1 August 2024
Lifting the frames
21 May 2024
Welding the preheated inside cylinder block
7 April 2024
Tender update
As work is proceeding on the loco at pace, we have now turned our attention to our new tender, so far had got as far a rolling chassis with the tank just dropped on it for storage.
We have now signed a new contract with the MId-Hants Railway, for them to finish the tender, by fitting the braking system, and pipework.
Part of the work will be checking and recording everything so we can show clear traceability for possible mainline use.
So to access the frames, the tank was lifted off using the lifting jacks.
Frames in Ropley works ready work to start
Tank awaiting temporary bogies to move it out of the way.
Tank lifed clear, rolling the frames out the way
Tender and jacks all lined up
12 March 2024
Wadebridge 34007 Engineering Report
Cylinders
As recorded in my last report the Outside Cylinders have been tested and this had shown up a number of cracks. All three cylinders were delivered to Cast Iron Welding in Coalville and it was agreed with Cast Iron Welding that the middle cylinder would have weld repairs at a cost of around £5,300. It was also agreed that the best course of action for the outside cylinders was ‘stitching’ a cold process that avoids possible distortion. The week beginning 4th March, Cast Iron Welding reported that they had completed repairs and that subject to measurements being satisfactory; the cylinder could be shipped back to Heywood. On Monday 11th March Riley’s reported that the stitch repairs to the outside cylinders had been completed by the Contractor and so all three cylinders are available for refitting to the frames, subject to any additional machining.
Frames
Work has continued on the frames and stretchers with weld repairs where required, NDT Testing, new fitted bolts and rivets. Currently work is concentrated on repairs and fabrication to the front buffer beam area.
Steam Reverser
Work has continued on strip down and machining new parts for the steam reverser. There has been a short delay in machining parts due to staff sickness at Riley’s.
Driving Wheels
The old tyres have been removed and wheel centres have been turn in readiness for new tyre fitting. Also journals have been dealt with. As of w/e 8th March new tyres are in transit from South Africa.
No progress to date, however, having spoken to Greg McGill on Monday 11th March, it is still likely that the boiler will go straight to Riley’s new premises in Bury and work will commence there.
Tender
Following the visit from Recardo Rail to Ropley on the 8th February we have a much better understanding of the Assessment requirements for the new build Tender. If we are unable to provided test certificates or source documents for components we already have, we will at a minimum, need to include retesting and in some cases verification of material and processes used. I have started a spreadsheet with information provided by Dave Williams, attached, which will form the bases of our investigation and submission to Ricardo.
Now we have a Contract with MHR Ltd the Tender has been moved into the shed at Ropley and some work has started. This has included, removing and stripping the buffers and draw hook for inspection and testing, removing the incorrect lamp brackets from the rear of the Tender.
David Ford
