D1010. Good progress today. Neil managed to re-build the defective part of the compressor and subsequently ran it ok. Inside the loco Gordon was busy working on various parts associated with the fuel system. It is hoped that the water system can be filled up very soon, before the engine oil is added. The engine can then be tested using a remote fuel supply system. Currently the fuel tanks require more cleaning work before they are capable of being used again due to years of sludge build up.
D3462. The oil cooler elements were finally sorted on the front of the loco today by Matt, John assisted by Darren and Leeroy. Previously at least one had been leaking. Other work on the cab roof is required before the loco is handed back to the Railway for traffic use.
03119. The loco is still undergoing attention inside the shed. New parts for the starter motors were obtained today which had previously worn out. The splines on the starter motors engage with the flywheel to start the loco. Unfortunately they wear out over time eventually causing the loco to not start properly.
In the week we were paid a visit by some thieves. Several items of value were removed from a secured compound, which have not been recovered at this time. Luckily Police and security regularly patrol our site and they caught the thieves in the act, having returned for a second time that evening. Excellent work from Mineheads finest! Police in our area also undertake covert surveillance and operations targeted at metal thieves. Metal theft is becoming an increasingly large problem for heritage railway type operations, it seems that they will nick anything to be honest be it signs, posts or larger items! We would like to remind anybody seeing anything or anyone acting suspiciously when you are out or about the West Somerset Railway to please report it to the police without delay. Do not put yourself in danger and dial 999 if you feel it is urgent.
Terry has sent in some pics with appropriate captions!
1.Leroy and Darren have their own smoke generator and Paul B dissappears in the fog
2.Gordon out with the scraper as he cleans up the locker for the compressor filter on D1010
3.03 air tanks removed and ready for inspection
4.Matt's dropped a penny !!!
5.WHY Me? !!Says Neil, will it ever run again? As Leroy places his hands on D1010 and leaves a greasey mark to proove it!
