GATE 5: Putting it all back together Published Feb. 13, 2015 By Jenny Gordon Robins Public Affairs ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- It's finally time to put the pieces back together again. The production process to maintain and overhaul a C-130H in our series on programmed depot maintenance in the 560th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron has steadily progressed since we debuted our first article on Sept. 5. A crew of more than 20 aircraft, sheet metal and hydraulics mechanics skillfully tinker above, below and inside one of the Air Force's most versatile weapon systems. At this stage - Gate 5's Repair & Build-Up - it's an orchestra of silently moving pieces as images of a whole aircraft begin to take shape. Parts such as ailerons, rudders, leading edges and elevators, that were inspected and routed to various back shops across Robins arrived back in order for build-up to begin. Mechanics know what their tasks are for the day, and the entire production machine grinds ahead quickly and efficiently. "When we send this aircraft home, it will be pristine and something very nice for our customers to see," said Don Doggett, 560th AMXS supervisor. It's been more than a week since work began to assemble the aircraft once again. On a day early in the week, a few hydraulics technicians were off to the side of the aircraft, rebuilding main landing gear struts. Other mechanics moved in and out - not easily mind you - from inside one of six fuel tanks on both wings. Occasionally a few heads popped up, then quickly ducked below in their confined spaces, so named because there's only one way in and out. Everything that was taken out months ago - to include wires, pumps and foam - is put back to make the inside new again. Depending on how much work is needed, it can take an average of eight to 10 days. On this aircraft, the tanks were pretty clean. Sheet metal mechanics are at the rear, working repairs in an area that is routinely checked for corrosion and cracks. A new skin will be put on to make it better. More aircraft mechanics are working inside the fuselage and he flight deck. Most of what's being accomplished here involves labor in the fuel tanks. It's a tedious yet critical job. There can be no mistakes here since lives and the mission hinge on perfection. It can get loud inside one of these hangars as different tools make contact with an aircraft's surface. Earplugs are a must. Get on top of one and wearing safety harnesses is mandatory. Come back in another week's time and the entire scene will look altered. The aircraft's vertical and horizontal tails will be bolted back on. The heavy rear cargo door will be installed. The flight deck will be rebuilt with all new floors. Managing the schedule of the aircraft at this stage is David Kibler, 560th AMXS aircraft logistics specialist. This C-130H that hails from Japan will be in repair for 41 days, no later than March 3, before it moves forward with a new coat of paint. "Everything moves pretty quickly at this stage. In putting this aircraft back together, this one has been pretty good," said Kibler of the C-130H, a 1974 model.