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Speedbrake question

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Donald Avey
Speedbrake question

I have an odd question. I never had the honor of personal involvement with the F-4, but have always loved her and am an avid modeller.  My (possibly silly) question is this: When parked and shut down, did the speed brakes drop open, a la the F-86? Model kits, and modellers, always show them fully open,  but my memories of airshow visits and study of photos makes me doubt this. Who better to ask than the members of the Society? Thanks in advance for any insight you can provide.

Don Avey  

CrewChief
Speedbrakes

Hi Don!

They drooped a tad but not always.  On pre-flight we always pulled them down a bit to check for hydraulic leaks.  In 'Nam we (flight crew) often gingerly put chaff in small boxes in the speed brake wells to use over the target, and then tried to remember not to pop the brakes on the joinup after takeoff.  

Shefftini

Donald Avey
Speedbrakes

Thanks! That's what I thought, but wanted confirmation form one who knew. Now i can defend my decision from "expert" criticism.

David Phillips
Speedbrakes

Don't confuse the Speed Brakes with the Engine Bay Bleed Air Vent doors, which vent excess pressure from the engine bay (e.g. compressor stall).  They open at an oblique angle to the Brakes. These doors often will open slowly as hydraulic pressure bleeds down after engine shutdown.  They are usually blocked with a safety strut when the aircraft is parked, primarily because they will close abruptly if hydraulic power is applied to the aircraft for maintenance, and will take your hand off if it is where it shouldn't be.

Donald Avey
Speedbrakes

Thanks. I was aware of that.  

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