Engineering News - Progress Report
from Steaming Up issue 5 - September 2002 - photos by Maurice Parker
Work has continued steadily since the last issue of “steaming up”. On the engineering front the main development is that the boat once again has an engine (although not as yet in position) and a boiler. Derek from the museum has completed his work and the engine and boiler were delivered to site recently. The next step is for the cabin to be completed. Ian Kemp is currently working on this, following which the engine and boiler can be positioned exactly.
In the meantime, the picture here shows that a lot of the now repainted running gear has been re-erected. Kildare has now been repainted and is back at the museum.
Readers will remember that we are going to use a profession steam engineering company to install the pipework. This being Thompsons who have already completed the boiler work. It is hoped that they will be able to start work within the next four weeks.
A slightly disappointing note has been struck with regard to the displacement lubricator shown in the last issue. That is the “Powell half pint lubricator” unfortunately when Dave Stott stripped the new lubricator to check its condition. It was badly blocked inside and the pipe to the bulb was completely blocked. He managed to clear these blockages, then discovered the glass tube was broken up in the neck. All the needle valves require repacking. He rang Preston steam and described the problem to Michael who stated that all items are supplied as seen. He has therefore decided to use the mechanical lubricator and change the drive to chain. Dave is convinced that in the long run it will be more efficient. But perhaps not as nice to look at. Simon Nuttall
Craning the boiler in onto greased slides
Craning the engine and boiler in
On 23rd July the engine and boiler were together for the first time. The engine was brought over from the museum workshop were Derek has been working on it for a number of months. All components have been measured. The new flywheel has been bolted on as has the old barring wheel.
Boiler being drawn into the cabin
Our new engine ready to go into the boat. Attached to the front is a new smooth faced flywheel. Dave Stott has yet to decide whether to paint it. At the rear can be seen the barring wheel from the old engine. The massive construction and engineering can clearly be seen.
Now that’s a sight for sore eyes. The new engine in the engine room for the first time. Doesn’t it look the part? Standing at about head height (remember the floor is not yet in) it will dominate the engine room like the old engine never could. So immaculately engineered I am sure we will have some new engine room volunteers – roll on the autumn when it will steam for the first time.
Work Party Report
On 17th August, Dave Stott, Simon Nuttall, Geoff and Jack Dean, Martin Burke, Brian Empsall and Nick Haynes met at the Museum to complete ‘Kildare’. The 10 tons or so of ballast was craned off and the boat cleaned from top to bottom. A lot of the accumulated junk was binned. It was also decided that the table and benches would be ditched in favour of folding tables and chairs. But, watch this space for further developments on ‘Kildares’ hold.
More hard labour! Dave Stott on the windlass, about to lift some
railway lines from Kildare's hold.
Photo Nick Haynes
Kildare, at the museum almost looking finished & with the crew contemplating the days work!
Note the green section. This is believed to be the correct livery.
Photo Nick Haynes
Last edited:- 06-Aug-2008