Figure 10-22. - P1 pontoons on assembly angles

and started by hand to thread the FN1 nut (fig. 10-23). The bolts should be snugly tightened, then backed off about one turn.

Positioning Upper Angles

The second pair of assembly angles is placed on the top of the pontoons and positioned and bolted in

Figure 10-23. - Positioning of A6B bolt and FN1 nut to connect pontoon to assembly angle.

the same manner as the bottom pair of angles. Spreader jacks, come-alongs, or heavy-duty pinch bars can be used to align holes for the top angles.

Tightening Bolts

After all of the A6B assembly bolts have been installed, final tightening is accomplished with an impact wrench or 48" ratchet wrench in those locations where accessories or assembly plates are not bolted to the structure.

NOTE: The proper setting of A6B bolts requires tightening to a 2,400-foot-pound torque. (The applicable rule is to draw the bolt or nut up tight and then add another half turn.)

FINAL ASSEMBLY OF STRING CP1 chain plates, LA1 launching angles, or other accessories that attach to the outer edge of the particular structure under construction can be installed on the string at this time, if desired. Strings, requiring the addition of a launching angle, should be so assembled on the way that the launching angle can be installed on the top of the string. After installation of the chain plates, the A6B assembly bolts that attach the parts are tightened, and the chain plates or other accessory items are welded, as required. KPl keeper plates can be installed at this time in all locations for which they are specified for the one string of the structure being built. After all fittings are in place and the assembly bolts tightened, the assembly should be inspected for security of bolts and fittings. After the first string has been launched, the same assembly procedures are followed for assembly of the second and additional strings, as applicable.

LAUNCHING A STRING

If the pontoon string has been assembled along the edge of a dock, it can be tilted into the water by means of jacks or a crane. If it has been assembled on a way, the anchorage is released and the string is allowed to glide head-on into the water. Note that adequate freeboard will be required for this method of launching. End launchings can be accomplished from flat or nearly flat ways by pushing the string with a bulldozier or pulling it with a tug or M-boats. Strings also have been assembled inland and pulled to the shoreline by a bulldozer. A line, secured to the string before launching, should be made fast ashore to keep the string from drifting away in either side launching