B-17 Pilots Manual.pdf

Ii,---- --.-- _...=--"~----SECTIONIXBA.LL TURRET-.- .-------"--- ~-_._-- ---..--.----- ---~.---- --~~.-~~~-------m__- . ------'--='"~.=~=!::.. The hand control and limit unit controls the outputsof the azimuth and elevation hydraulic systems.A pair of handgrips controls the motion of the turretin azimuth and elevation. Each handgrip has a firingswitch on the top end.d. The switch box controls distribution of the electricpower to the various units in the turret. Theterminal block in the .top left end of the box has convenientposts for connecting the leads of the gunner'shead set and microphone. \2. ENTERING THE TURRET.CAUTIONDo not attempt to rotate the turret in elevationwhile the airplane is on the ground. No crewmember shall be in the turret during landingor take-off and the guns of the turret shallbe in the horizontal position pointing aft.KEY TO FIGURE 70I. ELEVATIONHANDCRANK6. SPOT LIGHT2. HANDCONTROLGRIP 7. ELECTRICALSWITCHBOX3. FIRING SWITCHES 8. SPOT LIGHT CONTROLSWITCHq. OXYGENREGULATOR 9. GUNSELECTORSWITCHES5. AZIMUTHHANDCRANK 10. ELEVATIONPOWERCLUTCHFigure 70 - Interior of Ball Turret1. GENERAL.a. A Sperry ball-type power turret, equipped withtwin .50-caliber machine guns,is installed in the bottomof the fuselage aft of the radio compartment.g. A hydraulic unit provides power for driving theturret in azimuth and elevation.Figure 71 - Loading Ball TurretAmmunitionBoxes70