Copyright maxitrak 2010
THE MOST DEMANDING FACET OF SUCESSFUL DRIVING IS KEEPING THE FIRE
GOING
Always use the LOCO BLOWER when stationary or if the loco is working ‘light’. Add coal
regularly in small amounts especially when the fire is an all over bright red. Rake out the
fire if steam pressure drops and add fresh coal. Ensure the ASHPAN doesn’t become so
full that it clogs the fire. Equally, don’t fill the firebox so that the bottom row of TUBES are
obstructed. After continuous use on a long run, the SMOKEBOX will probably require
cleaning out. Keep an eye on the contents of the LUBRICATOR. There should always be
oil in the soot in the CHIMNEY. Always drain the lubricator before refilling, adjust the oil
flow so as to use all the oil an about one hour (open about half a turn). On a new loco set
the flow higher, about one turn open, and refill more often.
FINISHING THE RUN
Drop the fire and clean out the ASHPAN. Open the BLOWDOWN VALVE and drain off
the BOILER. Drain off the TANKS or TENDER and clear away any dirt or coal dust. Clean
the SMOKEBOX and TUBES with a flue brush. Clean the accumulated soot and oil from
the loco, including the CHASSIS and WHEELS. Polish all brightwork such as BOILER
BANDS, CHIMNEY TOP, etc.
SAFETY
WHEN WORKING HARD IT IS LIKELY THAT HOT ASH AND SPARKS WILL BE
EMITTED FROM THE CHIMNEY AND A SENSIBLE PRECAUTION IS TO WEAR
INDUSTRIAL GLASSES OR GOGGLES. BE WARY OF THE WATER GAUGE,
ESPECIALLY WHEN TIGHTENING THE SEALING NUTS. BE CAREFUL WHEN FIRING
THAT THE GAUGE GLASS IS NOT CRACKED OR BROKEN WITH THE SHOVEL.
DON’T FORGET THAT THE CONTROL HANDLES ARE VERY HOT IN USE AND A
SMALL PIECE OF CLOTH SHOULD BE CARRIED WHILST DRIVING. ALWAYS OPEN
AND CLOSE THE FIREBOX DOOR WITH THE SHOVEL, NOT BY HAND
LONG TERM MAINTENANCE
The BOILER will need to be ‘de-furred’ occasionally, Use a commercial kettle de-furring
solution, following the accompanying instructions. A furred BOILER should be suspected
when the BLOWDOWN VALVE appears blocked or sluggish when fully open. Use of
clean rain water will help prevent furring of the BOILER.