Bambi-MAX SERVICE MANUAL

BAMBI MAX BUCKET
Models HL4000 – HL9800
SERVICE MANUAL
2020B
BAMBI MAX BUCKET SERVICE MANUAL
Models HL4000-HL9800
Version: 2020B
Part Number: 011750
Maintenance Level: Organizational (O)
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING.
This manual is applicable to the following models:
BBXHL4000 (# 007912)
BBXHL4000PF (# 007913)
BBXHL5000 (# 007914)
BBXHL5000PF (# 007915)
BBXHL7600 (# 007916)
BBXHL7600PF (# 007917)
BBXHL9800 (# 007918)
BBXHL9800PF (# 007919)
PATENTS
AU2012201273
CA2770005
US9265977
Copies of this manual (#011750) are available from SEI.

This manual is available on the SEI website.
Register for manual update notifications at bambiupdate@sei-ind.com.
This manual is based on information that was available at the time it was printed and may not
be applicable to products received before the issue date and customized items.
SEI INDUSTRIES LTD.

7400 Wilson Avenue
Delta, B.C. Canada
V4G 1H3
Phone: (604) 946-3131

Fax: (604) 940-9566
E-Mail: seisales@ssei-ind.com
Website: www.bambibucket.com
COPYRIGHT © 2020 SEI INDUSTRIES LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Revision Summary
Version Release Date Revision Description
2020A 21-Jan-2020 • General Revision
• General Revision
2020B 25-Nov-2020 • IVC 2
• PowerFill MAX Wiring diagram revised.
VALIDATION OF OPERATIONS DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL
The maintenance operations described in this manual have been checked in manufacturer's
workshops by an exact carrying out of dismantling, reassembly, test and repair instructions
which are detailed in this document.
These operations are those in use at the latest revision date of the document.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction ............................................................................................................ 1
Valve System ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Section 2: Deploying the Bucket............................................................................................. 5
Attaching to the Cargo Hook .................................................................................................................... 5
Connecting Power ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Longlines .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Checking Tail Rotor Clearance ................................................................................................................. 8
Instant Deployment System (IDS) ............................................................................................................ 9
Section 3: Accessories ...........................................................................................................11
PowerFill MAX ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Foam Injection Systems .......................................................................................................................... 13
Power Pack.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Section 4: Making Adjustments .............................................................................................17
Adjusting Components............................................................................................................................ 17
Section 5: Packing and Storage .............................................................................................19
Packing.................................................................................................................................................... 19
Storage .................................................................................................................................................... 22
Section 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance ......................................................................23
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Maintenance Procedures ......................................................................................................................... 25
Section 7: Repair Assessment Guide ....................................................................................27
Overview of Repair Categories ............................................................................................................... 27
Head Repair Criteria ............................................................................................................................... 28
Cables Repair Criteria ............................................................................................................................. 29
M-Straps/Top Chains Repair Criteria ..................................................................................................... 30
IDS Hub Repair Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 31
Bucket Shell Repair Criteria ................................................................................................................... 32
Section 8: Repairs ...................................................................................................................33
Rigging Repairs ...................................................................................................................................... 33
Valve Repair and Replacement ............................................................................................................... 39
Shell Repairs ........................................................................................................................................... 50
Section 9: Specifications and Parts .......................................................................................57
Capacity and Weight Specifications ....................................................................................................... 57
Parts ........................................................................................................................................................ 58
Section 10: Drawings ..............................................................................................................87
Section 11: Warranty ..............................................................................................................91
Section 1: Introduction
The Bambi MAX Bucket (Bambi MAX) is a collapsible firefighting bucket with a multiple drop valve.
The multiple drop capability allows an operator to split the bucket load over several locations. It also
allows the operator to adjust the amount of water carried in the bucket to match the lifting capability of
the aircraft throughout its fuel cycle.
This manual provides information on the service and maintenance of Bambi MAX models HL4000 to
HL9800. A separate Bambi MAX operations manual is also supplied which should be carried on-board
the helicopter.
For your own protection, and for longer bucket life, always read the instructions and warnings. Ignoring
these warnings could result in personal injury, bucket damage, or aircraft damage.
SEI Industries Ltd. offers complete parts supply and repair services for the Bambi MAX. For a repair
facility in your area, please contact SEI. For maintenance and repair purposes, parts diagrams and
descriptions are provided in this manual.
When you are ordering parts, please provide the model and serial number of your Bambi MAX as shown
on the data tags located inside the bucket shell.
Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 1

Valve System
Description
The Bambi MAX uses a tubular type valve with seals located on the top and bottom of the tube. When in
the default closed position, the seals make contact with top plate and bottom ring of the valve assembly.
When in the open position, the tube is raised allowing water to flow between the bottom of the tube and
the base ring and then through the opening in the base ring.
Movement of the valve tube is controlled by an actuator and drive cable system. The actuator is mounted
on the top plate and consists of a drive motor, reduction gearing and a cable drum. The cable drum can be
rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the direction of the motor.
One end of the drive cable is attached to the cable drum. The cable is routed down around the deflector
sheaves at the base of the valve and back up to the cable drum where the other end is terminated forming
a closed loop. The drive cable is also attached to a horizontal lift bar which itself is attached across the
lower end of the tube.
When the motor and cable drum is rotated clockwise, the drive cable pulls up on the lift bar, opening the
valve. When the motor and cable drum is rotated counter-clockwise, the other end of the drive cable pulls
down on the lift bar via the deflector sheaves, closing the valve. It is normal for there to be slackness on
the non-tension side of the cable.

Operation of the valve motor is regulated by a controller located in a waterproof enclosure on the top of
the valve assembly. The controller receives power and a control signal from the aircraft via a three
conductor cable. The control signal is provided in the aircraft via a momentary push button and relay.
Valve position feedback to the controller is provided by a sensor cam and two sensors. The sensor cam is
located on the front of the cable drum and rotates with the motor and cable drum. The sensors are located
in the controller enclosure. As the sensor cam rotates, a cut-out in its face actuates the sensors, signalling
to the valve controller if the valve is closed, open, or somewhere in between. The sensors are a proximity
type and are not affected by any non-metallic contamination of the water.
When the controller receives the open signal from the aircraft, the valve motor rotates clockwise and
opens the valve. When the open sensor is triggered by the cam, the motor turns off and the valve remains
in the open position as long as the open signal is present.
When the operator releases the push button, the open signal is removed. The motor rotates counter-
clockwise and closes the valve. When the closed sensor is triggered by the cam, the motor turns off and
the tube remains in the closed position.

The sensor cam can be rotated on the drum to adjust the valve position. Rotating the cam clockwise will
lower the valve; counter-clockwise will raise the valve. See Error! Reference source not found..
There is a status indicator lamp on the side of the control enclosure which indicates the location of the
valve tube.
Indicator Status
○ Off No Power
● Yellow Valve Closed
☀ Flashing Green Valve Partially Open
● Green Valve Open

Motor Protection
● Red
Activated
☀ Flashing Red Sensor Fault
The controller has a motor protection system to prevent the motor from being overloaded.
The motor protection will activate if the valve does not reach its fully open or fully closed position within
a given time period, the valve is in its partially open position for too long, or if the valve is severely out of
adjustment.
When activated, the motor protection system isolates the motor from the power source but does not
remove power from the rest of the controller. The controller and valve will remain locked in its current
state when the motor protection was activated.
The valve will remain operational when the motor protection is activated. For example, if the valve is
unable to reach its fully closed position, the motor protection will activate, and the valve can still be
opened by triggering the dump switch. Alternatively, if the valve cannot reach its fully open position, the
motor protection will activate, and the valve can still be closed by releasing the dump switch.
NOTICE
The information in this manual may only be applicable to products received after the most recent
release date of this manual.
CAUTION
The control enclosure is hermetically sealed. Unauthorized opening will void the warranty.

Section 2: Deploying the Bucket

Attaching to the Cargo Hook
Correct attachment of the head is indicated when the ballast on the bucket faces forward in flight which
will avoid twisting of the suspension lines. If using a swivel hook, it is recommended to operate in
the locked position to assure that the ballast is always facing forward in flight.
CAUTION
The Bambi MAX Bucket may not be suitable for a direct hook-up to the cargo hook. The actual hook-
up will be different for various aircraft and operators must comply with all instructions and bulletins
supplied by the aircraft manufacturer. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the Bambi MAX
is correctly fitted to the helicopter.
The Bambi MAX Bucket is rigged for a longitudinal cargo

hook. The top shackle on the head acts as the secondary ring
for the cargo hook. The operator must supply a primary ring
in accordance with the cargo hook manufacturer’s
recommendations.
If the helicopter has a lateral cargo hook, an additional ring

or shackle will be required between the top shackle and the
primary ring to rotate the bucket 90°.
WARNING
Ensure that all rings and shackles are rated with a minimum safety factor of five for the gross weight of
the bucket as shown on the data plate.

Connecting Power
The minimum power requirement to control the Bambi MAX valve is 24-28 VDC, supplying 8 amps,
measured at the head of the bucket. The Bambi MAX comes with a three-conductor, 16-gauge control
cable that comes from the valve to 3' above the head. Attached to the end of the cable is a male
waterproof NEMA5-15P electrical plug (the female receptacle for the helicopter is attached). If an
additional new plug is required, an IP67 or better must be used.
CAUTION
Changing the supplied plug and/or receptacle to a non-waterproof (non-IP67) alternative will
compromise the hermetic seal of the IVC and actuator enclosures. This may lead to water ingress and
failure. Changing the connector(s) may void the warranty.
The purpose of this type of plug is to offer a clean breakaway if the Bambi MAX must be jettisoned from
the aircraft in an emergency. It is suggested that the plug be lightly taped together with vinyl tape, while
in use, to ensure that wind action does not separate the plug during flight.
There are three types of suggested wiring installations (see Section 10: Drawings).
1. Pilot control: In this configuration, the control is wired into the pilot's control column
through a relay.
2. Pilot control (US interagency): In this configuration, the control is wired into the pilot's
control column through a 50 ampere relay as per US interagency regulations. This system
can also be used to control a heli-torch, etc.
3. Crew control (remote power supply): This configuration allows a crew member or a pilot
to control the dumping of the bucket using a battery pack to supply the power to the remote
switch. This also eliminates the cost of pre-wiring the aircraft.
Confirm the aircraft has been wired correctly by using the supplied test plug and following the procedure
detailed in Section 6 for checking aircraft wiring.
Below is a table which shows the power requirements for the Bambi MAX valve and PowerFill system
(optional) by bucket model.
Current @24.5 VDC

Model
Valve PowerFill
BBXHL4000 8A 180 A
BBXHL5000 8A 180 A
BBXHL7600 8A 180 A
BBXHL9800 8A 180 A

Longlines
NOTICE
If using a longline, the minimum recommended length is 50 ft (15 m).
When using a longline, care must be taken in selecting the correct gauge of control cable. See the chart
below for recommendations.
Wire Length Connectors

Wire Type
Feet Meters Top Bottom
0–100 0–30 14/3 SOW NEMA 5-15P NEMA 5-15R
100–200 30–61 12/3 SOW NEMA 5-15P NEMA 5-15R
When purchasing a synthetic rope longline, it is recommended that the customer also purchase a
protective cover and have the conduit inserted at the time of manufacture. However, if this is not feasible
due to different conduits for different applications, it is recommended to tape the conduit using duct tape
(grey) at 3-4 ft intervals along the longline and cover.
It is not recommended to use zip ties to attach wiring/conduit as this tends to damage the cover and
longline. When attaching conduit, allowances must be made for any stretch in the load bearing line and
this must be taken into account when attaching to ensure that the terminations are not released from the
belly, bucket or hook, etc.
It is also imperative to take extreme care when removing the conduit from the longline, especially if a
knife is used to remove the tape as one could inadvertently cut through the cover and the damage the
synthetic rope. It is important to remember that when conduit is duct taped to the outside of a longline,
the flight characteristics can change. In our experience, it may take some time and a few trial flights to
determine the length between attachment points of the conduit to the longline.

Checking Tail Rotor Clearance
WARNING
Using a Bambi bucket with insufficient tail rotor clearance could result in a tail rotor strike which
could result in serious injury or death.
When a Bambi MAX Bucket is attached directly to the helicopter cargo hook or attached using a longline
less than 50 ft (15 m) in length, it is important to confirm that there is adequate tail rotor clearance.
Before using the Bambi MAX Bucket, check the tail rotor clearance.
1. Determine the tail rotor length by measuring the distance from the cargo hook to the closest
point on the helicopter tail rotor.
2. Determine the bucket overall length from the following chart:
Overall Length
Model
No PowerFill With PowerFill
BBXHL4000 27’- 9” 8.46 m 28’- 3” 8.61 m
BBXHL5000 29’- 9” 9.07 m 30’- 3” 9.22 m
BBXHL7600 30’- 8” 9.35 m 31’- 2” 9.50 m
BBXHL9800 31’- 5” 9.58 m 31’- 11” 9.73 m
Lengths are accurate to within 1%.

Specifications subject to change.
To confirm the bucket overall length, stretch out the bucket on the ground, pulling the suspension
cables taut. Measure the distance from the shackle on the head to the bottom of the shell.
3. The tail rotor clearance is equal to the tail rotor length minus the bucket overall length.
4. The tail rotor clearance must be a minimum of 6” (0.15 m).
If the tail rotor clearance is insufficient, shorter suspension lines and deployment lines must be used and
can be ordered from SEI. Please specify the model and serial number when ordering

Instant Deployment System (IDS)

The instant deployment system uses a hub and spoke mechanism to automatically expand the mouth of
the bucket as soon as the weight of the Bambi MAX is taken up by the suspension cables.
When the bucket is full, the IDS deployment cable and hub restrainer cables should be slack as they
should not bear any load. Their function is to position the hub and spoke mechanism to hold the bucket
open.
Correct IDS position.
To deploy the IDS on the ground, reach in-to the bucket, grasp the hub of the IDS and pull outward fully
until the two restraining cables from the hub to the lower bucket shell are tight.
The IDS restraining cables are set at the factory and normally should not require any adjustment.

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Section 3: Accessories
Accessories are optional. Not included with the bucket.
PowerFill MAX
PowerFill MAX is a system which allows partial or complete bucket fills from a range of previously
inaccessible water sources as shallow as 18” (0.46 m). This includes streams, ponds, and low profile dip
tanks. It is available for bucket models HL4000 to HL9800.
PowerFill MAX is a system of four pumps mounted on the top
plate of the Bambi MAX valve. The blanking plates in the top
plate of the valve are removed and four screens are installed
onto the lower side of the valve plate. The pump assemblies
and motors are then attached to the screens on the top of the
valve plate.
When the bucket is immersed in water to the level of the top
plate of the valve, the pumps will draw water through the
screens and discharge into the bucket through one way flapper
valves.
The PowerFill MAX has four electrically driven pumps with a
combined output of 1700 USG/min (108 L/s). The pumps
require a 28 VDC power source capable of supplying 180 A.
This supply must be from the aircraft non-essential bus or from
a transformer / rectifier unit (TRU). The installation shall be
done in accordance with FAA Advisory Circulars AC43.13-1B *PowerFill cable sleeve not shown
and AC43.13-2A and any applicable aircraft manufacturer's
instructions. Refer to the Appendix of this manual for a wiring
diagram.
WARNING
Do not connect the PowerFill MAX system to any aircraft bus bar that is used for emergency or
essential loads. Before installation, do an electrical load analysis to ensure that the generator capacity
is adequate to operate the system and amend the aircraft electrical load to the new requirements.
The pump motors are controlled by solid state relays in

watertight control enclosures located between the motors.
The controllers include a time delay circuit to stagger the
starting of the motors to reduce the transient current load on
the aircraft power supply.
Not an accurate representation of 4-Pump

PowerFill Unit. Used for reference only.

Power is transmitted to the pump controllers via two pairs of

waterproof cables. A separate control cable supplies the
signal to start the pumps. At the top ends of the cables, quick
disconnect plugs will separate with minimal force in the
event of a load jettison. The cables are protected by a
PowerFill cable sleeve that is fixed at the top of the valve,
and the head.
See the following chart for recommended longline wire sizes for the PowerFill MAX.

Wire Type
1 x 18/2 SOW NEMA 5-20P NEMA 5-20R
0–100 0–30
2 x #4 WELDING APP 6326G6 APP 6326G6
101–150 30–45
151–200 46–61
On the bottom of the bucket, a standoff structure is installed

to provide an intake area that keeps the pumps clear of any
rocks and debris in the water source.
The pump is fully waterproof in operation to a depth of 10 ft
(3 m) and can run “dry” without damage.
PowerFill MAX can be supplied as original equipment, or it
can be added to an existing bucket.

Foam Injection Systems

Sacksafoam is a foam injection system that uses a pump to dispense a controlled amount of foam
concentrate from a reservoir into the water in the bucket. The operation of the Sacksafoam is controlled
by the pilot through a control unit, which is mounted in the cockpit. There are two models of Sacksafoam
available depending on the location of the foam concentrate reservoir.
Sacksafoam Bladder
The Sacksafoam Bladder uses a collapsible reservoir located

in the bucket. An internal check valve stops water from
flowing into the bladder and ensures that foam is dispensed
only while the injection pump is operating. Because the
foam in the bladder displaces the water in the bucket, the
total gross weight is always constant.
The Sacksafoam Bladder interfaces with the Sacksafoam
controller. Dispensing can be controlled directly from the
controller screen or a remote switch.
Bucket Reservoir Capacity Gross Weight

Part # Power
Model Imp Gal USG Liters lb kg
BBXHL4000 5A@
004340 60 72 272 327 146
BBXHL5000 28 VDC
See the following chart for recommended longline wire sizes for the Sacksafoam Bladder.

Wire Type
0–100 0–30 14/2 SOW NEMA 1-15P NEMA 1-15R
100–200 30–61 12/2 SOW NEMA 1-15P NEMA 1-15R

Sacksafoam Heli-Case
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case is a self-contained unit that can be

stowed onboard the helicopter. The foam concentrate is stored
in a 20 USG tank inside a large plastic case with provision for
an extra 5 USG container. The case is designed to prevent
foam from contacting the helicopter.
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case interfaces with the Sacksafoam

controller which can be mounted directly in the control panel
or externally by using the supplied blanking plate and
harnesses. Dispensing can be controlled directly from the
Sacksafoam controller screen or using the remote control grip.
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case can also interface with the Bambi MAX Bucket, allowing the bucket to be
actuated using the trigger on the remote control grip.
Bucket Reservoir Capacity Gross Weight

Part # Power
Model Imp Gal USG Liters lb kg
BBXHL4000 15 A @
012743 19 23 87 267 122
BBXHL5000 28 VDC
Foam Compatibility
The Bambi MAX is designed to be effective with foam. All materials used in the manufacture of the
Bambi MAX are resistant to the chemical action of foam.
NOTICE
After using foam or retardants, cycle through several dumps with water only or hose down with fresh
water to prolong the bucket life.

Power Pack
The Bambi Power Pack is a 24VDC, rechargeable power supply that
allows the Bambi Bucket or Bambi MAX to be operated
independently of the aircraft power.
The plastic case contains a NiMH battery pack and battery charger.
The charger operates on either a 120V/60Hz or 240V/50Hz mains
power supply. Two power cords are included. One has a NEMA 1-
5P plug and the other has a CEE7/16 Europlug.
The Power Pack also includes a dump switch harness to operate the
bucket valve, a bucket wiring harness to connect to the bucket, and
a grounding harness to ground the system to the airframe to
eliminate static charge buildup. All of the wiring harnesses and
power cords are stowed inside of the case.
A manually operated circuit breaker located on the front of the case
can be used to disconnect the battery power from the bucket
harness.
Bucket Power Pack Specifications Gross Weight

Model* Part # Type Output Capacity lb kg
BBXHL4000
BBXHL5000
008282 NiMH 24 VDC 3 AH 16 7
BBXHL7600
BBXHL9800


Section 4: Making Adjustments

Adjusting Components
Valve Adjustment
The valve tube has seals located on the top and bottom of the tube. The vertical position of the tube when
in the closed position determines the amount of valve sealing. The valve is adjusted at the factory to its
correct position and should not require field adjustment under normal conditions.
Following major valve maintenance such as seal replacement or drive cable replacement, the valve
adjustment should be checked. If the valve is adjusted too high, it will leak. If the valve is adjusted too
low, the motor protection circuit may be activated.
Determine the current state of valve adjustment as follows:

1. Power up the bucket circuit to allow the valve to move to the closed position.
• If the indicator lamp flashes green or the cable drum / sensor cam oscillates when the
valve is closed, then the valve is adjusted too low.
2. Actuate the bucket dump switch and hold to keep the valve in the open position.
• If the indicator lamp flashes green or the cable drum / sensor cam oscillates when the
valve is open, then the valve is adjusted too high.
The adjustment procedure is as follows:

1. Power up the bucket circuit to allow the valve to
close.
2. Remove power from the bucket circuit.
3. With the valve in the closed position, locate the set
screw on the top of the sensor cam which locks the
cam to the cable drum. It should be at
approximately the 12 o'clock position.
4. Notice particularly the location of the 9 o'clock hole
with respect to the cable anchor block. It is helpful
to draw a reference line on the sensor cam to a
reference point on the anchor block.
5. Loosen the set screw on the sensor cam using a 3/32" hex key.
6. If the valve is too low, adjust the valve upwards by rotating the sensor cam counter-clockwise
so that your reference line moves approximately 1/16" (1.6 mm). Tighten the set screw.
7. If the valve is too high, adjust the valve downwards by rotating the sensor cam clockwise so
that your reference line moves approximately 1/16" (1.6 mm). Tighten the set screw.

8. After adjustment, power up the bucket circuit.

• The valve should move to the closed position.
• The indicator light should have a steady yellow colour.
• The cable drum / sensor cam should not oscillate.
9. Actuate the bucket dump switch and hold.
• The valve should move to the open position.
• The indicator light should have a steady green colour.
• The cable drum / sensor cam should not oscillate.
10. Release the dump switch to allow the valve to close.
11. Re-adjust the valve as necessary until the correct open and close conditions are met.
12. Check to see if set screw is tight.
13. Note the position of the reference line or draw a new line at the correctly adjusted position.

Section 5: Packing and Storage

Packing
NOTICE
Always leave the valve open one to two inches as this prevents the bottom seal from collapsing during
long periods of storage, leading to longer seal life.
1. Open the valve 1 inch.
2. Collapse the IDS by pushing the hub into the bucket.
3. If you can’t collapse the IDS as shown, a 4 x 4 block

or a series of blocks can be used to assist you. Place
the blocks as shown, lift the bucket upright and the
IDS will collapse.

4. Grab the control head and pull the suspension lines

taut. Tape the lines together in two bunches.
5. Insert the operations manual into the storage bag.
6. Gather the suspension lines into a coil and stow

inside the bucket.
7. Place the head on top of the collapsed bucket.

8. Roll the bucket into a bundle and wrap with straps

supplied.
9. Rotate the shell until the head is under the shell.
10. Take the carrying bag and drape it over the bucket.
11. Roll the bucket over and insert the manual.

12. Close with zipper and store with label showing.
Storage
Prior to storage, wash the bucket with fresh water and dry completely to prevent the growth of mildew
and the corrosion of aluminium and steel parts. If the bucket is used in saltwater, or with firefighting
foam or retardant, take extra care when cleaning to remove all contaminants. Salt, foam, and retardant
can accelerate corrosion and degradation of materials if not removed. If necessary, a mild detergent can
be applied to remove stubborn build-up. Store the bucket indoors and out of direct sunlight.
The Bambi MAX carrying bag makes a suitable shipping container when shipping via airfreight. Because
of the compactness of the Bambi Bucket, many operators carry it aboard the helicopter at all times during
the fire season. This allows for rapid deployment when required.

Section 6: Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Troubleshooting
Valve Troubleshooting
Problem Status Lamp Possible Cause Solution
Circuit breaker tripped Reset circuit breaker.

No power ○ Off
Aircraft / longline wiring Check aircraft / longline wiring.
Aircraft / longline wiring Check aircraft / longline wiring.
Circuit Mechanical jam Clear jam / check linkage.

Breaker ○ Off
Trips Valve adjusted too high Adjust valve down.
Valve adjusted too low Adjust valve up.
No open signal Check aircraft / longline wiring.

● Yellow
Controller failure Contact service centre.
Valve Closed
Won’t Open ● Green Damaged drive cable Replace drive cable.
Flashing
☀ Red
Sensor failure Contact service centre.
Check bucket plug.

Aircraft / longline wiring
Check aircraft / longline wiring.
● Green
Valve Open Controller failure Contact service centre.
Won’t close
● Yellow Damaged drive cable Replace drive cable.
Flashing
☀ Red
Sensor failure Contact service centre.
Damaged seals Replace seals.

● Yellow
Valve Leaks Valve adjusted too high Adjust valve down.
● Red Mechanical Jam Clear jam / check linkage.

Long Dump
Time
● Red Valve adjusted too low Adjust valve up.

Checking Aircraft / Longline Wiring
The aircraft and longline wiring may be checked using the supplied test plug. Use the following test
procedure:
1. Install the test plug into the receptacle of the
helicopter wiring harness.
2. Power up the bucket circuit.
• The left LED should be extinguished.
• The right LED should be illuminated green.
3. Actuate the bucket dump switch.

• The left LED should be illuminated green.
• The right LED should be illuminated green.
Any other LED combination indicates that the aircraft is not wired correctly. See Section 10:
Drawings for the appropriate wiring schematic.
If a longline is being used, re-connect the longline into the aircraft wiring harness and repeat the above
procedure for the receptacle on the bottom of the longline.

Maintenance Procedures
In addition to the daily pre-flight inspections as outlined in the operations manual, follow the weekly
inspection procedure for times when the bucket is in continuous use.
Bambi MAX Bucket Weekly Inspection Checklist
1. Check all parts of the system for visible damage or defects.

2. Check for excessive movement in the valve linkage.
If excessive side movement develops in the linkage,
the bolts (with arrows) must be tightened. Do not
overtighten these bolts as they must be turned with
only a small amount of force. Once tightened, try to
move the linkage from side to side. There should be
no movement.
3. Check top and bottom valve seals.
PowerFill Weekly Inspection Checklist
4. Check all parts of the system for visible damage or defects

5. Clean all debris from the pump motor impellers and debris screens.
6. Assess the function of the pumps by running them.
CAUTION
Disconnect power to the pump motor before performing visual inspection of pump impeller.
1. Inspect pump impellers for signs of damage, particularly on the leading (lower) edge of the
impeller blades.
2. Inspect the one-way flapper valves for cuts or tears.
3. Inspect the entire length of all electrical cables for damage. Immediately repair any damage
to the conductor cable installation.
4. Ensure each cable connector is securely attached to its cable and free from cracks or damage.

Section 7: Repair Assessment Guide


Overview of Repair Categories
This section is intended to provide the user with information that will allow for the quick repair
assessment evaluation of the Bambi Bucket. The repair assessment process is almost identical for all
sizes of the Bambi Buckets, with some exceptions for minor bucket design variations between the models.
This section also offers specific guidelines that sort the component defects into one of three categories:
Safety, Operational, and Monitor. Use the guideline definitions to determine how urgently a repair
should be carried out.
Category 1: Safety
All defects in this category must be repaired immediately before further operation of the Bambi Bucket
occurs. Ignoring defects in this category could result in personal injury or damage to equipment. These
defects can compromise the following functions of the Bambi Bucket: structural integrity, flight stability,
water release, and flight safety.
Category 2: Operational
All defects in this category should be repaired before the next operational day or approximately eight
hours of flight time. The defects do not compromise the safety of the bucket but may lead to Category 1
defects, if not addressed within a short time frame.
Category 3: Monitor
Many defects such as wear, abrasion, and minor impact damage do not need urgent attention. Defects of
this nature should be monitored daily and repaired before they progress to a Category 2 defect.
NOTICE
It is impossible to provide a recommended service time frame as some buckets are used often while
others are used only rarely. In addition, buckets are shifted between operators, making it difficult to
track usage. If you are unsure of your bucket’s status, check with any Bambi Bucket Service Centre, in
your area, for more information and assistance.

Head Repair Criteria

Category 1: Safety
Cease operations and repair immediately.

• Any visible crack or break on the head.
• Visibly bent shackles.
• Broken or missing safety wire on shackle pins.
• Broken or exposed electrical conductors.
• Broken or missing break-away plug.

Cables Repair Criteria

Category 1: Safety

• One or more broken suspension cables or end fittings.
• Broken deployment cable.
Repair before next day’s operation or eight hours flight time.

If three or more individual suspension cables or the deployment cable have the
following defects:
• 10 or more randomly distributed broken strands or four adjacent broken strands
• Visible kink(s).
• Separation of the strands due to twisting (known as “bird-caging”).
• Evidence of heat damage.
• Abrasion wear comprising of more than 1/3 of the original diameter of the outside individual
strands.
• Any visible reduction in outside diameter due to overload.
• Cracked or broken end fittings (some elongation of cable eyes is acceptable).
Category 3: Monitor
Monitor and/or repair if condition deteriorates.

• Wear, broken strands, kinks, and twisting in cable that do not exceed the limits defined in
Category 2 defects.

M-Straps/Top Chains Repair Criteria

Category 1: Safety
• Broken top chains.

• Broken or missing shackles.
• Two or more broken M-straps.
• M-straps with more than 25% of the fabric strands broken.

• Visibly worn top chains.
• Bent, gouged, worn or cracked shackles and shackle pins.
Category 3: Monitor
• Damage to an M-strap that does not exceed 25% of the fabric.

• Minor wear, impact marks, or corrosion on chains.
• Minor wear, impact marks, or corrosion on shackles.

IDS Hub Repair Criteria

Category 1: Safety
• Cracks or breaks across the major section of the IDS hub.

• Two or more broken or cracked spoke brackets.
• Two or more broken or missing spokes, clevis pins, shell brackets.
• Three or more bent spokes (bends in excess of 20 degrees = broken).
• One broken or cracked spoke bracket on IDS hub.

• One broken or missing spoke.
• One broken or missing clevis pin or shell bracket.
• Up to two bent spokes.
Category 3: Monitor
• Wear on IDS hub.

• Dents, abrasions, and wear on spokes.
• Clevis pin and shell bracket wear.

Bucket Shell Repair Criteria

Category 1: Safety
• One or more broken top loop knots (M-strap attachment point to the shell).
• Gross punctures through shell that cut or severely damage one or more panel strips.
• Separation of fabric welds longer than 3” (76 mm).
• Punctures or cuts through shell longer than 3” (76 mm).
• Two or more broken bottom webbing loops.
• Top loop knots that are worn or have damage to more than 25% of the fabric.
• Cuts, punctures, or weld separations less than 3” and/or cut through more than 25% of a panel
strip.
• Bottom webbing loops with more than 25% damage to fabric strands.
• Broken or missing bottom webbing protective wear strips.
• Five or more broken battens.
Category 3: Monitor
• Wear, abrasions, and cuts to the bucket shell fabric isolated to one side of the material that do not
cut through.
• Wear, abrasions, and cuts to the webbing loops, strips, and top loop knots that involve less than
25% of the fabric strands on any portion of the affected webbing.
• Wear and abrasions to webbing protective strips.
• Up to 4” (102 mm) of peeled weld on panel strip.
• Up to four broken battens.

Section 8: Repairs
Section 8: Repairs
Rigging Repairs
Suspension Line Replacement
A suspension line should be replaced whenever it displays noticeable kinking or fraying. Factory
replacement lines come pre-swaged with connection links to make replacing quick and easy.
To remove the connecting link between the suspension line
and the M-strap, follow these procedures.
1. Locate a metal bar with a 5/16" hole (or drill a 5/16"
hole into any metal bar). If you are unable to locate
a metal bar, a wooden block will work, however,
make sure to drill the hole into the end grain.
2. Place the connecting link with the pin located over

the hole and using a 3/16" punch, drive pin through
the center holding sleeve.
3. After the pin is free, remove the old suspension line.

Place the new line in the connecting link by
inserting the pin into one side of the connecting link.
Using a hammer, drive the pin in until it is flush
with both sides of the connecting link.

Section 8: Repairs
M-Strap Replacement
Replace M-straps if they become noticeably worn. If the M-straps are frayed, they can be repaired by
melting the fray with a lighter to stop the fray from spreading. The length of the M-strap is critical to the
Bambi MAX Bucket functioning correctly. It is recommended that you replace worn straps with factory-
supplied equipment.
There are two types of straps. The short straps are vertical and are a continuous loop. The long straps are
diagonal and have a loop on each end.
Long straps (diagonal)
Short straps (vertical)
Replace one set of straps at a time to avoid confusion.

1. Cut off the old strap from the shackle.
2. Using needle nose pliers, insert the tip under the top
webbing layer.
3. Fully insert the pliers at the far left hand side of the
top layer.

Section 8: Repairs
1. Holding the pliers tight, turn your hand clockwise.

Repeat the operation until the knot is loose enough
to remove the strap.
2. Complete step ‘a’ or ‘b’ depending on whether the strap is short or long.
a. For short straps, grasp the strap and rotate until
the joint is centered.
b. For long straps, locate the center of the strap and

fold back to form a loop.
3. Pass the loop of the strap through the loop on the top
of the bucket.

Section 8: Repairs
4. Twist the strap loop eye 180 degrees.
5. Rotate the eye to the opposite side.
6. Pull strap end through the eye.
7. Pull strap tight.

Section 8: Repairs
8. The M strap set should now look like this. The

suspension line attaches to the top of each M-strap
set.
IDS Replacement
Shell Bracket
Hub
Spoke
The IDS can be replaced either as a complete kit or as individual pieces, as required. See Section 9:
Specifications and Parts for detailed parts drawings. Follow the procedure below to replace the entire
assembly.
1. Disconnect the valve’s electrical harness from the head and pass the cable through the IDS
hub.
2. Disconnect the IDS restrainer cables from the cable restrainer brackets in the shell.
3. Disconnect the IDS deployment cable from the head.
4. Remove the pins which secure the outer ends of the spokes to the shell brackets. Remove the
IDS assembly from the bucket.
5. Inspect the shell brackets and replace as necessary.
6. With the ballast oriented at the 6 o’clock position, rotate the new IDS assembly so that the
deployment cable faces upward at the 3 o’clock position.
7. Attach the two spokes at either side of the 12 o’clock position using the stainless steel clevis
pins. Working around the bucket perimeter, attach the rest of the spokes.

Section 8: Repairs
8. Once the IDS is fully installed, test for fit. You should be able to pull the hub past the
midpoint position with a slight effort. If the IDS is either too loose or too tight, it will require
adjustment. If the IDS is too tight, adjust as follows:
a. Cut off one spoke just above the existing hole on one end only. Redrill a new hole
centered the same distance from the new end of the spoke as the other spokes.
Replace the spoke and check for fit.
b. If the IDS is still too tight remove another spoke directly across from the first
modified spoke and repeat the previous step.
9. Pass the tripline through the hub and re-attach to the dump valve
10. Attach the IDS deployment cable to the control head small adjustment chain.
11. Attach the IDS restrainer cables.
Bottom Loop Repairs
If the bottom loops, which hold the chain, become worn, the frays can be melted with a lighter to prevent
them from spreading. If the bottom loops require replacement, they should receive an overlay of heavy
duty wear-resistant webbing.

Section 8: Repairs
Valve Repair and Replacement

Valve Removal
Whenever any valve maintenance, such as seal changes or maintenance on the valve cycling, must be
done, it is recommended that you remove the valve from the Bambi MAX shell. To remove the valve,
follow the procedure listed below:
1. Make sure that the ballast is on the bottom of the
shell before removing the valve. Detach the power
cable from the head and IDS deployment cable, coil
the cable into an 18" coil and place it inside the top
of the shell.
2. Detach one or two spokes from the shell. These

spokes should be in the 3 to 5 o'clock location.
3. Push the spoke into the bucket and attach to the

opposite spoke.

Section 8: Repairs
4. Remove the four bolts holding the valve to the

bottom plate.
5. Remove the valve from the shell and move to the

repair area.
Valve Installation
The following procedure will allow one person to easily install the valve.
1. Make sure the ballast is still at the bottom. Roll the
valve through the opening. Roll the valve to the
base of the shell.
2. Place the valve inside the valve-guard. Rotate the

valve until the control box and actuator are in the
position shown.

Section 8: Repairs
3. Install the four 3/8" bolts on the base of the valve.

Some rotation may be necessary to line up the
standoffs to the bottom plate holes.
4. String the control cable. Before unrolling the coil of

cable, pass it through the center of the IDS hub.
5. Stretch the control cable out between the shell and

the head. Check to make sure you have at least 6" of
slack in the control cable before attaching the cable
to the head with four tie wraps.

Section 8: Repairs
Bottom Seal Replacement
To change the bottom seal, it is recommended that the valve be pulled from the shell although it is not
necessary to detach the control cable from the IDS deployment line. Depending on circumstances, the
seal can be replaced while the valve is next to the shell, but the valve should be placed on a clean level
surface such as a piece of cardboard or plywood.
To remove the valve, please refer to the valve removal section in the maintenance section of this manual.
Once the valve has been removed, follow the procedure below.
1. To make the valve more stable, open the valve until
the top of the tube is level with the top of the motor
and cut the power to keep it in this location.
2. Turn the valve over.
3. Loosen the two tension clamps and lower the clamps

into the position shown in this picture.
4. Remove the seal and clean any debris from the
bottom of the tube and groove.

Section 8: Repairs
5. Install the replacement seal over the valve tube and

move the clamp into position. Make sure that the
tensioner clamps are located between the lift bar
bolts.
6. Tighten the tensioner clamps. Make sure to tighten
each clamp equally as this will eliminate a problem
of the clamp releasing as one of the tensioners is not
engaged enough to hold the clamp.
Top Seal Replacement
To change the top seal, the valve does not need to be removed from the shell.
To remove the valve, please refer to the valve removal section in the maintenance section of this manual.
Once the valve has been removed, follow the directions below.
Tools required: Allen key 1/8"
1. To replace the top seal with the valve still in the
bucket, first detach the control cable from the head
and the IDS deployment cable and hub. Coil the
cable up and place it inside the top of the shell.
2. Remove all the socket head cap screws which secure

the top clamp ring and top seal to the valve tube.

Section 8: Repairs
3. Remove the top ring and pass the coiled control

cable through the middle of the ring. Take the ring
and old seal out of the shell.
4. Place the ring on a level surface with all bolts
inserted into the ring. Slip the new seal over the
bolts.
5. Pass the control cable through the ring, making sure

to pass the cable through from the seal side.
6. Return the ring with seal to the shell.
7. Start all bolts into the tube, turning them in about

1/8". This allows you to locate the holes in the tube
easier by lifting the ring and seal to see the holes.
8. Tighten all bolts equally as they are going into
plastic. Do not over tighten as you would in metal.
9. String the control line and, before unrolling the coil

of cable, pass it through the center of the IDS hub.
Once all the cable is outside the bucket with no
slack, push it 6" back into the bucket. Now, using
tie-wraps, attach the cable to the deployment cable
eye on the hub. Use at least two tie-wraps.

Section 8: Repairs
10. Reattach the control cable to the IDS deployment

cable using tie-wraps or tape spaced about 36" apart.
At the head, the final attachment will be at the IDS
cable shackle.
Drive Cable Replacement
If the helicopter is not available as a power and activator source, a 24-28 VDC power source can be used.
Connect the negative line to the narrow blade on the plug and the positive to the round pin. The valve
will be in the closed position. To open the valve, jumper a wire from the round plug to the wide blade. If
the valve doesn't operate, check that the wiring in the plug hasn't been changed. Open the plug and check
the green wire which should go to the green screw, black wire to brass screw, and white wire to silver
screw.
The drive cable can be replaced with the valve in the bucket but, if you are doing other maintenance work
on the valve, it will be easier to change the cable outside the bucket.
1. Cut the cable below the lift bar.
2. Remove the cable retainer from the lift bar.
3. Remove the cable by pulling the unswaged end
through the sheave and lift bar.
4. To remove the cable ends from the cable anchors,

the motor will have to be started and stopped when a
cable anchor is close to the top. Loosen the two
cable anchor screws and pull the cable through.
5. Activate the motor again to get the second cable
anchor to the top. Loosen the two cable anchor
screws and pull the cable out.

Section 8: Repairs
NOTICE
Use cyanoacrylate glue on the ends of the new cable, to prevent fraying.
6. Examine the new drive cable to determine the

shorter end.
7. Insert the short end of the drive cable into the cable
retainer.
8. Insert the long end of the cable through the hole in
the lift bar.
9. Secure the cable retainer to the lift bar.
10. Trim the short end of the drive cable and insert the
cable through the cable bushing.

Section 8: Repairs
11. Connect the control cable to a 24-28 volt DC power

source, open the valve about a 1/3 of the way and
cut the power. The cable anchor should be close to
the position shown in this picture. Feed the cable
through the cable anchor, pull it snug but do not
tighten.
12. Install a 7/16" spacer plate between the sheave bar

and lift bar. Place a heavy weight on the lift bar to
hold it down.
Weight
7/16” spacer
13. Turn on the power. The valve will close. Pull the
cable tight and secure with cable anchor screws.
14. Install a piece of 1/8" x 1" heat shrink over the cable
next to the anchor. Cut off the excess cable as close
to cable anchor as possible.

Section 8: Repairs
15. Remove the weight and spacer from the lift bar,
install the cable over the five sheaves and trim the
end of the cable.
16. Pass the cable to the inside of the carrier cross bolt,
through the cable bushing in the top plate.
17. Turn on the power and open the valve to its fully
open position. Install the cable through the second
cable anchor and, then, pull the cable tight and
secure with cable anchor screws. Install a piece of
1/8" x 1" heat shrink over the cable next to the
anchor. Cut off the excess cable as close to cable
anchor as possible.
18. Adjust valve to correct position (see Section 4:
Making Adjustments for more information).

Section 8: Repairs
Guide Bushing Replacement
To change the guide bushings, follow the steps listed below.

1. Open the valve about halfway.
2. Remove the two bolts holding the old bushing in
place and remove the old bushing.
3. Place the new bushing into position.
4. Insert the bolts, attach the nuts, and tighten.
5. Run the valve up and down. If any slowing of the valve movement or jamming is noticed,
loosen the bolts on one bushing and pull it away from the guide rod, towards the center of the
valve, to allow some clearance between the bushing and guide rod, then re-tighten the bolts.
6. If slowing or jamming still occurs, loosen the guide bushing bolts on the opposite side and
repeat the operations of step 5.

Section 8: Repairs
Shell Repairs
CAUTION
Please read these instructions carefully and follow them exactly to obtain a good repair. Failure to
follow these instructions or poor repair workmanship can lead to failed repairs and/or more damage to
the bucket.
Tools and materials to perform shell repairs can be found in Section 9: Specifications and Parts.
Temporary Repairs with Sealing Clamps
Repair clamps are used for an immediate repair to prevent the loss of liquid through large rips or holes.
For example, if a vehicle accidentally backed into a bucket and caused a 3" (76 mm) long rip in the
bucket, a repair clamp could be inserted to stop the loss of liquid. Repair clamps are only used for
temporary repairs. The damage should be permanently repaired with a patch when the bucket can be set
aside for 24 hours.
1. Select the largest clamp that will just slip through the hole in the item. The size of cut or hole
will determine the size of the sealing clamp to use:
• For a cut or hole up to 2" (5 cm), use a 3" (7.6 cm) clamp.
• For a cut or hole up to 4" (10 cm), use a 5" (12.7 cm) clamp.
• For a cut or hole up to 6" (15 cm), use a 7.5" (19 cm) clamp.
2. Keeping hold of the string, slip one half of the repair

clamp through the hole as indicated.
3. Pull the bolt up through the hole. Turn it until the

clamp lines up with the hole.

Section 8: Repairs
4. Place the top of the clamp over the bolt.
NOTICE
Leaving the clamp’s string on makes it easier to remove the repair clamp when placing a permanent
patch on the bucket.
NOTICE
Tightening the nut with tools may break the bolt away from the lower clamp. Overtightening can also
deform the clamp and cause leaks.
Temporary Repairs Using Glue
Before commencing repairs using glue, the weather should be warm (above 60 °F or 15 °C) and dry. In
conditions of high humidity, a proper technique is essential for securing the bond strength desired. The
presence of surface moisture can destroy the effectiveness of the cemented bond.
The evaporation of solvent from the adhesive may reduce surface temperature below the dew point
resulting in condensation of water vapour on the surface of the adhesive. This is often visible as fogging
or a milky white appearance on the surface. The use of a solvent to clean the surface prior to cementing
can also reduce temperatures below the dew point.
To overcome the high humidity problem, raise the temperature of the patch area. This can be
accomplished with a warm air fan.
WARNING
Glue vapours are highly explosive! Explosive vapours may occur causing fire and/or injury. Keep
away from all sparks, flame, lighters or cigarettes.
Solvent and glue are both extremely hazardous. Use solvent and glue under well ventilated conditions
only.
Use an approved respirator mask to avoid breathing fumes.
When using a warm air fan, either use one which is rated EXPLOSION PROOF or make sure that there
is a steady flow of air past the work area to remove fumes as they are generated.

Section 8: Repairs
NOTICE
Try a test repair before attempting to repair the bucket. This will verify your technique without risking
damage to the bucket. It is much harder to fix a repair once a failed attempt has been made as the
hardened glue is difficult to remove.
Damage to the outer fabric coating, or pinholes which are not leaking, can be repaired with glue only. To
perform this type of repair, follow these steps:
1. Fill the weight bag with water prior to beginning repairs.
2. Clean the area to be repaired with an abrasive pad
dampened with solvent. Remove all traces of
masking tape, if previously used. If possible, place
a piece of masking tape on the back side of the item
being repaired.
3. Paint the damaged area with glue. Use a thick coat

of glue, overlapping the edges of the repair by 1" (25
mm). Be sure that the edges are well coated. A
damaged coating should be given two coats of glue.
Apply the second coat within four hours of the first
coat.
Damage to the base fabric must be repaired with a patch. To perform this type of repair, follow these
steps:
4. If there is dampness around the area to be patched,
dry the area with a hot air fan or heat gun. Any
loose coating should be cut back with scissors.
Support the damaged area on a flat, solid platform.
This platform should be strong enough to support
the fabric (flat) and allow the patch to be rolled once
it is in place.

Section 8: Repairs
5. Scrub the damaged area with an abrasive pad

dampened with solvent (isopropyl rubbing alcohol is
recommended). Scrub vigorously to remove the
cured surface. The area should be clean and dry
with a dull matte finish.
6. Wipe with a rag, dampened with solvent, to remove any residue from cleaning. Check to see
if the area is totally clean and all coated surfaces and edges are dull. If not, repeat the
cleaning. This is critical for a good glue bond.
CAUTION
Solvent will damage the fabric if too much is used or if the fabric is left exposed to solvent residue.
7. Cut a patch at least 2" (50 mm) larger in every

direction from the damaged area. A round patch is
recommended but, if a rectangular patch covers the
damage better, then round all corners. Clean the
patch by scrubbing with a pad dampened with
solvent. Rub vigorously to remove the gloss from
the fabric. Clean both sides of the patch, as it is
easy to get the patch turned over during installation.
The colour of the patch will vary depending on the
product repair kit.
8. Apply glue to the patch and damaged area. Wait 30 minutes (at 75 °F or 22 °C) for some of
the solvent to evaporate from the glue. The glue should become thicker but still be quite wet.
If it has been allowed to dry too long, give both sides another thin coat. If the glue has dried
too long, it will be difficult to avoid entrapping air bubbles in the bonded joint.
9. Place the center of the patch down first, then roll it

out towards the edges with the roller. This expels
trapped air. Once the patch is rolled down, do not
let it lift up. This will prevent air from getting under
the patch which causes a weak bond.

Section 8: Repairs
10. Place a plastic cover sheet over the patch followed

by a weight bag for 12 hours at room temperature.
Remove the weight bag and leave to dry for 24
hours.
11. If the patch will be subjected to abrasion after 24

hours, paint over the patch with glue. Painting the
patch also provides protection from ultraviolet light
and weather. Allow the bond to harden for 24 hours
at room temperature before using the item.
NOTICE
Allow repair to harden for 24 hours at room temperature before using the item.
Repairs will likely fail if:
• The area to be repaired is not perfectly clean and scrubbed to a matte finish before applying
the patch.
• Repairs are attempted during wet or cold weather.
• The glue and patch are not properly placed, creating air bubbles between the glue and the
patch.
• The patch is not weighed down for 24 hours.
• The bucket is used before the glue has set.
NOTICE
Aquaseal® urethane adhesive is designed for use on fabrics like the Bambi MAX Bucket shell. The
shelf life of this adhesive is about one year. Fresh adhesive can be obtained directly from SEI
Industries Ltd.

Section 8: Repairs
Hot Air Gun Patching
Hot air gun patching is the preferred method because it provides the most durable, permanent repair
possible.
Tools and materials required:
• Patches
• Plastic hand-held roller
• Hot air gun with wide surface nozzle
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Scissors
WARNING
It is extremely dangerous to use a hot air gun in the presence of flammable fumes such as gasoline or
paint thinner. There is a high risk of explosion and/or burns.
CAUTION
Injury, especially to hands and fingers, can occur when using a hot air gun. Most welding will occur at
temperatures of 800-1000 °F. Wear gloves to protect skin from overheating, burning and blistering.
The procedure for hot air patching is as follows:

1. In a well-ventilated location, clean the area to be
repaired as well as one side of the patch with an
abrasive pad. Wipe down the repair area and patch
with isopropyl alcohol.
2. Mount a wide surface air nozzle on the hot air gun to
direct the heat flow in a large pattern. Turn the
power on, adjust the temperature in the low range
first and let the hot air gun warm up. Increase the
temperature as required during the operation.
CAUTION
Overheating can occur quickly and can damage the product. It’s recommended that you test, using the
supplied fabric samples, to determine the correct temperature to be used and the duration of heat to be
applied.

Section 8: Repairs
3. Starting from the center of the patch (held down by

the roller), concentrate the heat flow equally to patch
and fabric. Apply a light pressure with the roller
when the fabric starts melting. This can be seen as
small bubbles.
4. Roll the patch down to fuse it to the fabric, moving
roller and gun simultaneously. Repeat on the
unfused portion of the patch. Let the repaired area
cool down. Attempt to peel off at the edges with
your fingers. If there is even a slight peel, repeat the
operation locally. Otherwise, the repair is finished.

Section 9: Specifications and Parts

Capacity and Weight Specifications
Capacities and weights are accurate to within 5%. Specifications are subject to change.
CAUTION
The selection of a Bambi bucket model for a specific aircraft is dependent on many factors including
aircraft weight, fuel weight, operation elevation, and atmospheric conditions.
The helicopter operator must select a bucket model which is appropriate for their specific situation.
The operator must also ensure that the bucket selected does not pose a tail rotor strike hazard.
Bambi MAX Bucket
Capacity Empty Weight Gross Weight

Model
Imp Gal US Gal Liters lb kg lb kg
BBXHL4000 880 1060 4000 380 170 9180 4160
BBXHL5000 1100 1320 5000 400 180 11400 5170
BBXHL7600 1670 2010 7600 490 220 17210 7800
BBXHL9800 2160 2590 9800 550 250 22110 10030
Bambi MAX Bucket with PowerFill MAX
Capacity Empty Weight Gross Weight

Model
Imp Gal US Gal Liters lb kg lb kg
BBXHL4000PF 880 1060 4000 560 250 9360 4240
BBXHL5000PF 1100 1320 5000 580 260 11570 5250
BBXHL7600PF 1670 2010 7600 670 300 17390 7890
BBXHL9800PF 2160 2590 9800 730 330 22280 10110

Parts
Head, Models HL4000 – HL5000
ITEM PART # DESCRIPTION QTY

0 005750 HEAD, ASSY 1
1 007273 HEAD, MEDIUM 1
2 001796 SHACKLE, ANCHOR, SCREW, 5/8, GLV 2
3 006310 SHACKLE, ANCHOR, SCREW, 3/4, ALLOY 1

Head, Models HL7600 – HL9800
ITEM PART # DESCRIPTION QTY

0 005751 HEAD, ASSY 1
1 007274 HEAD, LARGE 1
2 001793 SHACKLE, ANCHOR, SCREW, 7/8, GLV 2
3 009102 SHACKLE, ANCHOR, SCREW, 1’, ALLOY 1
4 002956 CLAMP, CABLE, 3/8” 1
5 000369 BOLT, HX, 1/4-20 X 3/4, SS 1

Suspension

Suspension (continued)
ITEM MODEL PART # DESCRIPTION QTY

BBXHL4000
005563
BBXHL5000
0 CABLE, SUSPENSION, SET 1
BBXHL7600 005566
BBXHL9800 005567
BBXHL4000
009859
BBXHL5000
CABLE, SUSPENSION, PAIR 4
BBXHL7600 009860
BBXHL9800 009861
1
BBXHL4000
009863
BBXHL5000
CABLE, SUSPENSION, SINGLE 2
BBXHL7600 009864
BBXHL9800 009865
BBXHL4000
2 004057 LINK, CONNECTOR, 9/32”, PLT 10
BBXHL5000
BBXHL4000
6
BBXHL5000
3 006710 LINK, CONNECTOR, 3/8”, PLT
BBXHL7600
16
BBXHL9800

Bucket Shell

Bucket Shell (continued)

BBXHL4000 008694
BBXHL5000 008695
0 SHELL, BAMBI, ASSY 1
BBXHL7600 008696
BBXHL9800 008697
BBXHL4000
005477
BBXHL5000
1 STRAP, M, LOOP 8
BBXHL7600 005479
BBXHL9800 005481
BBXHL4000
005478
BBXHL5000
2 STRAP, M, STRAIGHT 7
BBXHL7600 005480
BBXHL9800 005482
BBXHL4000
005530 CHAIN, TOP, 17-1/2”
BBXHL5000
3 2
BBXHL7600 005532 CHAIN, TOP, 26”
BBXHL9800 005540 CHAIN, TOP, 30”
BBXHL4000
005531 CHAIN, TOP, 20”
BBXHL5000 6
4
BBXHL7600 005534 CHAIN, TOP, 28-3/4”
BBXHL9800 005536 CHAIN, TOP, 33-1/4”
2
4A BBXHL9800 005538 CHAIN, TOP, 34-3/4”
BBXHL4000
013134 SHACKLE, ANCHOR, 5/16”, SCREW, SS
BBXHL5000
5 5
BBXHL7600
006710 LINK, CONNECTOR, 3/8”, PLT
BBXHL9800
6 ALL 005483 PROTECTOR, M STRAP 20

Bucket Shell – Battens, Wear Strips, & Bottom Chain

Bucket Shell – Battens, Wear Strips, & Bottom Chain (continued)

BBXHL4000
005439 BAR, FIBREGLASS, 1.5” X 68-1/2”
BBXHL5000
7 20
BBXHL7600 005441 BAR, FIBREGLASS, 1.5” X 82-1/2”
BBXHL9800 005443 BAR, FIBREGLASS, 1.5” X 94”
BBXHL4000
BBXHL5000
8 007772 STRIP, WEAR, ASSY 20
BBXHL7600
BBXHL9800
BBXHL4000
BBXHL5000
9 006649 CHAIN, BOTTOM, 5/16” X 80”, ASSY 1
BBXHL7600
BBXHL9800

Bucket Shell – Ballast Assembly

10 ALL 007195 BALLAST, ASSY 1

Bucket Shell – Valve Guard & Rings

11 007410 TAPE, BUTYL, BLK, 3/16 X 1/2 15
12 007139 RING, BASE, 28” 1
13 007142 RING, CLAMP, 28” 1
14 ALL 006890 GUARD, VALVE, 28” 1
15 000394 BOLT, HEX, 3/8-16 X 2, SS 20
16 001846 WASHER, FLAT, 0.39 X 1.00 X 0.125, SS 32
17 001665 NUT, HEX, NYLOCK, 3/8-16, SS 20

Valve Attachment

1 000391 BOLT, HEX, 3/8-16 X 1”, SS 4
ALL
2 001853 WASHER, LOCK, SPLIT, 3/8, SS 4

Valve

0 ALL 002300 VALVE, 28”, ASSY 1
1 016303 TUBE, VALVE, 28”, PART ASSY 1
2 016868 SEAL, VALVE, BTM, 28”, EPDM 1
3 011523 CLAMP, HOSE, 15-1/2”, SS 2
4 006369 SEAL, VALVE, TOP, 28” 1
5 007338 RING, SEAL, TOP, 28” 1
ALL
6 000009 BOLT, HEX, 1/4-28 X 29/32, CAD 4
7 000416 SCREW, SC, 6/32 X 1-1/4, SS 24
8 001833 WASHER, FLAT, 028 X 0.69 X 0.036, SS 4
001688 NUT, HEX, NYLOCK, 1/4-28, SS 4
10 016022 TAPE, SLIP-RESISTANT, 1” 7.33 ft

Valve – IVC Assembly

11 015278 IVC, ASSEMBLY 1
12 001606 SCREW, HXSL,10-24 X 3/4”, SS 2
ALL
13 001848 WASHER, LOCK, SPLIT, #10, SS 2
14 001843 WASHER, FLAT, #10 X 1/2, SS 2

Valve – Motor Assembly

15 015280 MOTOR, ASSY, 25”/28” 1
16 015270 DRUM, CABLE, 1/8” 1
17 015271 ANCHOR, CABLE 2
18 000223 CAM, SENSOR 1
19 001734 PIN, SPLIT, 1/8 X 3/8, SS 1
20 ALL 010735 SCREW, SET, CUP, NYL, 10-32 X 1/4, SS 1
21 000413 SCREW, SC, 6-32 X 5/8, SS 2
22 015287 SCREW, SC, 8-32 X 1/4, SS 4
23 001606 SCREW, 10-24 X 3/4, HXSL, SS 4
24 000281 BOLT, HX, 10-32 X 29/32, CAD 2

Valve – Blank Plate Assembly

26 ALL 005757 PLATE, BLANK, ASSY 4
27 007340 PLATE, BLANK, PUMP 4
28 005755 GASKET, PUMP 4
29 013295 BRACKET, SLEEVE 1
30 ALL 016136 CLAMP, CABLE, 5/16” 1
31 011530 SCREW, SC, 1/4-20 X 1, SS 2
32 005773 SCREW, SC, 1/4-20 X 1-1/2, SS 12
33 001688 NUT, HEX, NYLOCK, 1/4-20, SS 14

Valve – Sheave Bar & Guide Rods

34 015276 PLATE, TOP, 28” 1
35 015273 BUSHING, CABLE 2
36 000228 BAR, SHEAVE, 28” 1
37 001617 SHEAVE, CABLE 5
38 000232 ROD, GUIDE 2
39 000230 ROD, SUPPORT 2
40 007107 SPRING, DISC, 0.650 X 0.855 X 0.060, SS 4
41 ALL 005988 RING, RETAINER, EXT, 1/4” PLT 2
42 005214 RING, RETAINER, EXT, 5/8, SS 2
43 000012 BOLT, HEX, 10-32 X 1-17/32, CAD 5
44 002241 SCREW, FSC, 10-32 X 1-1/2, SS 4
46 006276 WASHER, FLAT, 0.64 X 1.19 X 0.060, SS 6
47 001685 NUT, HEX, NYLOCK, 10-32, SS 9
48 000391 BOLT, HEX, 3/8-16 X 1, SS 4

Valve – Lift Bar & Linkage

49 000235 BAR, LIFT, 28” 1
50 008661 ARM, LINKAGE, LONG 8
51 008663 ARM, CARRIER, LONG 2
52 008664 SPACER, SOLID, CARRIER 1
53 008874 SPACER, TUBE, CARRIER 2
54 ALL 008665 BLOCK, PIVOT 2
55 001755 BOLT, HEX, 10-32 X 2-25/32, CAD 2
56 001771 BOLT, HEX, 10-32 X 3-29/32, CAD 4
57 000449 SCREW, FSC, 10-24 X 1/2, SS 2
58 002269 WASHER, FLAT, 0.20 X 0.57 X 0.40, PTFE 16
59 001685 NUT, HEX, 10-32, SS 6

Valve – Guide Bushings & Drive Cable

60 000235 BAR, LIFT, 28” 1
61 000236 BUSHING, GUIDE 2
62 015272 RETAINER, CABLE, 1/8” 1
63 015282 CABLE, DRIVE, 1/8”, ASSY 1
ALL
64 000012 BOLT, HEX, 10-32 X 1-17/32, CAD 4
65 001606 SCREW, 10-24 X 3/4, HXSL, SS 2
67 001843 WASHER, FLAT, 0.20 X 0.50 X 0.6, SS 4
68 001685 NUT, HEX, NYLOCK, 10-32, SS 4

Instant Deployment System (IDS)

BBXHL4000 005407
BBXHL5000 005408
0 IDS, ASSY 1
BBXHL7600 005409
BBXHL9800 005410

Instant Deployment System (IDS) (continued)

BBXHL4000 007235
BBXHL5000 005382
1 HUB/CABLE, ASSY 1
BBXHL7600 005383
BBXHL9800 005384
BBXHL4000 005352 SPOKE, SOLID, 30-3/4”
2 10
BBXHL4000
BBXHL5000
3 014923 HARDWARE, SPOKE, KIT 10
BBXHL7600
BBXHL9800
BBXHL4000 010923
BBXHL5000 010924
4 CABLE, IDS, RESTRAINER, W/SHACKLE 2
BBXHL7600 010925
BBXHL9800 010926
BBXHL4000 016802
BBXHL5000 010904
5 CABLE, IDS, DEPLOYMENT, W/SHACKLE 1
BBXHL7600
010905
BBXHL9800
For buckets equipped with a PowerFill system, Restrainer Sleeves (not shown) are installed over the IDS
Restrainer Cables:

- ALL 016168 SLEEVE, RESTRAINER, PFX 2


PowerFill MAX Drive Assembly

1 016132 CONTROL, PFX, 4 PUMP, PRI, w/CABLES 1
2 016133 CONTROL, PFX, 4 PUMP, SEC, w/CABLES 1
3 ALL 006553 MOTOR, PFX, ASSY 4
5 014740 BOLT, EYE, SHL, 3/8-19 X 1-1/4, PLT 4

PowerFill MAX Pump Assembly

PowerFill MAX Pump Assembly (continued)

1 007327 PUMP, PFX, ASSEMBLY 4
2 005755 GASKET, PUMP 4
3 005773 SCREW, SC, 1/4-20 X 1-1/2, SS 8
4 000386 BOLT, HEX, 5/16-18 X 1, SS 12
5 001840 WASHER, FLAT, 5/16x9/16, AN, SS 8
ALL
6 007995 O-RING, BUNA N, #011, 50A 8
7 011151 O-RING, BUNA N, #031, 65A 4
8 013190 SLEEVE, CABLE, PFX 1
9 006710 LINK, CONNECTOR, LARGE, PLT 1
10 003002 QUICKLINK, 3/16”, SS 1

PowerFill MAX Flapper Valve & Impeller

0 ALL 007327 PUMP, PFX, ASSY 1
1 006816 VALVE, FLAPPER, PFX 1
2 006829 DISC, FLAPPER, INNER, PFX 1
3 006827 DISC, FLAPPER, OUTER, PFX 1
4 006699 RETAINER, FLAPPER, PFX 1
5 005734 IMPELLER, CAST, SS, 4”, #3 1
6 ALL 000553 BOLT, SHL, 1/4 X 1/4 X 1032, SS 2
7 000533 BOLT, HEX, 1/4-28 X 3/4, SS 1
8 000494 SCREW, 10-24 X 5/8, PNPH, SS 2
10 001855 WASHER, FLAT, #10 X 3/4, FND, SS 2
11 001660 NUT, HEX, 10-24, SS 2

PowerFill MAX Screens

1 007379 SCREEN, PUMP, PFX, ASSEMBLY 4
2 ALL 005755 GASKET, PUMP 4
3 011530 SCREW, SC, 1/4-20 X 1, SS 12

PowerFill MAX Standoff

0 ALL 008708 STANDOFF, PFX, 28”, ASSY 1
1 012025 RING, STANDOFF, 28” X 20, PFX 1
2 008710 SPACER, TUBE, STANDOFF, PFX 10
3 008701 BLOCK, MUDPAD, PFX, 28” 5
4 000392 BOLT, HEX, 3/8-16 X 1-1/2, SS 10
ALL
5 012091 BOLT, HEX, 3/8-16 X 8, SS 10
6 001863 WASHER, FLAT, 3/8, SS 26
7 001665 NUT, HEX, NYL, 3/8-16, SS 20
8 016058 SPACER, ALIGNMENT, STANDOFF, PFX 10

Carry Bags
MODEL PART # DESCRIPTION

BBXHL4000
005606 BAG, CARRY, BBXHL4000-BBXHL5000
BBXHL5000
BBXHL7600 005608 BAG, CARRY, BBXHL7600
BBXHL9800 005610 BAG, CARRY, BBXHL9800
Spares Kit
MODEL PART # DESCRIPTION CONTENTS

SEAL, VALVE, BOTTOM, 28” (1)
SEAL, VALVE, TOP, 28” (1)
ALL 009932 SPARES, BAMBI MAX, KIT BUSHING, GUIDE (2)
CABLE, DRIVE, ASSEMBLY (1)
CLAMP, GEAR, 8, SS (2)
Shell Repair Supplies
MODEL PART # CONTENTS

003613 KIT, REPAIR, SHELL
008905 PATCH, FABRIC, 8" X 10"
014858 PATCH, FABRIC, BULK, 24" X 68"
004502 CLAMP, REPAIR, SMALL
ALL
004503 CLAMP, REPAIR, MEDIUM
004504 CLAMP, REPAIR, LARGE
003090 ADHESIVE, AQUASEAL, 3/4 OZ
003091 ADHESIVE, AQUASEAL, 8 OZ
NOTICE
It is the responsibility of the end user to ensure that the importation of glue is allowed in the country of
use.

Shell Repair Kit
Repair kits contain some of the tools needed to perform repairs on Bambi MAX Bucket shells. Urethane
adhesive is not included in this kit. Urethane adhesive can be purchased separately.
Contents of 003613 – KIT, REPAIR, SHELL:
PART # DESCRIPTION QTY

011161 BAG, TOOL 1
003661 FABRIC REPAIR MANUAL 1
003608 BAG, WEIGHT 1
003064 PAD, ABBRASIVE 2
003071 ROLLER, SEAM, 1 ¼ 1
003074 SCISSORS 1
004502 CLAMP, REPAIR, SMALL, (2” HOLE) 1
008905 PATCH, FABRIC, 8”x10”, 32OZ, PTFF 3
002383 BAG, ZIPLOCK, 9” x 12”, 2M 2

Section 10: Drawings

Pilot Controls

Pilot Controls, US Interagency

Crew Controls – External Power Supply

PowerFill MAX Wiring

Section 11: Warranty
Section 11: Warranty

SEI Industries Ltd. (the company) agrees to grant a warranty for a period of one year from the date of
purchase of Bambi Bucket systems on the following conditions:
a) The company’s sole obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing, at the
company’s sole discretion, any product shown to be defective.
b) The company’s products are not guaranteed for any specific length of time or measure of service,
but are warranted only to be free from defects in workmanship and material for a period of one
year to the original purchaser.
c) To the extent allowable under applicable law, the company’s liability for consequential and
incidental damages is expressly disclaimed. The company’s liability in all events is limited to
and shall not exceed, the purchase price paid.
d) This warranty is granted to the original purchaser of Bambi Bucket systems and does not extend
to a subsequent purchaser or assignee.
e) The company must receive notification in writing of any claims of warranty from the original
purchaser which must give details of the claimed defect in the product.
f) Where the original purchaser is claiming under warranty, the product must be returned to the
company for inspection with all transportation and duty charges prepaid.
g) The warranty does not extend to any product that has been accidentally damaged, abraded,
altered, punctured, abused, misused or used for a purpose which has not been approved by the
company.
h) This warranty does not apply to any accessories used with the product that are not supplied by the
company and any warranty on such accessories must be requested from the manufacturer or
dealer of the accessories.
i) In the event the original purchaser does not give notice of a warranty claim, within one year of
the original purchase of the product, it is understood that the purchaser has waived the claim for
warranty and the purchaser and/or any subsequent purchaser must accept the condition of the
product, without warranty.
j) Any technical information supplied by the company regarding the product is not a condition of
warranty but rather is information provided by the company to the best of its knowledge.
k) There are no implied warranties nor is there any warranty that can be assumed from any
representation of any person, except the company itself.
Exclusions
l) This warranty is void if the product is not installed, used and/or maintained in accordance with
the operations manual supplied by SEI.
m) All Bambi Buckets are designed and manufactured with substantial safety margins. It is the
responsibility of the user to ensure that the bucket is maintained to a safe standard.

Bambi-MAX SERVICE MANUAL

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Bambi-MAX SERVICE MANUAL

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

BAMBI MAX BUCKET

Models HL4000 – HL9800

Maintenance Level: Organizational (O)

PLEASE READ BEFORE USING.

This manual is applicable to the following models:

Copies of this manual (#011750) are available from SEI.

SEI INDUSTRIES LTD.

Phone: (604) 946-3131

COPYRIGHT © 2020 SEI INDUSTRIES LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

VALIDATION OF OPERATIONS DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 1

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 2

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 3

● Yellow Valve Closed

☀ Flashing Green Valve Partially Open

● Green Valve Open

☀ Flashing Red Sensor Fault

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 4

Section 2: Deploying the Bucket

The Bambi MAX Bucket is rigged for a longitudinal cargo

If the helicopter has a lateral cargo hook, an additional ring

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 5

Current @24.5 VDC

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 6

Wire Length Connectors

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 7

Checking Tail Rotor Clearance

Lengths are accurate to within 1%.

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 8

Instant Deployment System (IDS)

Correct IDS position.

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 9

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 10

The pump motors are controlled by solid state relays in

Not an accurate representation of 4-Pump

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 11

Power is transmitted to the pump controllers via two pairs of

Wire Length Connectors

On the bottom of the bucket, a standoff structure is installed

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 12

Foam Injection Systems

The Sacksafoam Bladder uses a collapsible reservoir located

Bucket Reservoir Capacity Gross Weight

Wire Length Connectors

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 13

The Sacksafoam Heli-Case is a self-contained unit that can be

The Sacksafoam Heli-Case interfaces with the Sacksafoam

Bucket Reservoir Capacity Gross Weight

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 14

Bucket Power Pack Specifications Gross Weight

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 15

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 16

Section 4: Making Adjustments

Determine the current state of valve adjustment as follows:

The adjustment procedure is as follows:

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 17

8. After adjustment, power up the bucket circuit.

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 18

Section 5: Packing and Storage

1. Open the valve 1 inch.

2. Collapse the IDS by pushing the hub into the bucket.

3. If you can’t collapse the IDS as shown, a 4 x 4 block

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 19

4. Grab the control head and pull the suspension lines

5. Insert the operations manual into the storage bag.

6. Gather the suspension lines into a coil and stow

7. Place the head on top of the collapsed bucket.

Bambi MAX Service Manual – Models HL4000-HL9800 20

8. Roll the bucket into a bundle and wrap with straps

9. Rotate the shell until the head is under the shell.