Engineering notes

By Tony Massau

The reversing shaft has been put in place on the loco but will be temporarily disturbed to fit the spacer rings which reduce end float.

Machining of the piston valve head grooves into which the rings are fitted is in progress.

Drilling and tapping of holes in the smokebox saddle for set screws to secure the edges of the footplating has been taking place. More brackets to secure lubrication pipework have appeared around the front footplating.

Firebox work continues.

The upgrade of the main works building has now finished and the contractors have left the site. Moving all the railway equipment and materials back in is taking place.