Here i will show what the process is and what happens behind the scenes.
Here we have a P-4B helmet to be checked. It is virtually intact and only requires 1 item to be added - which i can make easily from my Sabre Business unit - a chinstrap.
The helmet is checked for any damage, or issues that may require it to be dismantled and repainted. With this P-4B i have decided to go with it as is to keep it historical value.
The interior is fine and is unusually intact and near new nearly.
The helmet is given a quick wash/clean down with water and a rag to remove any dust or grease that has accumulated on it in storage.
I then clean the MBU-5/P oxygen mask i had in storage and prepare it for connecting to helmet.
I will be storing this on a foam head, so i will mount the helmet on the head and prepare the oxygen mask to connect up.
I connect the left hand side com cord and then hook up the 2 single slot bayonets so the oxygen mask is secured to the helmet.
This is now a completed and authentic early to mid 1960s P-4B flight helmet as worn by tactical and strategic crews in the USAF.
Another example is a new RAAF LPU - Secumar type - 1980 - 2005 era.
It is brought out of the box for checking and cleaning. The nylon casing is cleaned, all zippers checked, the internal bladder checked and straps on the side and back adjusted for my body.
Inside the LPU casing when unzipped, is a orange rubber bladder. It is packed in with a pull type activation lever for the gas charged bottle which then inflates the bladder. The A is for automatic inflation and is bright yellow to warn the aircrews. Note the reflective on the bladder shining in the photo.
