Overhaul update
The first job completed by the working party in 2022 was a minor one: fit the shackle to the front drawbar. It will no doubt be removed again when it’s noticed that it hasn’t yet been painted!
Later this year, the workshop will be disrupted as a new roof and a gantry crane are fitted and installed. We have a number of parts stored in this area and these need to be removed to safe storage. This takes up space which will be at a premium and has the risk of parts becoming mislaid. One place to store them is back on the engine, and both front running plate drop sections were so fitted. The right side went well.
We knew before we started that the left side would put up a fight. The buffer beam on this side is bent slightly rearwards, causing the front and main sections to overlap and not sit flush. Strong words and threats with a big crowbar eventually persuaded it all into place.
Almost. The main plate work can be jacked across and, once the retaining bolts are tight, will stay put. As the fitment was only temporary, it wasn’t worth doing at this time. The filler plates ahead of this section were fitted before we left.
A wider view of the same area.
The superheater header has now been clamped to the big miller following its return from specialist welding.
The welding filled the cracks which the Non-Destructive Testing had identified. The welds were then ground flat, but now need drilling for two tapered holes to seat the elements and one stud hole to retain them. The other taper faces are in good condition and require only a light skim.
In the boiler shop, more stays have been installed but on the day, SVR staff Phil and Jack were fitting the rivets to the right side front corner of the foundation ring. It’s thirsty work, riveting . . .
A close up view of area, with a pneumatic hammer resting on top.