I was trying to locate a tool for removing the 539 main bearing cap nuts.
Sweeney tool made a set, #3830-1 that consists of a 'power wrench' (or multiplier), an off set drive and mounting bracket. On the 539's you need this offset because the studs point up in the block and there isn't room to move standard sockets/wrenchs inside the block. As opposed to the 251 where the studs point down.
I have access to the multiplier part, but am in need of this offset. It is Sweeney #383 - 'chain drive & socket'. It is also listed in the Alco Tool catalog as Alco #2472082.
I have contacted Sweeney Tool out of Colorado. FYI, they still make the 251 tools. Unfortunatly, they stated that the 539 stuff is too old to service and could not help me. I also contacted Hatch & Kirk, Relco and NRE to see if they might have had some 539 stuff left in the shops....more dead ends. Seems a long time since any of the larger shops did any real 539 rebuilds. Guess it says something for how well they work and how long the last!
Any how, I'm open for suggestions on where to look for such a tool. I am interested in purchasing one, renting it for this job or borrowing. It would be nice to know where such tools are so they can be at the hands of we last Alco hold outs. Any help would be appreciated.
The BSOR still has 5 539 blocks in servicable condition. There are also several more on our line for parts or potential use.
Thanks in advance! Please contact me if you can offer any help or suggestions.
Pat Connors
CMO Buffalo Southern RR
Sweeney tool made a set, #3830-1 that consists of a 'power wrench' (or multiplier), an off set drive and mounting bracket. On the 539's you need this offset because the studs point up in the block and there isn't room to move standard sockets/wrenchs inside the block. As opposed to the 251 where the studs point down.
I have access to the multiplier part, but am in need of this offset. It is Sweeney #383 - 'chain drive & socket'. It is also listed in the Alco Tool catalog as Alco #2472082.
I have contacted Sweeney Tool out of Colorado. FYI, they still make the 251 tools. Unfortunatly, they stated that the 539 stuff is too old to service and could not help me. I also contacted Hatch & Kirk, Relco and NRE to see if they might have had some 539 stuff left in the shops....more dead ends. Seems a long time since any of the larger shops did any real 539 rebuilds. Guess it says something for how well they work and how long the last!
Any how, I'm open for suggestions on where to look for such a tool. I am interested in purchasing one, renting it for this job or borrowing. It would be nice to know where such tools are so they can be at the hands of we last Alco hold outs. Any help would be appreciated.
The BSOR still has 5 539 blocks in servicable condition. There are also several more on our line for parts or potential use.
Thanks in advance! Please contact me if you can offer any help or suggestions.
Pat Connors
CMO Buffalo Southern RR