Dover Reservists Improve C-5M Reliability

Airmen at Dover AFB, Del., are improving the reliability and life expectancy of the C-5M transport via a project inspired by the Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century initiative, according to a base release. Members of Air Force Reserve Command’s 512th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron noted that one of the leading causes of downtime for the C-5M were issues with the aircraft’s fire-suppression system, states the March 27 release. Over the course of several years, they worked with a product-improvement working group at Warner Robins AFB, Ga., and came up with re-designed valves, a universal wiring harness, an upgraded FSS control panel, and better seals and plumbing. The first C-5M with the upgraded hardware is now at Dover in the isochronal maintenance dock, and plans are to retrofit the entire C-5M fleet, states the release. AFSO21 is designed to maximize value and minimize waste through process improvements. (Dover report by A1C Ashlin Federick)