Removing the tyres from the leading & trailing wheelsets.

 21st August - A great way to start the week! 

A ring of fire, designed to heat the tyres on No 9 's wheelsets to about 260°c +, constructed by Alan French, was used for the first time and proved ideal for the job - of course! The expansion of the tyres allow them to be removed, with some persuasion! The wheel centres never got more than 35°c. See video section for more action. All 4 tyres were removed during Monday - a job well done!

The eccentics were removed from the driving set the previous Saturday.

Eccentrics removed for cleaning, grit blasting and protecting.

The ring of fire being tested. 110 small holes drilled on the tube.

A nice even flame on the tyre.

The first tyre is off the wheel!

Axle up ended and 2nd tyre being heated.

Both tyres removed.

All 4 tyres removed. 

Nick Thompson, Roddie McRae, Alan French & Brian Thomson.  Nathan Lightowler on 5th hammer!.

Frame washing, parts removal & grit blasting.

 The 1st half of August saw No 9's frames hot washed (and the washers!) running boards and shafts removed & all 3 wheels sets grit blasted. Next to NDT the wheels and protect with red oxide.The tyres will be removed inhouse at The Shed before being sent to RPSI. The frames will now get grit blasted and protected.

Frame on 2 road ready for washing. 5025 as a backdrop!

Hot washed frames. All 4 Shed doors creosoted by Alan.

RH running board - will be needed as template for new one.

Wayshaft on telehandler with Alan & Nathan.

Wayshaft removed.

Brake shaft stropped for lift.

Brake shaft removed.

Grit blaster being loaded & ready to go.

Nick Thompson all suited & hooded! Cleaning the inside of LH trailing wheelset. Air is pumped into hood.

All 3 wheelsets grit blasted.

Crank axles blasted along with wheels.

 LH side of all 3 sets grit blasted. Passenger set being stabled for night in background.