Well, it was probably our hottest work session to date. Perfect for torch work, plasma cutting, welding and grinding!

Leverett worked to remove old rivets from some of the coal doors, so that Jim could further clean them up for paint. Jim was at it with the grinder and wire wheel, cleaning up coal pocket doors and draft gear. He also swapped over to weld prep for Bob when needed.

The second large coal pocket access panel was cut out with a plasma cutter to allow riveting. These would make good jump seats for guest coal pushers who can use their feet to kick coal down to the fireman.

Additionally, we made another step closer to being able to put the tender tank in place! Clamp on guide posts were fabricated to assist locating the tank side to side properly as it is set down. We are very close to making this lift happen. The guides still need to be adjusted for the 5 inches of tank overhang needed to center it on the frame. It will not be easy to shift the tank about once it is set, so we want the location spot on the first time.

Finally, Bob cut out a new 1/4” thick buffer plate shim to replace the one in poor condition. The faces of the buffer plate are pictured above. Not to worry, the pitting is of no consequence.

Attending: Leverett Fernald, Bob DeWachter, Jim Armstrong and Al Jenkins paid a visit.