B29" FIFI "Ham AeroMobile Operations Update

[K1NSS]

This just in from Bob K3NT, operator of KM4RC B-29 special event station.

"We have a very short flight from Rockford, IL to Madison, WI. (TODAY) July 25th. Currently estimating 10:30 AM CST takeoff with KM4RC radio ops at 10:45. Mode will be AM with operations around 7.202 MHz. Powerful net control stations in the Mid West USA are encouraged to start a list of station for possible contact. I will make as many contacts as possible. Please remember that delays are to be expected and safety aircraft duties/tasks always are priority."

Bob also dispatched notes from the War on Murphy.

"Was blessed to have some time yesterday afternoon to look at FIFI's sick BC-348 HF receiver.

Field repair of FIFI's BC-348 at the Rockford International Airport dealt with a combination of issues. These issues included  low audio, drift, AGC pumping, and oscillation at times. With the help of the crew chief, the two left dynamotor mounting screws were found loose and re-tightened after removing the long left receiver release screw to gain access. Three shields were also found loose and re-secured. A number of the plate cap leads along with a slightly loose HV dynamotor lead was renewed. So, basically loose connections that are possibly caused by FIFI doing her rock n' roll dance in the air and when landing.

I was able to re-install the BC-348 into FIFI around 5 PM yesterday.  A short test showed much louder receiver audio. The BFO sounded better and while not a pure note, zero beat and CW signals are now usable. A test of the ART-13 for receiver sidetone was not too shabby! I did make a few short transmissions around 7.200 Mhz before securing the station. Will know for sure the extent of the field repair on today's  flight. Keep your fingers crossed boys and girls.

Lets hope "FIFI" can talk to some of you this morning. As always, thanks to one and all for your continued interest and support of Warbird communications."

73,
Bob K3NT   Tour 'B' operator "FIFI" KM4RC B-29 Station
The Worlds Only Flying B-29 Superfortress

www.b29radio.com
www.airpowertour.org

Photos by Bob K3NT

[K1NSS]

I enjoy Bob's "keep it real" commentary on what it takes to keep FIFIs radios flying.  History aside, my interest in warbird communications is personal, in that my dad was a B-17 radioman. BTW, if you look at original pictures of the radio postion and compare to the current, you'll see that the hardware is not exactly configured as it was.  Doing their best to maintain authenticity, the guys had to make a little room under the desk, where the some of FIFI's modern avionics are tucked.

[WA3VJB]

Also posted in the 40M "Band Watch" section.

[K1NSS]

Also posted in the 40M "Band Watch" section.

Tnx OM, glad somebody's awake!

[WA2OLZ]

1045CST or CDT? I'm listening around 02 but hear nobody for now (in NJ). I know it's early but thought you folks may be tuning up!

[K1NSS]

1045CST or CDT? I'm listening around 02 but hear nobody for now (in NJ). I know it's early but thought you folks may be tuning up!

Doubled checked Bob's original email and he wrote 1045 CST.

All the info I have.  I'm not at my QTH, no receiver to monitor. They were scheduled for takeoff at 1030 to Madison.

[WA2OLZ]

Thanks -- I will listen as long as I can  (Family coming over)

[K1NSS]

Bob just confirmed CST from plane via text message.

[W3RSW]

Just worked him with the 32v2.  He's about approaching final on landing.
Looks like his bc348 repairs are working.

[K1NSS]

Grats Rick!

2:15 EDST Text message from Bob K3NT aboard FIFI operating as KM4RC.

"Landed. (Madison WI) 15 stations contacted. Thanks to everyone"

Between Rockford IL and Madison was on 7.205 mHz, including contact with W0CXX, RCARC Cedar Rapids IA.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Jeff

[WA2OLZ]

Sorry to say the granddaughter plans for the day dragged me out of the shack. Congrats to all who made it work!

73
Jack
WA2OLZ

[WA2ROC]

I see that FIFI will be giving rides from the Madison Wisconsin Airport on both Saturday and Sunday,  at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM, will the Amateur station onboard be in operation also? 

[K1NSS]

I see that FIFI will be giving rides from the Madison Wisconsin Airport on both Saturday and Sunday,  at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM, will the Amateur station onboard be in operation also? 

I'll buzz Bob tonight and try to get you an answer. Offhand my guess is no, because the ham ops have ground support duties related to the rides, but just a guess. Pse stay tuned.