Mad-Mex

That is the start up procedure in the real F-5, if memory serves me right: 1) Air to #2 2) RPM above 12% press ignition switch and clock at same time then move throttle to idle 3) Engine should ignite within 30 seconds otherwise abort start and motor engine for 30 seconds to blow out any fuel in the engine 4) Once engine and systems are checked and steady change air to #1(left) don't think it had a bleed air starting system, the air was changed from 2 to 1,,,,,, the T-38A am positive had a diverter valve which was supposed to automatically change to give #1 air, but ti was disconnected because of failure rate, we just used a 1/2 wrench to divert the air to #1.

When the alternate release handle was pulled in flight, it basically released the gear to free-fall so gravity would lock the gear down. The only disadvantage we could ever figure out was that if the reset switch was not placed in the reset position (up if memory serves me right) when the engine was started, there would be no way the pilot could release the gear if it was needed, the switch was down near the pilots left foot. We were required to either start the engine or hookup hydraulic and electrical power once the handle was pulled to reset the switch, can neither confirm or deny that step was followed. Again, I could be getting my F-5 and T-38 systems mixed up!

I also have CH pedals and find the NWS to be spot on. Try this, do not use NWS until speed is well below 50 knots.

Yes and no,,,,,, allow me, the speed brakes as well as the gear doors are open during taxing. If the aircraft arrives at the chocks and they are NOT opened and the aircraft is shut down before it is noticed (it happened, not that often but it happened), ground crews would have two choices to open the speed brakes and gear doors: 1) Hook up the air cart and motor the engines so they could be opened up this would require a engine run certified ground crew member to do this since not all ground crews were certified for this. 2) Hook up a hydraulic test stand and a power cart, pressurize the systems and energize the aircraft, then open the speed brakes/doors. The "unofficial" was to open the gear doors was to pull the alternate gear release handle of the left side of the front cockpit or if your arms and hands were small pry open the gear door locks with a screwdriver. It has been 20+ years since I worked on them so some procedures might have changed.

To dream what it must of been like to fly those jets from the 425th TTS, black widows I saw taxing by while I fixed T-38's in the 80's at Willimas AFB Arizona.

I hope so, my photoshop skills are less than average, plus it would bring back memories of seeing those F-5 taxing.

I hope one of the skins is the 425th TTFS which was at the now closed Williams AFB.