Re: Cracked Firebox

rod Wrote:
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> I would think that part of problem solving process
> is the need to determine why the firebox would
> crack in the first place. Based on the reports of
> how this engine is being (over) worked I would
> think it should be something of a concern.
> Understanding that we talking about metal that is
> being heated and cooled daily it is not hard to
> imagine how this could occur. The question at the
> back of my mind is of all the other Baldwin oil
> fired engines that are in daily operation around
> the US have they experienced this type of problem?
> Or is this an operator/operation induced failure
> the result of asking too much from this engine?
>
> Rod


I seem to recall something about one operator on the loop who insisted on rapid fire-ups. If he's still there, I fear the results. I'm hoping this is simply a small crack, but have enough structural design & repair experience to know how fast cracks can travel.

If this is a small crack and everything goes right they could have it running Monday. But that's a lot of if's. At the worst the entire sheet would need replaced, which takes longer than my crystal ball can see. I would guess we will find out more next week. Until then, we don't know who or what caused the problem. Not a good time to start flaming anyone.

Fred in Wichita
Cantankerous Geezer