Engineering notes

By Tony Massau

The loco has been partially dismantled. The smokebox, chimney, water tanks and footplating alongside the smokebox have all been removed in preparation for the trial fit of the boiler and firebox into the chassis. The boiler and firebox are now fitted together with enough temporary bolts to hold everything secure for the installation which is anticipated very soon. The boiler barrel is still very much an empty shell at present and the whole unit will have to be removed again from the loco to be completed.

Whilst the water tanks are off there are some pipe support brackets to be welded on and a number of jobs to attend to on the cylinders and steam chests with regard to the lubrication system. Access is a bit easier with the footplating alongside the smokebox out of the way. Vacuum pipework under the left hand water tank has stuttered to a halt again whilst the tank is off the loco.

The coupling rod forgings are at The Boro' Foundry for machining.