Attaching Hoses

Installing and removing hoses can be one of the most frustrating task to accomplish in any given work day. Be it replacing a vacuum pump,  installing a fuel control, or simple scat hose on the heat muff. I have found a little trick that helps me install pitot-static, de-ice boot and even tight scat hoses a little easier and aids in removal when the time comes. I apply a little DC4 to the hoses or the fitting prior to install. Now remember, we don't want to clog any small orifices or aid in dirt accumulation, so just a little dab will do ya', mostly to the contact area of the hose & fitting, and watch those hoses slip right on. Hopes this helps. 

Removing Screws with Stripped Heads

I have a trick that I've shown to every (male) mechanic I've worked with and they love it. It's really no secret and it was shown to me by some old guy who worked on freight dog 402's in Florida. I apply some valve grinding compound (or any abrasive, this guy used Ajax) to my screw driver bit, use an adapter for the bit (or a 1/4" socket) and my speed handle, if you have the room, or a non-ratcheting screw driver and a wrench. Then, use the speed handle as an impact device of sorts, and rock the screw in the tightening and loosening direction, while putting a lot of square pressure on the head of the screw. The bit has a much better chance of staying in the head of the screw and not popping out, thus stripping it further, the abrasive gives added friction, and the rocking back and forth breaks away the dirt or corrosion holding the screw in place. If that doesn't work, the only extractor you need is the Snap-on stubby extractor and the best drill bits are the 135 degree Thunder Bit. Happy wrenching! 

Submitted by Rena H. Smith, Helicopter Mechanic 

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