TM 1-1500-204-23-9
CHAPTER 2
TOOL PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES
2-1. General. This chapter discusses general care and
upkeep of the tools and equipment used in aircraft
maintenance. It is important that the aircraft mechanic is
familiar with these guidelines, so that the aircraft unit can
experience continued mission reliability.
2-2. Types of Tools Used In Army Aviation. The Army
aircraft mechanic has a large variety of tools at his
disposal. There are basic hand tools, measuring tools,
power tools, special tools for aircraft, and torque tools.
2-3. Tool Care. The efficiency of a mechanic and the
tools he/she uses is determined to a great extent by the
condition in which the tools are kept. Tools should be
wiped clean and dry before being placed in a tool box. If
their use is not anticipated in the near future, they should
be lubricated to prevent rust. This is especially true if
tools are stored under conditions of extremely humid or
salt air.
a.
Cleaning. Proper cleaning is of prime importance
in the care of the aircraft maintenance tools.
Listed below are a few simple procedures which
are the basis for proper care of aircraft
maintenance tools.
WARNING
Drycleaning solvent is flammable and
solvent vapors are toxic. Use P-D-680,
Type II Solvent in a well-ventilated area.
Keep away from open flames. Avoid
prolonged solvent contact with skin.
(1)
Wash grease and dirt from tools with
drycleaning solvent, Federal Specification P-D-680, and
wipe dry with a clean, dry cloth.
(2)
Clean serrated jaw faces of pliers, vises,
etc., with a wire brush.
(3)
Remove filings from between teeth of
files by use of a file card.
WARNING
When using air pressure, be extremely
careful. Do not blow stream of air toward
yourself or any other person. Users of air
pressure
and
personnel
within
the
immediate area shall wear safety glasses,
goggles, or face shield. Ear protection may
be required. Pressure will not exceed 30
psig. Failure to comply may result in injury
to personnel.
(4)
Wipe excess lubricating oil or residue
from taps and dies. Use clean, dry cloth for wiping. Blow
clean with dry, compressed air.
b.
Lubrication. Lubricate all working parts of
cleaned tools with engine oil, MIL-L-6082. Lightly coat
nonworking surfaces with a film of this oil.
c.
Storage. Tools should always be kept in their
appropriate storage place, when not in use. A tool box or
case not only keeps the tool protected from dirt, it also
ensures that the tool can be found, as long as it is
returned to its place after use. The tool box should be
locked and stored in a designated area, and an inventory
list maintained for that box.
2-4. Tool Selection. The selection of the proper tool or
size of tool to fit the job is of prime importance. Using a
tool not suited for the job or of incorrect size can result in
damage to the tool, damage to equipment being
maintained, or injury to maintenance personnel. Proper
choice of tools enables the mechanic to perform his work
quickly, accurately, and safely.
2-5. Prohibition Against the Use of Cadmium and
Zinc-Plated Tools on Army Aircraft. Use only chrome-
plated steel or unplated steel tools for disassembly or
reassembly procedures. Use of cadmium-or zinc-plated
tools is not permitted since these platings are prone to
chipping and flaking. Should these chips or flakes
become embedded in aircraft parts galvanic corrosion will
result. Should these chips or flakes enter fuel or oil
wetted components they may eventually clog the filter or
produce intergranular attack of nickel or titanium base
alloys at elevated temperature. All tools regardless of
type plating should be serviceable and free of chipping.
2-1
