BRHSLIST
[Top] [All Lists]

"Old" Steam Locomotives.

To: BRHSlist@yahoogroups.com
Subject: "Old" Steam Locomotives.
From: "cbq1968" <karl5631@a...>
Date: Sun, 16 Dec 2001 03:18:25 -0000
User-agent: eGroups-EW/0.82
There were several good messages concerning old steam locomotives and 
the need to spend some "fun time" preparing them for movement.

Engines that have been on "display" for decades require some special 
TLC before they are moved if any thought is being given to restoring 
them to service. These are extremely durable machines but, like all 
machines, they have certain, definate needs and requirements.

Among the most critical of these needs is lubrication. Also, on the 
subject of lubrication, the lubricated surfaces must be free of rust 
and accumulated dirt and grit. The preparation of the various 
rotating and sliding surfaces is too involved to cover in a posting 
on the list but would be provided, off-list, to those having a need 
for same.

Let it suffice to say that NO movement should be attempted with the 
main rods connected to the crossheads since severe damage to the 
cylinder bore can result from dry pistons moving in dirty bores. 
Also, do not allow the valves to slide in their bores for the same 
reason.

As for the crown brass it is good practice to try to eliminate as 
much rust and grit as possible before moving the engine but it must 
be remembered that the required fourty year inspection will demand 
that the boxes be disassembled allowing the bearing surfaces to be 
renewed.

Among the other concerns is the loss of sheet thickness as the result 
of years of moisture collected in the lagging surrounding the boiler 
and firebox wrapper. The only method of determining the extent of 
this loss is by a through cleaning of the boiler and wrapper folowed 
by an inch-by-inch density check using ultra sound equipment. 

Any group contemplating a restoration to service of a locomotive 
should begin by obtaining a copy of CFR49, Part 230. This document 
contains the new requirements for steam locomotive operation and 
repairs. It's available from various web sites or from me, if a 
person has a need for the information.

I'll be glad to answer questions on this subject on or off list if 
there's an interest.

Karl


<Prev in Thread] Current Thread [Next in Thread>