MD-83
Fatigue; Situational Awareness; Time Pressure; Training / Qualification; Troubleshooting; Workload
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Aircraft; Human Factors
An Aircraft arrived with a [Pilot Report] for Nose Landing Gear (NLG) Loud Thump on Taxi (Item had history). After replacing numerous parts and Rig check problem still exist. Lead that was working the issue came to me and said after replacing the Control valve and checking the Rigging that he believes the issue is within the strut of the gear. He suggested that the only way to really determine it was the strut was to ride within the Nose wheel well of the left side of the Aircraft (AC) while taxiing the AC. I asked him who was going to perform the task; and he told me he had no issue riding within the opening of the wheel well. I approved this action feeling there was No safety issue due to the space within the area. The only safety precaution from myself was to pin the gear and assure he would not be subject to any moving parts within the area. Also that radio communication was used. The task was performed with a positive determination that the noise was in the gear itself. After scrutiny from other shifts as to what a stupid decision it was; I felt a need to file this report. I myself take full responsibility for allowing the lead to perform this task. I do not feel his safety was compromised at any time. We are short staffed; personnel not badged; short equipment and stores support. Always being pressured to have AC ready and on time. This is not an excuse for my poor decision. Should not have said yes.
While troubleshooting an MD83 Nose Landing Gear (NLG) issue; a Lead Mechanic rode on the NLG Wheel well while the aircraft was taxing.