Keep K163 Going

Crank pin machining

Today we popped in to INVER Engineering to see the progress with K163’s wheelsets. The driving wheelset was setup in the horizontal borer and machining of the crankpins underway.
As stated in an earlier update, this work is taking place to correct for wear on the crankpin journals. The critical aspect of this job is to keep the crankpins apart by precisely 90 degrees so the bearings run smoothly on both sides of the engine once reassembled. This requirement is met through the setup of the wheelsets and use of the Digital Read Out (DRO) on the machine.

The surface finish on the completed crank pin is excellent, as can be seen in the picture.

The wheelsets should be returned to Newport within the next couple of weeks.

A huge thanks to the skilled team at INVER Engineering who are excellent to deal with and very professional.

Work on the axleboxes and motion gear bearings is progressing in parallel. (An update on these jobs to follow in the next post).

As always any support towards our project would be greatly appreciated. Our railway is currently not running due to the COVID-19 restrictions, thus income is nil which is severely impacting our not for profit organisation.

With the support of the general public through donations, we are hoping to complete K163’s overhaul and have her running again for everyone to enjoy as soon as restrictions are lifted. Remember donations of $500 entitle the donor to be amongst the first to drive K163 when she is back at Mornington!

Until next time, stay safe.