SEI Industries Bambi Bucket Series User manual

BAMBI BUCKET
OPERATIONS MANUAL
2019A

BAMBI BUCKET OPERATIONS MANUAL
Version 2019A
PLEASE READ BEFORE USING.
This manual is applicable to the following models:
BB6072 (# 007144)
BB2024L (# 014913)
BB8096 (# 007145)
BB2226 (# 007151)
BB8096S (# 005702)
BB2732 (# 007153)
BB9011 (# 007146)
BB2732S (# 008741)
BB9011S (# 008737)
BB3542 (# 007155)
BB1012 (# 007147)
BB420B (# 007156)
BB1012S (# 005705)
BB4453(# 007157)
BB1214 (# 007148)
BB5566 (# 007159)
BB1214S (# 008738)
BB680K (#007160)
BB1518 (# 007149)
BB6578 (# 007161)
BB1518S (# 005708)
BB7590 (# 007162)
BB1821 (# 007150)
BBHL4000 (# 007163)
BB1821S (# 008739)
BBHL5000 (# 007164)
BB1821L (#011067)
BBHL7600 (# 007166)
BB2024 (# 007152)
BBHL9800 (# 007168)
BB2024S (# 005712)
Copies of this manual (#000512) are available from SEI.
The manual is available on the SEI website.
Register for manual update notifications at [e-mail]
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 © 2019 SEI INDUSTRIES LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Version
Revision Summary
2019A
•General Revision

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.....................................................................................................................................6
Checking Tail Rotor Clearance.................................................................................................................7
Instant Deployment System (IDS)............................................................................................................8
Section 4: Flight Operations ................................................................................................... 9
Flying the Bucket......................................................................................................................................9
Filling the Bucket....................................................................................................................................10
Dumping the Bucket...............................................................................................................................12
Landing...................................................................................................................................................13
Section 5: Using Accessories................................................................................................15
Firesock...................................................................................................................................................15
PowerFill Snorkel ...................................................................................................................................16
Foam Injection Systems..........................................................................................................................18
Power Pack..............................................................................................................................................19
Mobility Sled ..........................................................................................................................................19
Marine Recovery Device ........................................................................................................................19
Section 6: Packing and Storage.............................................................................................21
Packing the Bucket .................................................................................................................................21
Storing the Bucket...................................................................................................................................23
Section 7: Specifications........................................................................................................25
Capacity and Weight Specifications.......................................................................................................25
Section 8: Warranty ................................................................................................................27

Section 1: Introduction
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 1
Section 1: Introduction
Since its introduction in 1983, the Bambi Bucket has become the preferred means of helicopter fire
fighting for more than 600 companies and agencies worldwide. This universal industry acceptance is the
result of the Bambi Bucket’s effectiveness, reliability, simplicity and ease of use.
The operation of the Bambi 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 Bucket. 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 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 Bucket as shown
on the data tags located inside the bucket shell.

Section 1: Introduction
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 2

Section 2: Preflight Safety Check
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 3
Section 2: Preflight Safety Check
Safety Checklist
Along with the aircraft, the Bambi Bucket should also receive 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 lockwire or tie
wraps on the shackles.
2. Check for loose bolts around the bucket shell; IDS brackets at the top, cinch strap brackets at the
midpoint and the wear strips at the bottom.
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 purse lines on the dump valve. Frayed lines should be replaced. Do not wait for a line
to break before replacing it.
5. Check the cinch strap, ensuring it is at the correct percentage.
6. Check the suspension cables for frays, kinks or loose swages.
7. Check that the ballast is securely attached. Full ballast is essential for safe operations.
8. Check the control head for secure fittings. Never operate the bucket with the control head cover
removed.
9. Check solenoid operation by activating it several times.
10. Activate the head with 24 volts to release the catch, then pull the tripline cable to full extension
from the control head, checking for kinks, frays or loose swages.
NOTICE
When releasing the tripline, the head must be upright at no less than a 60° angle.
11. If a PowerFill Snorkel is installed, inspect the conductor wires for damage, chaffing or wear.
Confirm that the conductor cables are firmly secured.
•The wires should be attached to the nearest suspension line and the Bambi Bucket actuator cable.
•If a long line is used, the wires should be attached to this line also.
12. Inspect the cable connectors for damage and ensure proper connections.
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 Bucket Operations Manual 4
13. 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.
14. Check the filter screen for debris accumulation and clear as necessary.
15. Check the filter screen for signs of damage that may affect water flow.
16. 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 Bucket Operations Manual 5
Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Attaching to the Cargo Hook
The Bambi Bucket is rigged for a lateral cargo hook. Correct attachment is indicated when the name
plate on the control head faces forward in flight. This ensures that the ballast on the Bambi will face
forward in flight.
Control Head Orientation - Models 6072-4453
The control head, used on models 6072-4453, has a moveable
yoke which can be rotated by 90°. The yoke is machined to
orient in either direction. If your helicopter has a longitudinal
hook, rotate the shackle yoke by 90°. This will place the
name plate on the control head forward in flight.
For this style of head, if using a swivel hook, always operate
in the locked position to assure that the ballast is always
facing forward in flight.
In some cases, where the cargo hook is too large for the
standard shackle, a second larger shackle can be used. If the
shackle it too large, it may cause the power cable to tangle,
pulling apart the break away plug.
CAUTION
The Bambi 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 Bucket is
correctly fitted to the helicopter.

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 6
Control Head Orientation - Models 5566-HL9800
For these models, it may be necessary to use a second shackle
to rotate the bucket 90°.
WARNING
Ensure that all shackles are rated with a minimum safety factor of five for the gross weight of the
bucket as shown on the data plate.
WARNING
Do not remove the cover on the control head while operating the Bambi Bucket. With the cover
removed, the tripline safety keeper is no longer functional. Without the safety keeper, the tripline
could separate and cause a tail rotor strike resulting in severe injury or death.
Connecting Power
The Bambi Bucket’s electrical supply is connected through a breakaway plug. The purpose of the plug is
to offer a clean “breakaway” if the Bambi Bucket has to be jettisoned from the aircraft in an emergency.
It is suggested that the plug be lightly taped together with vinyl tape, while in use, to ensure that wind
action does not separate the plug. If the control cable is not secured to the longline, duct tape should be
wrapped every 3 ft (1 m) to prevent any damage to the cable.
NOTICE
To operate the solenoid and release the water, a momentary contact switch is used. The solenoid has a
10% duty cycle (designed to not be operated more than 10% of the time). Operating the solenoid
continuously will result in solenoid failure.

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 7
Checking Tail Rotor Clearance
WARNING
Using a Bambi Bucket with insufficient tail rotor clearance could result in a tail rotor strike which
could result in serious injury or death.
When a Bambi 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 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:
Lengths are accurate to within 1%. Specifications subject to change.
If a firesock is used, add 8” (0.20m) to the above dimensions.
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 extended dump valve. If a firesock is attached, measure to the bottom of the firesock.
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).
NOTICE
If using a longline, the minimum recommended length is 50 ft (15 m).
Model
Overall Length
BB6072
12’- 11”
3.94 m
BB8096
14’- 6”
4.42 m
BB8096S
12’- 11”
3.94 m
BB9011
14’- 6”
4.42 m
BB9011S
12’- 11”
3.94 m
BB1012
14’- 6”
4.42 m
BB1012S
12’- 11”
3.94 m
BB1214
14’- 10”
4.52 m
BB1214S
13’- 3”
4.04 m
BB1518
15’- 2”
4.62 m
BB1518S
13’- 7”
4.04 m
BB1821
15’- 11”
4.85 m
BB1821S
14’- 5”
4.39 m
BB2024
20’- 1”
6.13 m
BB2024S
15’- 10”
4.82 m
Model
Overall Length
BB2226
15’- 10”
4.82 m
BB2732
23’- 0”
7.00 m
BB2732S
15’- 2”
4.63 m
BB3542
23’- 8”
7.22 m
BB420B
23’- 8”
7.22 m
BB4453
23’- 9”
7.25 m
BB5566
24’- 0”
7.32 m
BB680K
24’- 0”
7.32 m
BB6578
24’- 2”
7.37 m
BB7590
30’- 3”
9.21 m
BBHL4000
31’- 8”
9.65 m
BBHL5000
32’- 0”
9.75 m
BBHL7600
32’- 5”
9.87 m
BBHL9800
33’- 6”
10.21 m

Section 3: Deploying the Bucket
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 8
If the tail rotor clearance is insufficient, shorter suspension lines, triplines/riser, ring and restrainer, 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 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 4: Flight Operations
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 9
Section 4: Flight Operations
Flying the Bucket
The Bambi 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 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 Bucket,
under prevailing conditions, to determine a safe maximum flying speed.
In order to reduce drag on the bucket when empty, it can be flown in a valve open position by pressing the
release mechanism once while in forward flight.
The dead weight of the load ensures different handling characteristics than when flying empty. As a
result, the Bambi Bucket does not ‘pulse’ or ‘throb’ under load in flight.
NOTICE
Bambi 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 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 Bucket Operations Manual 10
Filling the Bucket
Once the Bambi 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. A Bambi Bucket does not have to
be towed to make it sink.
WARNING
When filling the Bambi 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 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 lift 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
BB6072
28”
0.71 m
38”
1.00 m
BB8096
29”
0.74 m
40”
1.00 m
BB9011
29”
0.74 m
40”
1.00 m
BB1012
31”
0.79 m
42”
1.01 m
BB1214
33”
0.84 m
44”
1.12 m
BB1518
39”
1.00 m
48”
1.22 m
BB1821
41”
1.04 m
56”
1.45 m
BB2024
43”
1.09 m
58”
1.52 m
BB2226
44”
1.10 m
60”
1.52 m
BB2732
48”
1.22 m
60”
1.52 m
BB3542
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BB4453
57”
1.45 m
78”
2.04 m
BB5566
62”
1.57 m
84”
3.05 m
BB6578
67”
1.70 m
90”
3.05 m
BB7590
73”
1.85 m
96”
3.05 m
BBHL4000
75”
1.90 m
96”
3.05 m
BBHL5000
80”
2.03 m
110”
3.05 m
BBHL7600
95”
2.41 m
120”
3.05 m
BBHL9800
106”
2.70 m
120”
3.05 m
CAUTION
Snagging the Bambi Bucket on submerged objects could result in bucket shell damage.

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 11
Variable Fill Capability
The pilot can vary the bucket’s capacity by the speed at which it is pulled from the water. As the
submerged bucket is lifted, water pressure expands the fabric bucket shell and its internal fiberglass
battens flex outward, increasing the bucket’s volume. The greater the pressure, the more volume the
bucket holds. Volume can also be regulated using the cinch strap on various bucket models. Also,
PowerFill accessories can be used to regulate loads.
NOTICE
Varying the speed of the lift is often the best way to adjust volume. This allows the pilot to vary the
load at each fill to best suit the fuel load and prevailing lift conditions. Most pilots find it takes a dozen
or so fills to get the feel of variable fill action on the Bambi Bucket.
Cinch Strap
The cinch strap, located inside the bucket on models 6072-4453 and outside on models 5566-HL9800,
allows the pilot to reduce the volume of the bucket to a pre-set position. The cinch strap is marked with
percentage settings that denote several load levels. The cinch strap allows you to reduce the volume of
the bucket to lower levels than by straight lifting speed alone.
Use of the cinch strap at minimal bucket volume may result in some loss of the secondary seal because of
the sidewalls of the bucket being more vertical (ideal sealing results from the angle between the sidewall
of the bucket and the valve fabric being close to 90°). It is important to note that the top of the bucket is
always the spill line. The moment that the bucket breaks the surface of the water, it is ready to fly.
High Elevation Operations
In some areas, fire conditions require the reduction of bucket loads to accommodate weight restrictions
caused by high elevation operations. In these circumstances, a smaller bucket or the use of a Bambi
MAX or Bambi Torrentula bucket should be considered.
CAUTION
The lowest fill setting for all models is 70%. Always check the cinch strap to determine the correct
setting.
Do not tighten the cinch strap past the smallest load marking. Over tightening can damage the bucket
shell or prevent the valve from dumping.

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 12
Dumping the Bucket
To dump water from the bucket, simply push and release the dump switch. The weight of the water
inside the bucket will cause the fabric dump valve to turn inside-out through the bottom of the bucket,
giving obstruction-free passage to the escaping water and producing the best possible dump pattern.
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 fire line.
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.
Valve Reset
After all of the water has exited the bucket, the dump valve will automatically retract and reset for the
next fill.
NOTICE
When dumping larger buckets (models 2024 and up), the dump valve may not fully retract and lock
immediately after the bucket is emptied. The valve will retract and lock as soon as the bucket is
immersed again in water during the next dip cycle.
If the valve fails to reset when filling, hit the dump switch again when the suspension lines are slack
before lifting out.

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 13
Landing
The recommended landing procedure allows the bucket to touch down ahead of the helicopter and then
maintain tension on the suspension lines by backing up slightly, thereby keeping the control head at an
angle while landing.
Do not release the control head from the cargo hook while hovering. At height, this could damage the
control head. Land as normal and then detach the control head or hover at approximately two feet and
then release the head.
CAUTION
To avoid damage to helicopters with low skids, never land on a vertical control head. This could
damage the helicopter and/or the control head. The head is approximately 24" (0.61 m) in length.
CAUTION
If the control head has experienced a severe impact, it is necessary to visually examine the top square
lug of the control head base casting to determine if it has been bent or otherwise damaged. If any
control head damage has occurred, the Bambi Bucket should not be flown.
This examination requires the unbolting and removal of the cast yoke surrounding the lug. If the stub is
damaged, the control head base casting requires replacement. The bottom suspension lugs should be
examined for damage as well.
NOTICE
After using the bucket in salt water, wash the bucket with fresh water. Make sure to pay special
attention to the purse strings. The salt can deteriorate the bucket materials if not removed.

Section 4: Flight Operations
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 14
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Section 5: Using Accessories
Bambi Bucket Operations Manual 15
Section 5: Using Accessories
Firesock
When using water, the Firesock breaks down water droplets,
thereby increasing the exposed surface area. This allows for
improved coverage and increased drop accuracy as well as
wider and longer drop patterns
When using foam, the Firesock increases the aeration of the
foam.
To install the Firesock, attach the quick connect links onto the
bottom chain.
When finished using it, make sure to:
•Inspect the Firesock for damage and make repairs.
•Clean the Firesock using fresh water.
•Store the Firesock, attached to the Bambi Bucket,
ensuring both are dry.