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With just over a month to go to D9524's official outing at the Elsecar Diesel Gala (August 31st), the pressure to complete the outstanding tasks is even greater. Aided by a former RMS Locotec fitter, Andrew has lifted the Rolls-Royce DV8 engine (3.5tons dry weight for anyone interested) to improve the flywheel housing end mounting arrangement. The frame-mounted brackets have been removed and reinforcing gussets added, while the collection of washers, bits of pipe and other "shimming material" that filled the gap between the top of the frame bracket and the underside of the flywheel housing bracket has been replaced with milled plates (machined incidentally by John Dunn of the Derwent Valley railway) which not only fill the gap but put some of the load direct to the frame instead of through bolts in shear. This has now given the confidence to run the engine up towards its full revs, but it would seem that it is still set for 1500rpm (which, given that Barclay's re-geared the Voith to suit 1800rpm may account for some of its reputed lack of performance) but has shown up vibration which may be either worn prop-shaft bearings or issues with the Holset coupling on the engine flywheel. On a 'normal' Class 14 this coupling can only be attended to with the engine out, but the more compact D9524 prime mover leaves room for access.
Back under the cab, the electronics that have superceeded the old Westinghouse standstill detector are fitted, wired in and await a running test. This weekend should see the forward/reverse detectors installed, ending that "I wonder which way we're going to go?" feeling that has occasionally assailed us on test runs. Off the loco, the exhauster has been moved to the workshops and its drive pulley fitted. The mounts have mostly been assembled and it is hoped to have the exhauster into the loco before the weekend, though it will not be belted until pipework and sundries are complete. The duplex check valve was stripped last Sunday as it was prone to blowing straight through if disturbed - one seal had disintegrated and a pair of replacements are on order.
Prior to the August Diesel Gala D9524 will be doing some loaded runs - possibly with the Brake van but probably with some of the coaching stock - to check that all is in order.
And elsewhere?
"James" at the Derwent Valley has been fitted with an alternative set of batteries - these have come off "Claire" but seem to have suffered from old age and enforced standing while at Wirksworth, and a new set will have to be procured. The new horn valves and pipework were tested, but now the horn itself seems to be acting up and will be replaced. A DVLR member thinks he has photos taken at South Yorkshire Chemicals showing that "James" and "Jack" were in maroon livery - Andrew thinks that might suit "James" whose green livery was sprayed in the open 8 years ago and is looking the worse for wear.
The 03 at Scunthorpe (AFRPS) has had the remaining fixings for the change speed gearbox released and the lift off roof panel freed ready for its removal. The gearbox has been sold as it will not be required with the new transmission.
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