If you do not have a WSR-88D Transition Power Source (TPS) unit or have one of the older models (i.e., Jackson, KY and Altus AFB, OK) , please disregard this FAXBack now, thank you. If you have a TPS unit, we recommend that you take the actions described below until further notice.

A few of the 80+ TPS units have failed catastrophically recently due to bearing failures and subsequent failure of the protective systems. Many other TPS units have performed well since their installation. However, the OSF and TPS manufacturer recommend that you take the following actions to help prevent further catastrophic failures and increase the likelihood that the TPS manufacturer will be able to determine the cause of the problems and implement a correction. We recognize that the actions described below will impose an additional workload on you, but believe that is best for the TPS and NEXRAD Program to take the following actions.

On a weekly or every other week basis, visually and audibly observe the TPS for the following conditions:

1. Higher-than-normal vibration which may result in higher-than-normal noise,
2. High-pitched squealing noises from the TPS bearing area,
3. Strong burning smells, or
4. Magnet particles or pieces in the motor or generator control cabinets.

If you detect any of the above phenomena, we recommend that you transfer the TPS unit to external bypass and shut down the unit. Then, please call the WSR-88D Hotline to report the problem as soon as practical. The Hotline will inform the government TPS Contract Officer Technical Representative of the shut down.