cylinder-elongation readout, a 24-hour clock, a wind- speed digital indicator, an ambient-temperature digital readout, the capacity -selector-valve-position readout, the manual-aircraft-data-input-system readout, the digital endspeed indicator console and thermal printer, phone jacks, and a phone selector switch. RIGHT-FRONT PANEL.— The right-front panel is used when operating in any of the three different modes of operation; that is, during normal operation, EMERGENCY MODE I, or EMERGENCY MODE II. During normal operation, the catapult is controlled from the ICCS. In this mode of operation, the right-front panel monitors various functions of the catapult. The main power switch for the catapult electrical control circuit is located on the panel. The main POWER-ON light comes on when the switch is in the ON position. The LAUNCH-VALVE-STROKE-TIMER push button is on the panel and is used to turn the power on and off for the launch-valve-stroke-timer circuit. The launch- valve-stroke-timer clocks located on the panel indicate the length of time required for the launching-valve- operation-controls crosshead to move through two predetermined distances. Gauges on the panel indicate water-brake pressure, steam pressure, and water temperature. Lights also indicate the status of the steam-receiver water temperature, water level, water charging and blowdown valves, steam charging valves, steam blowdown valve, and steam riser valve. The catapult READY, FINAL READY, and FIRE lights are also operative. A catapult SUSPEND push button is provided on the panel in case an unsafe condition is noticed at the central charging panel during operations. The MANEUVER GRAB AFT push button is operative only during a hangfire situation and when operating in EMERGENCY MODE II. Launching Valve Emergency Cutout Valve The purpose of the launching valve emergency cutout valve is the same on all steam catapults. It is used to prevent the launching valves from opening during a hangfire condition by causing the launch valve control valve to shift to the CLOSED position, ensuring that hydraulic pressure is directed to the closing side of the launching valves hydraulic cylinders until the emergency cutout valve is returned to its normal position. This section of the chapter discusses the general operation of the catapults on ships through CV-67. PREOPERATIONAL INSPECTION A preoperational inspection must be accurately and methodically conducted before each day’s operation or every 2 weeks when the catapult is in an UP status but not operating, to ensure its safe and proper operation. All inspections conducted on the catapults and catapult-associated equipment will be conducted according to current maintenance requirement cards (MRCs) PRELIMINARY PROCEDURES Prior to charging the hydraulic and air systems, there are several conditions that must exist or be prepared. These conditions are listed on the applicable MRCs as preliminary steps, and must be carried out before the actual charging and checkout procedures can begin. All electrical circuits should be energized, fluid levels must be checked, and an adequate supply of high-pressure air ensured. The emergency panel on the control console should be used so that the catapult may be operated from that position. Safety personnel should be stationed along the catapult track to ensure that the area remains clear during the catapult checkout. All valves should be set according to the applicable MRCs. LUBRICATION Before each day’s operation, make sure the lubrication system supply tank is filled with the correct amount of oil. Lubricate all parts of the catapult that require daily lubrication according to the MRCs. Shuttle Track The shuttle track slot seals should be removed and the track and adjacent area inspected before the catapult is fired. Accessory Equipment The following accessory equipment should be in its proper location on the flight deck: • Hold back and release units • Adequate supply of tension bars and tensioning devices for all types of aircraft scheduled to be launched • Nose-gear launch equipment 4-63