Winter Hazards
By | Dec. 6, 2021
Wintery weather brings many maintenance challenges, so make sure you’re on top of cold weather operations by thinking about environmental factors, operational procedures, training and hazards. Two Flightfax articles will help...
UH-60/AH-64: The Nuts and Bolts of Quick Disconnect Pins
By | Nov. 5, 2021
Aviation maintenance action messages (AMAMs) H-60-20-AMAM-03 and H-64-20-AMAM-04 require that all Apache and Black Hawk engines have remaining quick disconnect pins (QDPs) on the anti-ice valve and the T700 hydro-mechanical...
T700 Engines: Field Repair of B Nut Authorized
By | Nov. 5, 2021
Mechanics, The T700 Office has determined that field repair of the B nut on the cold section module (CSM) is a cost savings over procuring a new cold section module. Follow these maintenance engineering orders (MEOs)...
All Aircraft: Be Prepared for Cold Weather
By | Oct. 25, 2021
When winter weather extremes hit you and your aircraft with frigid temps, snow, ice and wind, even preventive maintenance (PM) defensive measures may be too little, too late...
AH-64D/E: Protecting Your TADS/PNVS Time Delay Unit
By | Aug. 20, 2021
Mechanics and operators, if you’re seeing screen degradation on the Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Time Delay Unit (TADS/PNVS TDU), that’s a sign of a breakdown in the polarization layer of the unit...
Apache: CCAD Needs Unserviceable Carrier Drive Assemblies
By | Aug. 10, 2021
Apache armament maintainers, check your back shops and work locations for unserviceable carrier drive assemblies, NSN 1005-01-221-7602. Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) needs them. Right now, CCAD has zero unserviceable...
AH-64D/E: Bad or Loose Connectors Cause Problems
By | Aug. 4, 2021
According to the Apache Sensors Project Office, maintainers are encountering poor Manned Un-Manned Teaming (MUMT) signal strength on systems that check out with a test set, while pilots are reporting having bad video in the...
Apache: Stay in Touch with Transportability Team
By | Aug. 2, 2021
The Apache Project Management (PM) Transportability Team (APMTT) provides support to Apache units requiring movement. This includes preparing equipment, providing a transportability technician and conducting training and...
Apache: Use DA Form 2028 for IETM Improvements
By | Aug. 2, 2021
Soldiers, the Apache IETM group appreciates the contributions you’ve made to improve the Apache TMs. So if you have a suggestion or recommendation for a problem you see with an IETM, the pubs group wants to hear from you...
Apache: Looking for Aviation Survivability Equipment Support?
By | July 23, 2021
Mechanics, if you’re having problems with your aviation survivability equipment (ASE) and need support then PM ASE is the place to go for help. They want you to reach out to them anytime for assistance with all of your ASE...
UH-60/AH-64: Follow Proper Engine Operation and Care
By | Feb. 25, 2021
Mechanics, operating the T700-701 engine with the engine inlet plugs installed is asking for trouble. Always follow the engine TM when performing engine maintenance. Check out WP 0302 in TM 1-2840-248-23&P (Oct 19). The title...
Aviation:Ship AVR-2B Security Key With Comparator Module
By | Feb. 24, 2021
This article initially appeared in PS 726, pp. 24-26. Black Hawk, Kiowa Warrior and AH-64 crew chiefs, do you want to save $8,800 of your cold hard cash? Then follow these instructions! Too many AVR-2B laser detecting sets...
AH-64/H-60: T700 Engine Training Available
By | Feb. 4, 2021
The 2021 T700 engine training courses are open. The class is designed for maintainers, troubleshooters, quality control and support personnel. Organizations should consider their deployment schedule and who they want to...
Apache: Get Familiar with MUMT with Two Guidebooks
By | Jan. 7, 2021
In a continuing effort to address gaps in Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) training, the Apache Sensors Product Office produced both the Manned Unmanned Teaming MUMT-2 and MUMT-X Pilot Guide and Manned Unmanned Teaming MUMT-2...
Apache: Turn in Unserviceable Parts For Repair
By | Jan. 4, 2021
Getting broken Apache parts repaired is important to keep your aircraft mission ready. But it’s also important to turn in parts when they’re unserviceable. Check your area and back shops for these parts in particular: ...
Apache: How to Get the Newsletter
By | Nov. 17, 2020
If you work on Apache aircraft, make a note that starting with Issue 92, all newsletter editions will be digital only. There will be no printed editions or mail outs to units...
Apache: Sustaining IHADSS Equipment
By | Oct. 22, 2020
Armament maintainers, if you’re sustaining AH-64Ds that are not equipped with Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS)-21s, you should only order the legacy IHADSS line replaceable unit (LRU) NSNs...
AH-64D/E: Folding Blades and Aircraft Transport
By | Sept. 28, 2020
Folding Apache blades and transporting aircraft isn’t as simple as it seems. That’s why it’s important to have the right tools and support. Aircraft transportability equipment and limited blade fold kits are managed by the...
Apache: New Fuel Tanks Coming
By | Aug. 27, 2020
If you haven’t heard, a new reduced-sized crashworthy external fuel system (RCEFS), NSN 1560-01-564-2584, is coming to your AH-64E aircraft...
Apache: Turn-ins Reduce Repair Parts Shortage
By | Aug. 7, 2020
Mechanics, AMCOM repair programs need your help! When Apache parts are unserviceable, it’s crucial that units turn them in for repair in a timely manner. The supply system can only meet the demand for parts when it has...
Apache: Ship Servocylinders in Original Containers
By | July 31, 2020
When you receive a new servocylinder for your Apache, make sure you place the unserviceable servocylinder it’s replacing in that container and return it for repair or overhaul. Don’t use the containers for anything else!...
Aircraft: FOD Control is a Must
By | July 8, 2020
Foreign object debris (FOD) is the culprit behind foreign object damage (FOD) to aircraft. FOD can come from the most unsuspecting places, like a pebble stuck in the sole of your boots, hardware that’s been left behind after...
Aviation: Take Control of CORROSION
By | July 7, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 800 (Jul 19), p. 25. Mechanics, aircraft multipin electrical connectors are the electrical interface between the aircraft and avionics systems. The failure of just one electrical...
AH-64E: Keep Moisture Out of NIU
By | July 6, 2020
The AH-64E Apache’s nitrogen inerting unit (NIU), NSN 1560-01-587-1028, is designed to reduce oxygen in the aircraft’s fuel cells to prevent combustion...
Aircraft: COVID-19 Disinfectant Recommendations
By | June 11, 2020
Protecting yourself, your aircraft and everyone around you in a COVID-19 environment is important. In this new normal dealing with COVID-19, it’s important to remind you of the approved cleaning solution for all aircraft to...
Apache: Keep the Birds Out
By | May 21, 2020
Crew chiefs, it’s that time of year again when those fine-feathered friends target your Apache and become stowaways to build nests for their little ones. Birds use whatever they can to make nests, such as grass, small pieces...
Aircraft: Win the Battle of the Birds
By | May 19, 2020
The old saying, “Birds of a feather flock together,” is not just a saying, but it’s happening inside aircraft hangars. Birds love to set up shop inside hangars to nest and breed. They leave droppings, which is always a...
Aircraft: Maintenance Situational Unawareness
By | May 11, 2020
Aircraft maintenance is very important for mission success and so is maintenance situational awareness. The two go hand-in hand. The US Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker published an article about maintenance...
All Aircraft: Emergency Response Methodology
By | May 11, 2020
A recent US Army Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE) analysis of mishaps showed a need for training in crew reactions to aircraft emergencies, especially when it comes to large-scale combat operations (LSCO) flight...
AH-64: Keep Track of Your MUMT
By | April 28, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 799 (Jun '19), p 24. Mechanics, aircraft transfers happen on a regular basis. Factors like model upgrades, transfers, or movement of aircraft into theater mean you need to know the...
AH-64/UH/HH-60: Keep Feet Off Engines![
By | April 16, 2020
This article initially appeared in PS 794 pages 22-23. Mechanics, Black Hawk and Apache engines have delicate connectors and parts. So every time you step where you shouldn’t, stuff gets broken. And that defeats the purpose...
Apache: Ordering and Turning in Parts
By | Jan. 31, 2020
Mechanics, now that Apache parts such as the main rotor blades, E-model swash plates and MUMTs have transitioned off performance-based logistics (PBL), make sure you return serviceable or unserviceable components for...
AGSE: New Tool Kit Available for Aircraft Armament Repairers
By | Jan. 22, 2020
This article initially appeared in Issue PS 801, pages 20-21. Aircraft armament mechanics, having the right tool is essential for good PM. MWO 1-1500-50-5 makes that possible by modernizing the three-box legacy Individual...
AH-64: Be Mindful of M230 Gun Procedures
By | Jan. 22, 2020
This article initially appeared in Issue PS 800, pages 22-23. The primary method for uploading and downloading ammo into the AH-64D/E’s sideloader is AUTO MODE. The sideloader/magazine controller (SMC) manual mode is used...
AGSE: Composite Repair Kits Have the Right Tools
By | Jan. 21, 2020
Airframe mechanics, having the right tools to make composite repairs is important. The K3000 composite repair kit, NSN 4920-01-628-2469, is a portable kit with specialized tools used to facilitate composite repairs while away...
Apache: Mounting Trouble for AAG Antenna
By | Jan. 9, 2020
There’s an issue with improper mounting of the Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) lower Air-to-Air-to-Ground (AAG) antenna. In some units, the lower AAG antenna was mounted backwards, which can affect the MUMT operation. That’s...
New T700 Engine IETM Now on Army Enterprise Portal
By | Dec. 19, 2019
Mechanics, the wait is over. The T700-GE-700/-701C/-701D engine's newest IETM, TM 1-2840-248-23&P (EM 0271, Oct 19), is now published. You can find it on the Army Enterprise Portal...
Black Hawk/Apache: Don’t Hoard T700-GE-701C PTMs
By | Nov. 25, 2019
Check for unserviceable power train modules, NSN2840-01-286-1909, and don't stockpile them but turn them in and use the replacement, NSN 2840-01-503-1700. Read on to find out more...
AH-64: Avoid the Green Tag Snag
By | Nov. 25, 2019
When turning in an unserviceable component, it’s important you fill out the green tag DD Form 1577-2, Unserviceable (Reparable) Tag-Materiel, with the correct information. Here's how...
Apache: USB Interface Device Now Available
By | Nov. 18, 2019
If you haven’t received it yet, be on the lookout for the new MIL-STD-1553 Apache USB interface device, NSN 5995-01-668-2169 (PN ACS1553M, CAGE 644Y8). The Apache PM started distributing the device in mid-2019...
Apache: Inspection Kits Now Available
By | Nov. 8, 2019
A lot of the angst dealt with the hours required to locate and gather parts for the 250-hour, 500-hour and six-month gun inspections. PM Apache answered those concerns with a series of kits that reduce the man-hours...
Apache: Helmet Chinstrap Needs Care
By | Nov. 8, 2019
Operator and maintainer PMCS say the HGU-56/P helmet shouldn’t be used if the chinstrap is frayed. And there’s no percentage of fraying allowed either. Any fraying means the helmet is non-mission capable. Read on to learn...