Backhead, firebox & driving wheel assessment

 Work has continued with the assessment of the firebox condition and the removal of the worn tyres on the driving wheels for measuring. The firebox and boiler were NDT tested and the backhead, and possibly the throatplate, need replacing.The tyres will be replaced, and the hope is that some spare ones we have will fit. 

Backhead ready for NDT test.

 

Benny cleaning the heads off the backhead rivets with the plasma cutter.

Backhead rivets nearly all burnt out. Split between it and sides visible.

Backhead removed.

Backhead removed and stays now visible. These will be burnt out.

Firebox throat plate will probably need replacing.

RH side with driving wheels removed. Gleaming 5025 stands guard!

Looking down through frames - driving wheel axle removed.

Driving wheel axle stabled on new road to new running shed.

John Hunt cutting the tyre of the one side of the wheel.

The other tyre has already been cut. The tyres will be replaced.

Tyre cut on both sides. Gap appearing between tyre and wheel.

Tyre cut through and loose on wheel.

James (Jim) McPherson, a valued volunteer at The Strathspey Railway, who passed away on the 3rd August, worked on Austerity No 9. His family very generously donated some of the collection at his funeral to the restoration of this locomotive. Thank you.