New TF-34 engine facility reduces repair time

by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
23rd Wing Public Affairs

7/19/2010 - MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The opening of a new engine facility at Moody signals a faster, more efficient way to produce and repair the engines of the A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft.

The TF-34 Engine Repair Facility recently had a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the facility's move from Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., to Moody. The move is based upon the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission's recommendation to relocate TF-34 engine intermediate maintenance.

"When we used to receive engines from Shaw, it would take a few days and then any problems with the engines would have to be sent back," said Senior Master Sgt. David Smith, 23rd Component Maintenance Squadron propulsion flight chief. "Now if we need something on the engine fixed, it is here on base, which makes it more convenient."

The facility will receive engines that need repair, break them down and then build them back up. After they are rebuilt, they are tested to make sure everything is in working order before going through a final inspection.

"The original purpose of the facility being sent here was to support five bases, but now the mission of the facility is to provide engines to Moody and Eglin AFB, Fla.," said Sergeant Smith. "The facility provides engines to the units at home station and the deployed location."

When the facility was moved here, 26 Airmen from Shaw came to Moody to provide assistance to the maintenance group.

"The arrival of experienced Airmen from Shaw is helping the transition to Moody immensely," said Sergeant Smith. "They have a lot of experience working with these engines and their expertise is invaluable."

The Airmen from Shaw continue to support Moody even after the moving of the facility, which helps increase the productivity of the shop immensely.

"The decision to realign Shaw called for relocating the TF-34 engine facility to maximize the operational and war fighter capabilities," said Col. Gary Henderson, 23rd Wing commander. "The Flying Tigers will gladly continue the legacy of the TF-34 engine."



MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Col. Gary Henderson, 23rd Wing commander, cuts the ceremonial ribbon with Debbie Cannon, U.S. Senator regional representative, during the TF-34 Engine Repair Facility ribbon-cutting ceremony here July 16, 2010. Other members from Moody and community leaders also assisted in cutting the ribbon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Benjamin Wiseman) Hi-res

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