12 March 2024

Wadebridge 34007 Engineering Report

Cylinders

As recorded in my last report the Outside Cylinders have been tested and this had shown up a number of cracks.  All three cylinders were delivered to Cast Iron Welding in Coalville and it was agreed with Cast Iron Welding that the middle cylinder would have weld repairs at a cost of around £5,300.  It was also agreed that the best course of action for the outside cylinders was ‘stitching’ a cold process that avoids possible distortion.  The week beginning 4^th March, Cast Iron Welding reported that they had completed repairs and that subject to measurements being satisfactory; the cylinder could be shipped back to Heywood.  On Monday 11^th March Riley’s reported that the stitch repairs to the outside cylinders had been completed by the Contractor and so all three cylinders are available for refitting to the frames, subject to any additional machining.

Frames

Work has continued on the frames and stretchers with weld repairs where required, NDT Testing, new fitted bolts and rivets. Currently work is concentrated on repairs and fabrication to the front buffer beam area.

Steam Reverser

Work has continued on strip down and machining new parts for the steam reverser.  There has been a short delay in machining parts due to staff sickness at Riley’s.

Driving Wheels

The old tyres have been removed and wheel centres have been turn in readiness for new tyre fitting. Also journals have been dealt with.  As of w/e 8^th March new tyres are in transit from South Africa. 

No progress to date, however, having spoken to Greg McGill on Monday 11^th March, it is still likely that the boiler will go straight to Riley’s new premises in Bury and work will commence there.

Tender

Following the visit from Recardo Rail to Ropley on the 8^th February we have a much better understanding of the Assessment requirements for the new build Tender.  If we are unable to provided test certificates or source documents for components we already have, we will at a minimum, need to include retesting and in some cases verification of material and processes used.  I have started a spreadsheet with information provided by Dave Williams, attached, which will form the bases of our investigation and submission to Ricardo.

Now we have a Contract with MHR Ltd the Tender has been moved into the shed at Ropley and some work has started.  This has included, removing and stripping the buffers and draw hook for inspection and testing, removing the incorrect lamp brackets from the rear of the Tender.

David Ford