Airmen ensure jets are ready for takeoff

By , 92nd Air Refueling Public Affairs / Published April 11, 2012

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Applying high torque in the range of 1,850 to 2,040 inch-pounds of pressure, Airmen 1st Class Nick Rosario and Martin Felix Manchado, 92nd Maintenance Squadron repair journeymen, complete the final step of a rim installation at the jet tire shop at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., on April 5, 2012. Securing a total of 18 bolts on each jet tire, requires attention to detail from both Airmen. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski)

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Airman 1st Class Nick Rosario, 92nd Maintenance Squadron repair journeyman, prepares a compression tool for use in the jet tire repair shop at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., on April 5, 2012. The compression tool is used to bring each side of the rim closer, making them able to attach. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski)

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, WASH. -- Repair journeymen from the 92nd Maintenance Squadron perform required maintenance on tires for Fairchild's KC-135 Stratotankers here April 5.

Over time the tires wear down and need to be replaced. In order for these Airmen to complete their portion of the mission, they must take apart and inspect each tire. If wear becomes too excessive, then the tire cannot be retread. Tires are organized by year with some dating back as far as 2006. Each tire is used for as long as it can safely support the mission.