An example of EXTREMES
 

Two aircraft on our line at NAS Lemoore

One is TACTICAL
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2469/...8f19637a_o.jpg

One is NON-TACTICAL

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2594/...041772e4_o.jpg

The Camo jet is one of our older Lot jets. We have most of the older 'B' models painted in differnt cammie schemes - black/grey, green, sky blue, desert to name a few.
The all White jet came to us from the Navy Test Pilot School (USNTPS). It adds quite a bit of weight to paint the entire jet, so as of yet, this one only has the new squadron markings repainted. It is also an older Lot jet, but looks really nice in its' slick paint job. It usually gets quite a few comments from visitors.

USMCFLYR

The white one looks too pretty to even put fuel and oil in it. I'd be afraid it would just leak all over and ruin that nice paint job. I can't believe they even let the crew chief's even put their grubby hands on it.

That is why I had to stand soooooooo far back to take the picture! :o
Any closer and you would see those exact things!

USMCFLYR

The crew chiefs say the same thing about the knobs who break their jet!:D

I'll have to look at my logbook to see if I refueled 401. That is a great looking jet!

You are correct on BOTH accounts :) Meaning the crew chiefs and the knobs!

I'll have to get the Buno for you on 401. It hasn't been s/n 401 for long.
You actually kept a log of every aircraft you refueled?

USMCFLYR

Normal to leave the refueling probe extended? (green cammie bug)

By the way, feel free to post as many Hornet photos as you want. My absolute most favorite airplane. bar none.

AZFlyer -

It can be out for any number of reasons having to do with inspections or maintenance actions required, but in this case the aircraft had come out of an aircraft wash (14 day inspection) and the probe is left out as part of the post-wash inspection so the CDI (Collateral Duty Inspector) can check things out (they usually use the Emergency Extension method too so that system gets the extra benefit of being checked for correct operation). In case of planned inflight refueling, they will also grease up the tip for easier insertion into the basket (:o Please - no snickering!)

When the aircraft is started up and the HYD 2 system comes on line with the right engine - the probe will retract on its own as long as the switch is in the 'Retract' position.

USMCFLYR

Are you flying out of leemore? I used to fly over that. (a few weeks ago)

Yes Scooter - were you heading into Fresno? I go over th ere to make an approach every now and then.

USMCFLYR