Mechanics Bob DeWachter and Ron Jenkins supervise the removal of 470's Coffin feedwater pump from 470, on Saturday, Dec. 12. This unit weighs about 300 pounds and involved three men to lift and set it on the ground. Earlier this year, it was found the turbine blades of the pump are not only clean, but spin freely. Several other mechanical parts of the locomotive are scheduled for removal in the weeks to come, provided this excellent weather holds out. Considering the season, we are fortunate to have not only the fine temperatures, but a group of workers who are dedicated to the tasks at hand.
470's original, and heavily damaged headlight and shelf bracket have been removed and placed in secure storage, along with her markers and brackets. Replacements for the markers are being sought. A pattern for the tender backup light bezel is presently being turned. This particular part was broken off by vandals almost immediately after the locomotive went on display, so replacing it will make a long time "wrong", right.
The biggest gain at the moment, has been the removal of the lug nuts that have tied the boiler to the frame of 470 for most of her service life. Work crews have had remarkable good fortune if freeing them with application of heat, oil, and muscle power. It's almost like the big Pacific is helping with the work.
Work crew members have consistently involve Ron and Bob, mentioned above, Al Jenkins, Paul van Steenberghe, Bill Alexander, Leverett Fernald, Shawn Melvin, Peter Violette, and yours truly.
A fund has been started to purchase steel and pay for renewal labor of the tender. Engineer Joe Foley, Jr. has diligently been planning both the transfer of 470 from the current location to Washington Jct., and the layout of the shop structure. Donations to the moving fund, the tender and cab rebuilding fund, or the shop and tool funds can be specifically designated by donors. If you have not yet joined NESCO or need to renew your 2016 membership, please review suggested donation levels on our website,
http://www.newenglandsteam.org" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; . You can renew or donate using Paypal, better still, by mailing your membership or gift to: New England Steam Corporation, P.O. Box 302, Winterport, Maine 04496 .
Thank you members, for being a real part of a really productive restoration of New England's largest surviving steam locomotive, and a true treasure of Maine.