INTRODUCTION

This report covers my experience during field training with Air Tanzania’s Aircraft Maintenance
Engineering department. The training was an integral part of my Diploma in AME (Aircraft
Maintenance Engineering), designed to provide practical exposure, enhance technical skills, and
bridge the gap between theoretical studies and industry practices.

During the training, I was actively involved in key maintenance activities such as line
maintenance, troubleshooting, routine inspections, and major checks. I also gained practical
experience working in specialized areas such as the wheel’s workshop, where tasks included
disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly for both Main wheel and Nose Wheel hub for
aircraft models like the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Boeing 767-300F, Boeing 737 Max 9, Airbus
A220-300 and Bombardier Dash 8- Q400.

This Training was not limited to technical learning; it also offered an opportunity to observe and
understand the organizational structure, workflows, and the integration of different departments
within Air Tanzania. It exposed me to the challenges faced in the aviation industry, such as time
constraints, resource allocation, and maintaining high standards under pressure.

Through this report, I aim to document my observations, practical experiences, and the
knowledge I acquired, highlighting the immense learning opportunities provided by Air Tanzania
and my educational institution.

2.1 Work 1

Date: 17th August 2024

Subject of the work:

Participated in the Disassembly, cleaning, inspection and reassembly of the main wheel of
Boeing 767-300F with a new tyre cover as per CMM 32-49-51 Due to old tyre cover worn out to
limit.

Tools, fixtures and equipment

• 12-point socket 7/16”
• 12-point socket 9/16”
• Deflation tool
• Bead breaker machine
• Wheel Assembly/ Disassembly Machine
• Washing Machine
• Anti-seize compound
• Bearing grease
• Inflation cage
• Source of dry nitrogen
2.1.1 DISASSEMBLING

1. We Remove the valve cap and deflate the tire completely with a
deflation and then we remove the valve core from the stem.

2. We Cut and remove the lockwire. Loosen and remove the pressure
relief valve from the outer half-wheel assembly. Remove the
preformed packing from the pressure relief valve. Discard the
preformed packing.

3. Remove the inner and outer retaining rings. Remove the inner and
outer bearing seals and remove the inner and outer bearing cones.
remove the three fusible plugs.

4. We use a bead breaker machine to loosen the tire beads from the
flanges of the main landing gear wheel assembly.

5. The tire was lifted and fixed on the machine ready to untroque the
hub nuts. We Remove the 18 nuts and 18 washers retaining the two
halves in a crisscross sequence. Pull the outer half-wheel assembly
out of the tire. Remove the spacer washer and the preformed
packing.

6. Pull the tire from the inner half-wheel assembly. Remove the inner
half-wheel assembly. Remove the 18 bolts and 18 washers.

2.1.2 CLEANING

1. The hubs, bearings, washers, bolts and nuts were placed in the
washing machine for them to be cleaned up.

2. We make sure that all the bolts and nuts threads are fully clean.

2.1.3 INSPECTION

1. Visually examine the wheel half for damages caused by nicks,

dents and cracks.
 2. Visually examine the wheel half for corrosion on bead seat and
holes where moisture and contamination can be collected.

3. Visually examine wheel half for areas where there is paint and
surface treatment is worn through to bare metal.

4. Visually examine the bearing cones and bearing cups for wear and
corrosion and other damage.

5. Visually examine the 18-wheel bolts.

6. Visually examine the 18 self-locking nuts for self-locking function.

2.1.4 ASSEMBLY

1. Lubricate the nuts, the washers and the bolts with Anti-seize
compounds AMS 2518

2. Mount tyre on inner wheel half assembly. Align the inflation valve
on the outer half wheel assembly with the RED DOT (or mark) on
the tire bead.

3. Install the 18 washers and 18 nuts.

4. Torque the nuts in a crisscross sequence to a preload of 95.9 [Link]

5. Torque the nuts in a crisscross sequence with a final load of 191.8 [Link].

6. We remove the tire from the machine and then Inflate tire with dry
nitrogen in the tire pressure test system machine.

7. We Lubricate the bearing cones with SHC 100 grease. Apply the
grease to bearing cups. Install cones in wheel half assemblies. Wipe
off all excess grease.

8. Apply a thin layer of bearing grease to the rubber half of each seal.
Install seals and retaining rings.

9. After 24 hours we inspect tire, valve assembly and wheels for leaks
and if none is found release wheel assembly to store.
2.3 Work 2

Date: 6th October 2024

Aircraft registration: 5H-TCB

Aircraft Type: Bombardier Dash 8 Q400
Engine Type: Pratt & Whitney PW150A

Subject of the work:

Participated in the replacement of Nacelle Shutoff Valve Filter on Right engine (Engine 2) in
accordance with AMM 36−11−19−000−802
AMM 36−11−19−400−802 Due to Scheduled Maintenance.

The maintenance procedures that follow are for the Removal and installation of the nacelle
shutoff valve filter (written as “filter” in these procedures). There are two filters, one installed in
each nacelle shutoff valve. There is one nacelle shutoff valve in each engine nacelle.

Tools and equipment

Torque Wrench, 0 to 50 lbf in (0 to 5.65 N·m)

Consumable Materials
Lubricant
Wire, Safety or Lock, Corrosion Resistant Steel, Nominal Wire Diameter 0.020 inch (0.508 mm)

Safety Precautions

•Electrical/electronic and electrostatic discharge safety precautions were followed as per AMM
24-00-00-910-801 and AMM 24-00-00-910-802.

•Circuit breakers were opened, tagged, and safetied before beginning work.

2.3.1 Removal Procedure (AMM 36-11-19-000-802)

1. Open the right engine (Engine #2) access panels.

2. Remove the lock wire from the filter plug.
3. Unscrew and remove the plug from the valve housing.
4. Remove and discard the preformed packing (seal).
5. Remove the filter and retaining spring from the valve housing.
6. Insert the plug finger-tight in the housing and tag it to indicate that the
filter has been removed.
2.3.2 Installation Procedure (AMM 36-11-19-400-802)

1. Remove the plug and retaining spring from the housing.

2. Remove the tag from the plug.
3. Install a new filter and retaining spring in the housing.
4. Install a new preformed packing on the plug.
5. Lubricate the plug threads with Molythium lubricant.
6. Install the plug in the housing and torque it to 35-40 lbf·in (3.96-4.52
N·m).
7. Secure the plug using safety lock wire

2.3.3 Close-Out Procedure

• Close the right engine access panels (422BL Door and 422DT Panel).
• Remove all tools, equipment, and unwanted materials from the work
area.
• Remove safety tags and close circuit breakers as per removal
configuration.

2.3.4 Conclusion

The replacement of the Nacelle Shutoff Valve Filter was successfully completed following
AMM guidelines. All safety precautions were observed, and the circuit breakers and panels were
restored to their original configurations. The aircraft was returned to service in compliance with
maintenance requirements.

During my field attachment at Air Tanzania’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering facility, I faced
several challenges, including:

3.1.1 Limited Hands-On Time – Due to the structured nature of the maintenance facility,
there were restrictions on the extent of hands-on involvement for trainees in some critical
maintenance procedures.

3.1.2 Time Constraints – Given the busy nature of aircraft operations, some tasks had to be
completed within strict timelines, making it challenging to observe all procedures in detail.

3.1.3 Complexity of Aircraft Systems – Aircraft maintenance involves highly technical

processes that require extensive experience and knowledge, making it difficult to grasp
certain concepts in a short period.

3.1.4 Availability of Spare Parts and Tools – Occasionally, some maintenance tasks faced
delays due to the unavailability of required spare parts or specialized tools.

3.1.5 Adapting to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – Strict adherence to

maintenance manuals, safety procedures, and documentation standards was a challenge at
first, but with time, I adapted to the professional work environment.
3.2 Recommendations

3.2.1 Increase Practical Engagement – Providing trainees with more opportunities for hands-
on involvement under supervision can enhance their confidence and technical skills.

3.2.2 Extend Training Duration – A slightly longer training period would allow students to
better understand complex maintenance procedures and get more exposure to diverse tasks.

3.2.3 Enhance Pre-Attachment Preparation – Additional theoretical training before field

training can help students familiarize themselves with maintenance manuals, SOPs, and
troubleshooting techniques in advance.

3.2.4 Improve Resource Availability – Ensuring that necessary tools, spare parts, and
equipment are readily available can help minimize delays in maintenance work.

3.2.5 Mentorship and Guidance – Assigning experienced engineers as mentors for trainees can
provide structured learning and improve knowledge transfer.

Conclusion

My field training at Air Tanzania’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering facility was an invaluable
experience that significantly enhanced my technical skills and understanding of aircraft
maintenance operations. Through hands-on engagement, I gained practical knowledge in line
maintenance, troubleshooting, inspections, and major component servicing.

Despite facing some challenges, the experience was highly beneficial in bridging the gap
between theory and practical application. The exposure to real-world aviation maintenance
environments reinforced my understanding of teamwork, safety regulations, and adherence to
maintenance protocols.

I am grateful for the opportunity to train at Air Tanzania and appreciate the guidance provided by
my supervisors and instructors. This experience has further strengthened my passion for aircraft
maintenance engineering and prepared me for future career opportunities in the aviation industry.