[snopercod]

To bring up something totally new, realize that as the orbiter ascends, the gasses contained within the wings, wheel wells, payload bay, OMS pods, etc. must be vented outside.

There are (IIRC) 14 vent doors along the sides of the orbiter to accomplish that task. Frankly I never knew via what path the air in the wings and wheel wells got vented. I assume into the midbody then out the vent doors.

If the vent path for the LMG wheel well got plugged, I'm guessing it might blow out the bulb seal around the door perimeter.

At least we FReepers are ON THE PROBLEM!

[Cold Heat]

I'm guessing it might blow out the bulb seal around the door perimeter.

It could explain the head transference to the side wall I/R sensors, but the crack would be covered with refractor tiles, would it not?

[XBob]

interesting, I don't know anything about blocking 'vents', but as far as blowing seals - we numbers of heating problems due to irregularities in gap-filler aerodynamics and very high heating.