Keep K163 Going

Keep K163 Going – August 2022.

Since the last update there has been a period of inactivity awaiting for issues/logistics to be resolved with transport of the locomotive (March – June 2022). K163 was transported from Moorooduc to Newport mid June – video to be released as part of this update. Shortly after arrival back to Moorooduc the locomotive was test steamed and the testing / commissioning process commenced. Good news is all the work completed during 2021/22 looks to be satisfactory with all axlebox bearings, coupling rod bearings and connecting rod bearing rolling cool with no elevated temperature or ‘running- in’ (as it is referred to by some) experienced at all. We have noted an issue with the left cross head during one of the commissioning runs. The cross head has been removed for further investigation and NDT (Non Destructive Tests). We aim to have this resolved very shortly so that K163 can finalise its commissioning runs and return to service on the Mornington Railway ASAP.