SEI Industries BAMBI MAX Series User manual

BAMBI MAX BUCKET
OPERATIONS MANUAL
2021A

BAMBI MAX BUCKET OPERATIONS MANUAL
Version: 2021A
Part Number: 008904
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING.
This manual is applicable to the following models:
BBX1518 (# 007898)
BBX5566PF (# 007907)
BBX1518S (# 013517)
BBX6578 (# 007908)
BBX1821 (# 007899)
BBX6578PF (# 007909)
BBX1821S (# 013518)
BBX7590 (# 007910)
BBX2024 (# 007900)
BBX7590PF (# 007911)
BBX2024S (# 013519)
BBXHL4000 (# 007912)
BBX2226 (# 007901)
BBXHL4000PF (# 007913)
BBX2732 (# 007902)
BBXHL5000 (# 007914)
BBX2732S (# 013520)
BBXHL5000PF (# 007915)
BBX3137 (#017065)
BBXHL7600 (# 007916)
BBX3542 (# 007903)
BBXHL7600PF (# 007917)
BBX4453 (# 007904)
BBXHL9800 (# 007918)
BBX4453PF (# 007905)
BBXHL9800PF (# 007919)
BBX5566 (# 007906)
PATENTS
AU2012201273
CA2770005
US9265977
Physical copies of this manual (# 008904) are available from SEI.
This manual is available on the SEI website.
Register for manual update notifications at [e-mail]
This manual is based on information that was available at the time it was printed and may not
be applicable to products received before the issue date and customized items.
SEI INDUSTRIES LTD.
7400 Wilson Avenue
Delta, B.C. Canada
V4G 1H3
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Website: www.bambibucket.com
COPYRIGHT © 2020 SEI INDUSTRIES LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Revision Summary
Version
Release Date
Revision Description
2020A
21-Jan-2020
•General Revision
2020B
25-Nov-2020
•General Revision
•BBX4453 Length Increased
2021A
06-Apr-2021
•General Revision
•Weight and Capacity Revision
•Added model BBX3137

Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction............................................................................................................ 1
Section 2: Preflight Safety Check........................................................................................... 3
Safety Checklist........................................................................................................................................3
Section 3: Deploying the Bucket............................................................................................. 5
Attaching to the Cargo Hook....................................................................................................................5
Connecting Power.....................................................................................................................................5
Checking Tail Rotor Clearance.................................................................................................................6
Instant Deployment System (IDS)............................................................................................................7
Section 4: Flight Operations ................................................................................................... 9
Flying the Bucket......................................................................................................................................9
Filling the Bucket....................................................................................................................................10
Dumping the Bucket...............................................................................................................................11
Landing...................................................................................................................................................11
Section 5: Using Accessories................................................................................................13
PowerFill.................................................................................................................................................13
Foam Injection Systems..........................................................................................................................15
Power Pack..............................................................................................................................................16
Mobility Sled ..........................................................................................................................................16
Marine Recovery Device ........................................................................................................................16
Section 6: Packing and Storage.............................................................................................18
Packing the Bucket .................................................................................................................................18
Storing the Bucket...................................................................................................................................21
Section 7: Specifications........................................................................................................22
Capacity and Weight Specifications.......................................................................................................22
Section 8: Warranty ................................................................................................................24

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Section 1: Introduction
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 1
Section 1: Introduction
The Bambi MAX Bucket (Bambi MAX) is a collapsible firefighting bucket with a multiple drop valve.
The multiple drop capability allows an operator to split the bucket load over several locations. It also allows
the operator to adjust the amount of water carried in the bucket to match the lifting capability of the aircraft
throughout its fuel cycle.
The operation of the Bambi MAX Bucket can be quickly mastered with no previous experience and the
bucket requires no pre-assembly.
This manual provides helicopter operators with information on the operation of the Bambi MAX Bucket as
well as the PowerFill Snorkel and PowerFill MAX systems. For service and maintenance information,
please refer to the separate service manual for your specific bucket model number.
Please read this manual prior to flying the bucket, particularly the sections on deploying, filling and
dumping. For your own protection, and for longer bucket life, always read the cautions and warnings.
Ignoring these could result in personal injury, bucket damage or aircraft damage.
SEI Industries Ltd. offers complete parts supply and repair services for the Bambi MAX Bucket. For a
repair facility in your area, please contact SEI. For maintenance and repair purposes, parts diagrams and
descriptions are provided in a separate service manual which is specific to your model.
When you are ordering parts, please provide the model and serial number of your Bambi MAX Bucket as
shown on the data tags located inside the bucket shell.

Section 1: Introduction
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 2
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Section 2: Preflight Safety Check
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 3
Section 2: Preflight Safety Check
Safety Checklist
Along with the aircraft, the Bambi MAX Bucket should alsoreceive a preflight inspection each day. Follow
the checklist below, beginning at the bottom of the bucket and working upwards.
1. Check the bottom chain looking for any tears in the fabric straps. Also, check the lock wire
or tie wraps on the shackles.
2. Check for loose bolts around the bucket shell; IDS brackets at the top, the wear strips at the
bottom and bottom rings.
3. Check the diagonal M-straps that connect the suspension cables to the top of the bucket,
looking for signs of wear or incorrect suspension line connections.
4. Check the suspension cables for frays, kinks or loose swages.
5. Check that the ballast is securely attached. Full ballast is essential for safe operations.
6. Check the head for secure shackles.
7. Once the Bambi MAX is hooked-up to 28 V power, activate the valve several times to ensure
that the hook-up is correct.
8. If a PowerFill system is installed, inspect the conductor wires for damage, chafing or wear.
Confirm that the conductor cables are firmly secured.
•For external PowerFill Snorkel, the wires should be attached to the nearest suspension
line.
•For internal PowerFill MAX, check that the cable sleeve is securely anchored to the valve
and head, and that the cables have sufficient slack at both ends.
•If a long line is used, the wires should be attached to this line also.
9. Inspect the cable connectors for damage and ensure proper connections.
10. With power on, check the function of the pumps by pressing the pump’s ON button for four
or five seconds.
•The pump should turn on and run for the period the button is held. The pump will be
audible within a few feet of the bucket.
•Listen for abnormal noises that are not consistent with smooth operation. If you are
operating in a noisy environment, you can confirm that the pump is running by holding
your hand on the top of the filter screen.
•You may also see the shell move each time you activate the switch.
CAUTION
Do not operate with damaged cables. Damage to an electrical cable, that leaves the conductor exposed,
can result in a fire if it comes in contact with another conductor or metal object.

Section 2: Preflight Safety Check
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 4
11. Check the filter screen for debris accumulation and clear as necessary.
12. Check the filter screen for signs of damage that may affect water flow.
13. Repair any damage to the components above before operating.
CAUTION
Do not put your fingers or other objects into the pump impeller while the pump is running. Personal
injury or damage to the pump can occur.

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 5
Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Attaching to the Cargo Hook
Correct attachment of the head is indicated when the ballast on the bucket faces forward in flight which
will avoid twisting of the suspension lines. If using a swivel hook, it is recommended to operate in the
locked position to assure that the ballast is always facing forward in flight.
The Bambi MAX Bucket is rigged for a longitudinal
cargo hook. The top shackle on the head acts as the
secondary ring for the cargo hook. The operator must
supply a primary ring in accordance with the cargo
hook manufacturer’s recommendations.
If the helicopter has a lateral cargo hook, an additional
ring or shackle will be required between the top shackle
and the primary ring to rotate the bucket 90°.
WARNING
Ensure that all rings and shackles are rated with a minimum safety factor of five for the gross weight of
the bucket as shown on the data plate.
Connecting Power
The Bambi MAX Bucket’s electrical supply is connected through a breakaway plug. The purpose of the
plug is to offer a clean “breakaway” if the Bambi MAX has to be jettisoned from the aircraft in an
emergency. If the control cable is not secured to the longline, duct tape should be wrapped every 24-36"
to prevent any damage to the cable.
CAUTION
The Bambi MAX Bucket may not be suitable for a direct hook-up to the cargo hook. The actual hook-
up will be different for various aircraft and operators must comply with all instructions and bulletins
supplied by the aircraft manufacturer. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the Bambi MAX
Bucket is correctly fitted to the helicopter.

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 6
Checking Tail Rotor Clearance
WARNING
Using a Bambi MAX Bucket with insufficient tail rotor clearance could result in a tail rotor strike which
could result in serious injury or death.
When a Bambi MAX Bucket is attached directly to the helicopter cargo hook or attached using a longline
less than 50 ft (15 m) in length, it is important to confirm that there is adequate tail rotor clearance. Before
using the Bambi MAX Bucket, check the tail rotor clearance.
1. Determine the tail rotor length by measuring the distance from the cargo hook to the closest
point on the helicopter tail rotor.
2. Determine the bucket overall length from the following chart:
Model
Overall Length
No PowerFill
With PowerFill MAX
BBX1518
13’-3”
4.05 m
Not Applicable
BBX1518S
11’-9”
3.58 m
BBX1821
13’-6”
4.10 m
BBX1821S
11’-11”
3.64 m
BBX2024
17’-8”
5.39 m
BBX2024S
13’-5”
4.09 m
BBX2226
13’-6”
4.11 m
BBX2732
20’-7”
6.27 m
BBX2732S
12’-9”
3.90 m
BBX3137
20’-11”
6.38 m
BBX3542
21’-3”
6.48 m
BBX4453
21’-8”
6.60 m
22’-2”
6.76 m
BBX5566
21’-5”
6.53 m
21’-11”
6.68 m
BBX6578
21’-8”
6.60 m
22’-2”
6.76 m
BBX7590
27’-11”
8.51 m
28’-5”
8.66 m
BBXHL4000
27’-9”
8.46 m
28’-3”
8.61 m
BBXHL5000
29’-3”
8.92 m
29’-9”
9.07 m
BBXHL7600
30’-8”
9.35 m
31’-2”
9.50 m
BBXHL9800
31’-5”
9.58 m
31’-11”
9.73 m
Lengths are accurate to within 1%. Specifications subject to change.
NOTICE
If using a longline, the minimum recommended length is 50 ft (15 m).

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 7
To confirm the bucket overall length, stretch out the bucket on the ground, pulling the
suspension cables taut. Measure the distance from the shackle on the head to the bottom of the
shell.
3. The tail rotor clearance is equal to the tail rotor length minus the bucket overall length.
4. The tail rotor clearance must be a minimum of 6” (0.15 m).
If the tail rotor clearance is insufficient, shorter suspension lines and deployment lines must be used and
can be ordered from SEI. Please specify the model and serial number when ordering parts.
Instant Deployment System (IDS)
The instant deployment system uses a hub and spoke
mechanism to automatically expand the mouth of the bucket as
soon as the weight of the Bambi MAX Bucket is taken up by
the suspension cables.
When the bucket is full, the IDS deployment cable and hub
restrainer cables should be slack as they should not bear any
load. Their function is to position the hub and spoke
mechanism to hold the bucket open.
To deploy the IDS on the ground, reach into the bucket, grasp
the hub of the IDS and pull outward fully until the two
restraining cables from the hub to the lower bucket shell are
tight.
The IDS restraining cables are set at the factory and normally
should not require any adjustment.

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 8
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Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 9
Section 4: Flight Operations
The operation of the Bambi MAX Bucket can be quickly mastered by operators with no previous
experience. Once airborne, the operator can easily become familiar with the flight characteristics of the
bucket. Several test fills will also provide familiarity with the variable filling and dumping capabilities of
the bucket.
Flying the Bucket
The Bambi MAX Bucket should be flown in accordance with the United States Forest Service
recommendations limiting all helicopters, other than tandem rotor, to a maximum 80 KIAS while
conducting external cargo hook operations.
The recommended never exceed speed (VNE) for the Bambi MAX Bucket is 80 KIAS, however, this is not
a flight manual limitation. Speeds above 80 KIAS should be approached with caution and any decision to
exceed this speed should be based on flight characteristics, aircraft flight manual limitations, aircraft/bucket
configuration and load stability, etc.
Any change that exceeds this recommendation should be formally authorized in your company’s external
load specifications. A suggested flight procedure is to build up speed slowly with the Bambi MAX Bucket,
under prevailing conditions, to determine a safe maximum flying speed.
Flying a Bambi MAX Bucket with the PowerFill system will not adversely affect the flight characteristics
of the bucket.
The dead weight of the load ensures different handling characteristics than when flying empty. As a result,
the Bambi MAX Bucket does not ‘pulse’ or ‘throb’ under load in flight.
NOTICE
Bambi MAX Buckets can operate in any atmospheric conditions where icing conditions are not present.
If icing conditions are encountered during operations, in flight or on the ground, SEI cannot guarantee
the reliable operation of the valve actuating mechanisms nor related components.
Operating the Bambi MAX Bucket at 32 °F (0 °C) or below may have adverse effects on the operation
of the bucket and to the fabrics used in its manufacture. Please refer to this manual for information
related to proper storage.

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 10
Filling the Bucket
Once the Bambi MAX Bucket touches the water surface, it immediately tips and sinks. This is a result of
the ballast on one side of the bucket which makes it unstable on the water. Opening the valve will make
the bucket sink faster but it should be closed once it is below the surface.
WARNING
When filling the Bambi MAX Bucket, do not execute an abrupt pedal turn with the helicopter close to
the water while towing the bucket. There is a danger that the Bambi MAX Bucket suspension lines
could get caught on a rear skid resulting in a dynamic rollover on lift out. This could cause personal
injury and helicopter damage.
Check the load and suspension cables with your mirrors before lifting out.
To fill the bucket from an open top tank, you will require a tank with a recommended depth as shown in
the chart below:
Model*
Bambi Height
Required
Tank Height
BBX1518*
39”
1.00 m
48”
1.22 m
BBX1821*
41”
1.04 m
56”
1.45 m
BBX2024*
43”
1.09 m
58”
1.52 m
BBX2226
44”
1.10 m
60”
1.52 m
BBX2732*
48”
1.22 m
60”
1.52 m
BBX3137
52”
1.32 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX3542
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX4453
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BBX5566
62”
1.57 m
84”
3.05 m
BBX6578
67”
1.70 m
90”
3.05 m
BBX7590
73”
1.85 m
96”
3.05 m
BBXHL4000
75”
1.90 m
96”
3.05 m
BBXHL5000
80”
2.03 m
110”
3.05 m
BBXHL7600
95”
2.41 m
120”
3.05 m
BBXHL9800
106”
2.70 m
120”
3.05 m
*Applicable to models of the same size denoted with suffix ‘S’, e.g., BBX1518S.
The table does not apply if you are using a PowerFill system.
Variable Fill Capability
In some situations, elevation and temperature conditions may require the reduction of the bucket load below
its nominal capacity. It is also desirable to vary the bucket load as fuel is consumed by the aircraft in order
to maximize efficiency.
The Bambi MAX Bucket has a valve system that allows the pilot to vary the bucket load. By pressing and
releasing the dump switch as the bucket is being pulled from the water, the bucket weight can be reduced

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 11
until the desired load is reached as indicated by a load cell or torque gauge. As little as 2% of the water can
be shed in this manner.
Dumping the Bucket
To dump water from the bucket, push and hold the dump switch. As long as the switch is held, water will
flow from the bucket. Release the switch to stop the flow of water.
The valve may be opened and closed an unlimited number of times allowing the water load to be split into
as many parts as desired.
NOTICE
If the valve fails to operate, it may be due to a jammed condition in the bucket which caused the internal
motor protection to trip. To reset, turn off the power to the bucket circuit, wait for 10 seconds and then
turn the power back on, and attempt to operate the valve. If the problem continues, investigate the cause
of the jammed condition.
Dump Pattern
The dump pattern is affected by height and airspeed. It is most concentrated at lower altitudes and at a
hover. The pattern will spread with height and speed. Most operators take advantage of these
characteristics to maximize their assault on the fireline.
Make dumps at slower speeds before progressing to faster dumps to get familiar with the flight
characteristics, while dumping, from your particular helicopter.
WARNING
Ensure that ground personnel are clear from the dumping zone. Failure to do so could result in serious
personal injury.
Landing
The recommended landing procedure is to allow the bucket to touch down ahead of the helicopter and then
maintain tension on the suspension lines by backing up slightly. Do not drag the Bambi MAX Bucket over
rough surfaces when landing or ground handling. This will damage the bucket shell.
NOTICE
When the Bambi MAX Bucket is taken out of daily operation, leave the valve partially open which will
extend the life of the seal.
NOTICE

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 12
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After using the bucket in saltwater, wash the bucket with fresh water. The salt can deteriorate the bucket
materials if not removed.

Section 5: Using Accessories
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 13
Section 5: Using Accessories
Accessories are optional. Not supplied with the bucket.
PowerFill
PowerFill is a system which allows partial or complete bucket fills from a range of previously inaccessible
water sources as shallow as 18” (0.46 m). This includes streams, ponds, and low profile dip tanks. It is
available as an externally mounted pump in bucket models 1821 –3542 and as internally mounted pumps
in bucket models 4453 –HL9800.
PowerFill Snorkel
The PowerFill Snorkel is an externally mounted pump
consisting of a flange assembly and a pump assembly. The
flange assembly is permanently installed into the bucket and
includes a flapper check valve to prevent water from flowing
back through the pump when the pump is not running. Flanges
can be installed on several buckets to accept the same pump unit.
The pump assembly is connected to the flange assembly with a
camlock fitting which allows the pump to be quickly removed
for ease of transport.
The pump is driven by a 28 VDC electric motor. The motor,
impeller, and housings are contained within a circular steel filter
basket which serves to protect the components from impact
damage while also acting as a debris screen.
PowerFill MAX
PowerFill MAX is a system of pumps mounted on the top plate
of the Bambi MAX valve. It is available for bucket models
4453 –HL9800.
It consists of two or four pumps depending on the model of the
bucket. It can be supplied as original equipment, or it can be
added to an existing valve.
The pumps are driven by 28 VDC electric motors. The water
inlets for the pumps are located on the underside of the top plate.
The inlets have screens to protect the pump impellers from
impact damage while also acting as a debris screen.
A stand-off is installed on the bottom of the bucket to keep the
pumps clear of any rocks and debris found in the water source.
Included is a PowerFill cable sleeve which is anchored to the
top plate of the valve, and the head. The sleeve bundles and
protects the cables while providing strain relief.
*PowerFill cable sleeve not shown

Section 5: Using Accessories
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 14
Operating PowerFill
To initiate a fill with PowerFill, the pump impeller(s) must be immersed. It may not be possible to fill from
water sources less than 18" (0.46 m) deep. The further the bottom of the bucket can be lowered into the
water source, the faster the bucket will fill. Where possible, employ a partial dip fill, augmented by the
pump, to reduce the total fill time.
Operation is accomplished by pressing the fill button for as long as it takes to fill the bucket. Frothing of
the water or slow fill rate indicates the pump is not submerged far enough to maintain prime.
NOTICE
When using PowerFill MAX, open the valve momentarily when entering the water to release the air
captured below the valve. Failure to do so may prevent the pumps from priming.
Once a fill has been started, the bucket will need to be supported by maintaining some tension on the
suspension lines, particularly when the bucket is nearly full. If the bucket is not supported, the flexible
nature of the bucket shell may allow it to collapse to one side as the water load increases.
Model*
PowerFill
Pumps
Optimal
Fill Time
BBX1821*
External
Snorkel
1
31s
BBX2024*
34s
BBX2226
37s
BBX2732*
46s
BBX3137
52s
BBX3542
59s
BBX4453PF
Internal
MAX
2
37s
BBX5566PF
47s
BBX6578PF
55s
BBX7590PF
64s
BBXHL4000PF
Internal
MAX
4
37s
BBXHL5000PF
47s
BBXHL7600PF
71s
BBXHL9800PF
91s
If operating PowerFill in extremely dirty or swampy water sources, more frequent inspections of the pump
impeller and screens may be required to maintain optimal function. The pump(s) can be run dry without
damage.
CAUTION
Do not submerge the bucket to a depth of more than 20 ft (6 m) when performing conventional dip fills
with PowerFill systems installed.
Do not operate PowerFill if the bucket is submerged to a depth of 10 ft (3 m) or more.
*Applicable to models
of the same size denoted
with suffix ‘S’, e.g.,
BBX1821S.

Section 5: Using Accessories
Bambi MAX Bucket Operations Manual 15
Foam Injection Systems
Sacksafoam is a foam injection system that uses a pump to dispense a controlled amount of foam
concentrate from a reservoir into the water in the bucket. The operation of the Sacksafoam is controlled by
the pilot through a control unit, which is mounted in the cockpit. There are two models of Sacksafoam
available depending on the location of the foam concentrate reservoir.
Sacksafoam Bladder
The Sacksafoam Bladder uses a collapsible reservoir located in
the bucket. An internal check valve stops water from flowing
into the bladder and ensures that foam is dispensed only while
the injection pump is operating. Because the foam in the
bladder displaces the water in the bucket, the total gross weight
is always constant.
The Sacksafoam bladder interfaces with the Sacksafoam
controller. Dispensing can be controlled directly from the
controller screen or a remote switch.
Sacksafoam Heli-Case
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case is a self-contained unit that can be
stowed onboard the helicopter. The foam concentrate is stored
in a 20 USG tank inside a large plastic case with provision for
an extra 5 USG container. The case is designed to prevent foam
from contacting the helicopter.
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case interfaces with the Sacksafoam
controller which can be mounted directly in control panel or
externally by using the supplied blanking plate and harnesses.
Dispensing can be controlled directly from the Sacksafoam
controller screen or using the remote control grip.
The Sacksafoam Heli-Case can also interface with the Bambi MAX Bucket, allowing the bucket to be
actuated using the trigger on the remote control grip.
Foam Compatibility
The Bambi MAX Bucket is designed to be effective with foam. All materials used in the manufacture of
the Bambi MAX are resistant to the chemical action of foam.
NOTICE
After using foam or retardants, cycle through several dumps with water only or hose down with fresh
water to prolong the bucket life.