The boiler cradle strip down and assessment was completed with the removal of the leading pivot. This sub assembly is in poor condition and subject to detailed measurement, it may have to be sent out for re-machining. The damage sustained is a direct result of no lubrication and as a consequence of this, two extra feed lines will taken off the mechanical lubrication system. This will ensure lubrication to this vital part of the locomotive. The boiler cradle reach rods were repaired and given the usual undercoat treatment. The next workday should see the reach rods and roller assemblies re fitted. The two main reservoir air tanks are now ready for the hydrostatic test and if all goes will they will be re fitted in place.
The second of the four bogies was rolled clear of the hind unit and as expected it resisted all of the way. The locking pin that retains the king pin was completely seized and several attempts to remove it was unsuccessful. As a consequence of this a large part of the morning was dedicated to the cleaning out of the hollow passages in the main frame casting. This allowed access to the locking pin assembly inside the main farm. After we extracted bucket loads of coal and gunk we could at last see the seized locking pin. The usual heating with the oxy torch did not seem to do much and it was looking like a "too hard" scenario would prevail here. However to our surprise, with several blows of the sledge hammer the pin stated to move. After we extracted the locking pin the King pin dropped straight to the ground without fuss. Half an hour later the bogie was clear of the hind engine unit. As can be seen in the photos years of grime will have to be removed before disassembly can take place.
The first bogie that was removed last month now sports its second coat of black paint. All of the components are progressively being repaired and painted. Our next few workdays should complete this bogie with significant progress on the second one. It is anticipated that the last two bogies will be relatively quick to complete as they do not have brake gear fitted.
Our next few workdays will focus on the bogies and when competed the re assembly stage of the project will start in earnest. However we still need your help either financially or in person. Our next workday is Sunday the 20th of September and could I please ask that you take the time to come along and help. Lunch is provided!
Alan Gardner
