1. Cleaning various parts for the #6 in preparation of its boiler's return to the MCRR shop.
2. Cab work and train brake installation on the D-9 Plymouth diesel switch engine.
The boiler repair for the #6 is almost complete. On the days following the first weekend of March, five MCRR volunteers (Mike E, Don E, Dave O, Dan H, and Griffin W) traveled to the boilermaker's shop and installed the flues. Most (if not all) of the stay bolts have been installed and many still need to be welded. The boilermaker has a few other items to complete before the boiler can be delivered to the MCRR. Everyone at the MCRR is anxious to start the 6's reassembly.
In anticipation of the boiler's return, various mini-tasks have been started and some have been completed (see the February 2010 blog entry).
The next picture shows Eric C cleaning the new (well, new to the 6) hydrostatic lubricator. The previous hydrostatic lubricator was "problematic" and replacing it was an easy decision. The MCRR has numerous hydrostatic lubricators on the shelves awaiting installation in a locomotive.
Eric C and Abe C, along with Shop Supervisor Mike E take apart the new hydrostatic lubricator for cleaning and inspection.
Various parts are being cleaned and sandblasted. The sandblasting of the parts will remove any baked grease or other pieces of junk that might have been on the part.
Brian B and Dallas K clean the 6's firebox ash pan, removing bits of firebrick and other bits of detritus. While the following picture looks like an amateur art welder's version of a duck, the assembly is actually the firebox. The plate sticking up in front is the draft door.
The firebox door's frame is being inspected after being sandblasted.
Bill W. is cleaning one of the two the brake cylinders which pushes the brake shoes against the wheels, similar to the brakes in a car.
In the background is Kim Weaver cleaning the mechanical lubricator.
Together, the mechanical lubricator and the hydrostatic lubricator provide the correct amount of steam cylinder oil.
Steve R cleaning the regulators for 6's air brakes.
Dustin B chats with Griffin W and Brian B from the cab of the Plymouth D-9 switch engine.
-John G (aka STEAM9)
