Work Session Status Week Ending 01/18/2014

January 20, 2014

Since the last progress report Mother Nature has been easy on our crew as outside temperatures have been mild with highs in the mid to high 50’s. Time for some rain/snow though as we are DRY!

As you may remember I last reported we had a broken adjusting bolt on the last Franklin compensator and snubber assembly we removed for cleaning and inspection. We were having a difficult time removing the large heavy pedestal binder to get access to the broken adjusting bolt. However our volunteers forever known as “pit rats” eventually prevailed and the pedestal relinquished its grip from the chassis. The bolt was removed and sent to Noor Mfg. for replacement.

Much cleaning of all the mating surfaces of the pedestal and chassis ensued. Congratulations to the “pit rats” who will appear in the upcoming Newsletter.

As usual more flexible staybolt sleeve welding and wasted sleeve removal continues.

Other areas of work included more crud removal from various parts and the chassis.

The second duplex water pump is in its final stages of reassembly.

The last shipment of flexible staybolt sleeves arrived and the crew began cutting them to fit the angle and curvature of the firebox, then beveling the edges to be welded.

Main steam cylinder piston ring segments were unboxed and given a thorough cleaning. Workers completed one side so far.

Carlos O. returned Saturday on a limited work status. He began welding the radial buffer replacement.

Some infrastructure projects were also being accomplished. Per the Safety Officer request some of our trip hazards were painted with yellow caution paint.

Sheet metal side rod protectors were completed, labeled and installed.

An awning for the Reefer entry door was constructed in hopes of deflecting rain and snow from the Reefer door threshold.

We have been experiencing computer problems in the World Headquarters and much time has been spent looking into the problems. It also appears its copier has given up so a replacement is on the horizon.

Wednesday potential contractors visited the site. Those individuals will be offering bids to repair our siding from the pit to the 8th St. entry gate and also construct a metal structure (Engine House) to protect the locomotive and tender. None of the locomotive restoration funds will be used for this project. This project is separately funded by one generous individual.

If you are reading this and you are a member, please be reminded your membership is due for 2014. If funds are not received your name will go to the lapsed member list and taken off our email lists. If you paid the last quarter of 2013 you do not need to repay until next year or at our Christmas card drive. We appreciate any donations we receive otherwise also. Please help us get 2926 back on the tracks and running by continuing your memberships.

Weather looks to be conducive for working this week, so hope to see you at the site, and as always . . .

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