Work Session Status Week Ending 10/18/2014

October 20, 2014

As I reported last week we turned our attention to the timing gear and power reverse assemblies. This work continued this week. Workers mounted the power reverse control valves onto the power reverse cylinder. It’s connecting rod being attached to the bell crank allowed us to test the mechanisms for proper operation. This apparatus has been silent for fifty-eight years and was awaken with a shot of compressed air. The power reverse equipment moved effortlessly forward and back as if it had never been out of service.

Next in line was the new eccentric rod bearings being pressed into these two rods. The eccentric rod pins were carefully cleaned of rust inhibitor and shined up for the new bearing and rod. The bearing was thoroughly lubricated and installation has begun on the fireman’s side.

The huge and heavy Walschaert timing gear arm was also installed on both engineer and fireman sides.

After an inspection of the two slides which connect to the piston valve pins we saw clear evidence of metal wasting on their bearing surfaces. They will be reconditioned prior to their reinstallation.

The machine shop continues cranking out air brake pins and bushings along with reconditioning various bolts and items needed for the eventual hydrostatic test.

Hope to see you all at the site this week, and as usual . . .

Keep on Steamin’,
Rick Kirby, CMO
NMSL&RHS