Chama Shop Update Part 2

All of the valve motion parts are pretty well worn out on the K-36s. Many of them are original Baldwin parts although some are replacements off of the k-37s. Here is one of the combination levers off the 484. The number on it indicates that it is an original Baldwin part off the 485. As noted in other discussions, the 485 was stripped of many parts that were used as replacements on the other engines. In the right edge of the picture you will note a rather serious kink in the lever. I have no idea if this trauma was inflicted by the dive into the turntable pit or at a later date. The other one, also off the 485, has similar damage. All of these parts have been repaired many times over the years and are reaching the point where they will have to be replaced. I am anticipating beginning to replace combination levers and valve crossheads during the next round of valve motion repairs.


In this view Dylan is truing up the radius rod.


As part of the driver work we are tramming the drivers. Due to wear on the driving box faces and frame openings this is necessary to keep all the axles correctly oriented and spaced in the frame. The axle center lines are located and marked on the frame. Using these marks, we determine where the shoe and wedge faces need to be. They are then shimmed and machined to the proper thickness. This process is known as laying out the shoes and wedges.


This view shows the #1 and #2 (in the wheel lathe) drivers ready to install.


The #4 driver is complete and ready to install once the shoe and wedge layout is complete. Valve motion parts are going back together and I hope to have all the drivers back under the engine in the next couple of weeks and begin on rod bushing work and valve setting.

We still have a lot of work to do and opening day is ONLY nine weeks away. It will be a busy time.

Russ