Engine Restoration
 Dick Masters works on the boiler of Yankee Tank no.30075. Credit: Jim Cobb, 28/06/2003 Every 10 years or so, Steam Engines have to go through a thorough overall, even possibly a rebuild. This is due to wear and tear on the engine, but mainly because boilers have a hard life and need repairing periodically. Every time a steam engine is lit, the water in the boiler goes from ambient temperature to boiling, resulting in expansion of the various elements that make up the boiler. As the pressure in a steam boiler ranges from 150psi to 250psi, it needs to be in excellent condition to ensure it does not explode. For this reason, at least every 10 years, the boiler is stripped down and rebuilt. At the same time, the rest of the engine is overhauled and any problems fixed. The process of overhauling an engine can take several years and as the railway has several engines to look after, overhauling is an ongoing process and there are usually engines waiting to be done. The engine currently going through overhaul is the ex-Great Western Railway 56xx no.5637 and a details of this overhaul can be found on the project page for this engine. Previous overhauls have been recorded in the Photo gallery and can be found below -
Engine Restoration is a very manual and expensive task, and we are always look for help, either with donations or with more volunteers. We also take on sub-contract boiler and machining work for other railways and heritage organisations. For quotations or enquiries, please contact the station on 01749 880417. |
