coupling which connects the tensioner cylinder to the
catapult hydraulic system. The drain also provides a
reservoir and drain for all fluids entering the track slot.
Shock Absorber (Soft-Stop) Assembly
The shock absorber assembly (fig. 5-21) is
mounted horizontally at the forward end of the NGL
assembly. During the catapult retract cycle, the shock
absorber provides uniform deceleration of the shuttle to
bring it to a smooth, soft stop, eliminating impact forces
that could cause damage to the grab assembly or the
NGL assembly. The shock absorber is a compact,
self-contained, sealed unit consisting of an all steel
body with an inner pressure chamber and an all steel
chrome-plated piston rod that requires no maintenance
or adjustments.
Valve Manifold Assembly
The valve manifold assembly (fig. 5-22) controls
the flow of fluid from the catapult hydraulic system to
the buffer cylinder assembly. The valve manifold
assembly is located below decks and consists of a
support structure, two two-way flow control valves,
two four-way solenoid control valves, a reducing valve,
a piston-type accumulator, a terminal box to house
electrical connections, and associated piping.
5-20
ABEf0521
Figure 5-21.—Shock absorber assembly.
PORT R
REDUCED PRESSURE
TO BUFFER
CYLINDER
CHECK VALVE
PORT T
RETURN
TO GRAVITY
TANK
PORT S
FROM BUFFER
ACCUMULATOR
CHECK
VALVE
FLOW
CONTROL
VALVE
SUPPORT
SOLENOID A
SOLENOID CONTROL
VALVE
ACCUMULATOR
SOLENOID B
DRAIN
FLOW
CONTROL
VALVE
PORT P
HYDRAULIC
SUPPLY
REDUCING
VALVE
ABEf0522
Figure 5-22.—Valve manifold assembly.
