Visiting RailCorp heritage loco 3642 in steam outside on the apron was not only performing a heritage train operation to Newcastle but it also carried a special headboard as a tribute to steam legend and oldmate Ian Thornton. Well done lads!
With the pig departed the steam action continued inside the large with the Canberra boys busy hotting up 6029's cab roof.....
...and knocking down the bolt heads to convert the cab temporarily to an open top model.
The cab roof hatches allow vital cool air into the hot cab for crews and as they have deteriorated badly during the years of storage they will be remanufactured prior to the cab being reunited with the boiler unit.
Keep up the progress boys and dont forget how it goes back together!
2 other steam locos were also receiving attention with 3237 getting the wash out treatment....
..and 5917 receiving a few new stays. Thanks to Robs excellent machining skills theres no problem supplying the requirements just like has been done at Eveleigh for 120 years.
As usual the P Reynell testimonial lunchtime BBQ & salad bar proved a big hit with the hungry workers and struggled to cope with the demand. Next time we might have to use 2 feeds?
Carriages of course received the majority of attention during the day with the visiting LVR FS cars getting some specialist works completed by the Eveleigh work days volunteers.
Windows are a constant work task and these cars are no exception.
To ensure ongoing safe operations the windows are being inspected and where required removed for adjustment or overhaul.
The cover strips and side runners are removed and all components including the screws carefully placed so none are lost.
Once out the windows are stripped down and repaired as required or replaced as necessary.
Over time many items wear and need replacement including often overlooked details like door felts.
These items may look decorative but they help keep the drafts out, reduce the doors rattling whilst on the move and protect wayward fingers that could get trapped between closing doors.
The felts have a rubber insert and are nailed in place.
Work donwstairs on the HKB accelerated at a great rate thanks to the focussed efforts of a small team. Chris decided to tackle the replacing of the remaining step boards and treads and was soon grinding.....
... and banging.....
...to get the old steps off.
Chris is now sourcing new timber and has started shaping the new steps ready for fitting.
With a clear run at the underframe the dynamic duo of Graham and Ron continued to needle gun the frame and soon had it looking like new.
Graham is one of the stalwart workers on the Oberon Heritage Tourist railway and his efforts to assist at Eveleigh is a greatly appreciated example of inter group support. Ron of course is one of our inspirational oldmates from waaaay back.
Bob followed the boys applying a good coat of primer to the frames....
..and the result speaks for itself.
Thanks all, see you next fortnight.
