Work Session Status Week Ending 07/26/2014

July 28, 2014

I would say we just experienced the hottest week this year. As we left the site Saturday around 3 PM our car thermometer indicated a temperature of 103°. Nonetheless the volunteers soldiered on in the heat.

Gail and I had the privilege of having John H. from 3751 as our house guest this past week. I had the opportunity to discuss various electronic requirements and possibilities for the 2926. John will be assisting our crew in the areas of the foam and feed water flow meters, as well as electrical upgrades to the brake stand. We look forward to working with John for the foreseeable future.

The two foam meter probes were removed, tested and found to be acceptable.

Finishing touches are being completed for the crosshead tramming device which centers the piano wire through the steam cylinder.

Various other lubrication fittings were being fabricated in the machine shop.

Last week we received a shipment from Dick D. in Indiana. He fabricated some recirculating water pump parts and various other lubricator fittings. Excellent machine work by another volunteer! Thanks Dick.

Work continues on the superheater bundles as well as the grinding prep work for the flexible staybolt sleeve replacements. The threaded ball replacements for the 29 staybolts which were removed previously arrived from Strasburg last week.

The locomotive was, for the first time, rolled over the new concrete grade crossing. The trailing truck was positioned over the pit for work which has been on hold since the siding repair began.

Areas of the frame are still being cleaned of dirt and grime. Other parts are being cleaned and painted.

Construction of a permanent enclosure for the merchandise store has begun. It should take a few more weeks.

I expect cooler temperatures this week so I hope to see you there at the site. And don’t forget to purchase your superheater bundles online at our website. They are going fast and furious. We appreciate all that have donated theirs so far!

Keep up the good work, and as always . . .

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