KevinM Wrote:
> I'm with you on the scope of a 1,472 SDI and the
> possible "discoveries"
that can occur when you
> tear a boiler down. I'm also aware that no
> matter what, the 346 would need a fresh 1,472 if
> she were to travel to the C&TS for an event.
> What I was getting at was the wording in Jeff's
> post responding on the question of 346 coming to
> the C&TS. He referred to her as being "tired,
> and has other issues." Knowing that the engine
> had been in the shop at Strasburg for a year back
> in 2004, and that she hasn't run a ton of miles in
> the ensuing 15 years, his description had me
> wondering if the original work was limited to just
> what it took to get her boiler compliant with
> whatever regulations the museum operates
> under......vs. a comprehensive "rebuild."
>
> /Kevin Madore
No it was not a comprehensive rebuild. Quite a bit of work was done. IE tubes, front tube sheet, firebox repairs, belly patch, pretty thorough driver box work, tires turned, and a new tender frame and tank. But other items were left alone for a later rebuild.
So I'll be honest. When I say tired I mean the running gear, valve motion and some additional boiler work is in order. The rod brass is worn, her crank pins will need to be inspected, she had a steam chest head failure several years ago. 318 provided a "temporary" replacement. It is time to replace this head with new and give 318 hers back. 346 steam chests altogether are pretty worn, and we need to put in alot of work there. 346 still has at least 1 undersized axle, she needs new tires, and years ago the flange on the right rear driver was spray welded at Burnham then machined.
Getting back to boiler work. We have several staybolts with wastage at the bottom, and there is some significant oxygen pitting on the side sheets at the mudding. This pitting goes back many years and our water treatment has slowed its progression significantly. We are constantly monitoring this pitting. I want to address all of this and whatever else we find. If I had my way I would like to replace the firebox. Solve the pitting and staybolt issues all at once.
As I have said before if allowed I want to bring 346 up to FRA spec. This will cost significant funding and several years to complete. If you want to see 346 keep running with the slim chance of her visiting NG country then please donate with a notation for 346.
Jeff Taylor
CRRM curator of equipment and rolling stock.