SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Staff Sgt. Michael Walton inspects an F-100-220E jet engine, May 5, 2010. When an engine is sent from the flightline, it is inspected by an engine specialist to pinpoint the problem before the engine is broken down and repaired. Sergeant Walton, 4th Component Maintenance Squadron jet engine mechanic, hails from Augusta, Ga. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Gino Reyes)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Airman 1st Class Eli Thompson inspects washers on an exhaust module, May 5, 2010. The module is the tail end of an F-100-220E jet engine used on F-15E Strike Eagles. Airman Thompson, 4th Component Maintenance Squadron jet engine mechanic, hails from Detroit. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Gino Reyes)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Fire up that engine

Published May 6, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Gino Reyes
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 4th Component Maintenance Squadron jet engine mechanics provide a unique service, by ensuring the F-15E Strike Eagles here stay in the air.

These Airmen receive every damaged jet engine removed from an aircraft. They spend their days receiving, inspecting, breaking down, repairing and rebuilding jet engines. During the receiving phase, the engine is inspected to pinpoint the problem and locate any other possible malfunctions. After inspecting the engine the Airmen strip the unit down to bare its modules. The Airmen then repair the broken modules and replace worn components. Next, they build the engine back up and perform a final inspection before sending it to the test facility. After passing inspection the repaired engine is stored until it is needed.