Table of Contents Section 1: Introduction to the Bambi MAX Overview (All Models) ....................1 Section 2: Preflight Safety Check Safety Checklist ......................2 Section 3: Deploying the Bambi Bucket Deployment Instructions ....................3 Attaching to the Cargo Hook ................3 Head Orientation ....................3 Connecting Power ..................4 Checking Suspension Cable Length ..............4 Overall Lengths with Standard Rigging ............5...
Bambi MAX number of your Bambi MAX. For more copies of this manual, please contact SEI or visit our website at www.bambibucket.com for more information on these products. 2012 Bambi Max Operations Manual...
Safety Checklist Section 2: Preflight Safety Check Section 2: Preflight Safety Check Safety Checklist Along with the aircraft, the Bambi MAX should also receive a preflight inspection each day. Follow the checklist below, beginning at the bottom of the bucket and working upwards. Check the bottom chain looking for any tears in the fabric straps.
Deployment Instructions Section 3: Deploying the Bambi Bucket Section 3: Deploying the Bambi Bucket Deployment Instructions Attaching to the Cargo Hook Caution The Bambi MAX may not be suitable for a direct hook-up to the cargo hook. The actual hook-up will be different for various aircraft and operators must comply with all instructions and bulletins supplied by the aircraft manufacturer.
Deployment Instructions Section 3: Deploying the Bambi Bucket Connecting Power The Bambi MAX’s electrical supply is connected through a breakaway plug. The purpose of the plug is to offer a clean “breakaway” if the Bambi MAX has to be jettisoned from the aircraft in an emergency. If the control cable is not secured to the longline, duct tape should be wrapped every 24-36"...
If the overall length of the Bambi bucket exceeds the distance from the cargo hook to the front tip of the tail rotor of the helicopter, shorter suspension lines and deployment lines must be used and can be ordered from SEI. Please specify the model and serial number when ordering parts. Instant Deployment System (IDS)
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Instant Deployment System (IDS) Section 3: Deploying the Bambi Bucket To deploy the IDS on the ground, reach into the bucket, grasp the hub of the IDS and pull outward fully until the two restraining cables from the hub to the lower bucket shell are tight. The IDS is normally set to the last chain link which is its correct position by the factory but, if the bucket has been worked on by other people, it may have been accidentally positioned wrong.
Bambi buckets can operate in any atmospheric conditions where icing conditions are not present. If icing conditions are encountered during operations, in flight or on the ground, SEI cannot guar- antee the reliable operation of the valve actuating mechanisms nor related components.
Filling the Bucket Section 4: Flight Operations Filling the Bucket Once the Bambi MAX touches the water surface, it immediately tips and sinks. This is a result of the ballast on one side of the bucket which makes it unstable on the water. Opening the valve will make the bucket sink faster but it should be closed once it is below the surface.
Using the Firesock Section 4: Flight Operations Variable Fill Capability In some areas, fire conditions require the reduction of bucket loads to accommodate weight restrictions caused by high elevation operations. The Bambi MAX has a gated valve system that allows the pilot to reduce the bucket load. By pressing and releasing the dump switch as the bucket is being pulled from the water, the bucket weight can be reduced until the desired load is reached as indicated by a load cell or torque gauge.
Dumping the Bucket Section 4: Flight Operations Dumping the Bucket Introduction To dump water from the bucket, push and hold the dump switch. As long as the switch is held, water will flow from the bucket. Release the switch to stop the flow of water. The valve may be opened and closed an unlimited number of times allowing the water load to be split into as many parts as desired.
Packing and Storing Section 5: Packing and Storage Section 5: Packing and Storage Packing and Storing Packing the Bucket Collapse the IDS by pushing the hub into the bucket. Grab the head and pull the suspension lines taut. Tape the lines together in two bunches. 2012 Bambi Max Operations Manual (Version A)
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Packing and Storing Section 5: Packing and Storage Insert the operations manual into the storage bag. Gather the suspension lines into a coil and stow inside the bucket. Place the head outside of the bucket to prevent the possibility of the lines tangling.
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Packing and Storing Section 5: Packing and Storage Roll the bucket into a bundle and wrap with straps supplied. Rotate shell until head is under the shell. Take the carrying bag and drape it over the bucket. 2012 Bambi Max Operations Manual (Version A)
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Packing and Storing Section 5: Packing and Storage Roll the bucket over and insert the manual. 10. Close with zipper and store with label showing. The Bambi MAX carrying bag makes a suitable shipping container when shipping via airfreight. Because of the compactness of the Bambi, many operators carry it aboard the helicopter, at all times, during the fire season.
Capacity and Weight Specifications Section 6: Specifications and Parts Section 6: Specifications and Parts Capacity and Weight Specifications Bambi Max Capacity Gross Weight Empty Weight Model Imp Gal US Gal Liters 1518 1600 1821 1900 2024 2100 1000 2024S 2100 1000 2226 1000...
Section 7: Warranty Section 7: Warranty SEI Industries Ltd. (the company) agrees to grant a warranty for a period of one year from the date of purchase of Bam- bi bucket systems on the following conditions: a) The company’s sole obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing, at the company’s sole discre- tion, any product shown to be defective.
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