Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 10
Filling the Bucket
Once the Bambi MAX Bucket touches the water surface, it immediately tips and sinks. This is a result of
the ballast on one side of the bucket which makes it unstable on the water. Opening the valve will make
the bucket sink faster but it should be closed once it is below the surface.
WARNING
When filling the Bambi MAX Bucket, do not execute an abrupt pedal turn with the helicopter close to
the water while towing the bucket. There is a danger that the Bambi MAX Bucket suspension lines
could get caught on a rear skid resulting in a dynamic rollover on lift out. This could cause personal
injury and helicopter damage.
Check the load and suspension cables with your mirrors before lifting out.
To fill the bucket from an open top tank, you will require a tank with a recommended depth as shown in
the chart below:
Model*
Bambi Height
Required
Tank Height
BBX1518*
39”
1.00 m
48”
1.22 m
BBX1821*
41”
1.04 m
56”
1.45 m
BBX2024*
43”
1.09 m
58”
1.52 m
BBX2226
44”
1.10 m
60”
1.52 m
BBX2732*
48”
1.22 m
60”
1.52 m
BBX3137
52”
1.32 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX3542
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX4453
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX5566
62”
1.57 m
84”
3.05 m
BBX6578
67”
1.70 m
90”
3.05 m
BBX7590
73”
1.85 m
96”
3.05 m
BBXHL4000
75”
1.90 m
96”
3.05 m
BBXHL5000
80”
2.03 m
110” 3.05 m
BBXHL7600
95”
2.41 m
120” 3.05 m
BBXHL9800
106” 2.70 m 120” 3.05 m
*Applicable to models of the same size denoted with suffix ‘S’, e.g., BBX1518S.
The table does not apply if you are using a PowerFill system.
Variable Fill Capability
In some situations, elevation and temperature conditions may require the reduction of the bucket load below
its nominal capacity. It is also desirable to vary the bucket load as fuel is consumed by the aircraft in order
to maximize efficiency.
The Bambi MAX Bucket has a valve system that allows the pilot to vary the bucket load. By pressing and
releasing the dump switch as the bucket is being pulled from the water, the bucket weight can be reduced
