As you may have heard, In mid-July, the Como shop crew spent a week reassembling steam locomotive #4, “Klondike Kate”. Several items were addressed including the locomotive brake system, assorted leaks, a functioning electrical system for lighting and repairs to the air pump.
Unfortunately, during the first attempt to test the repairs to the locomotive, the engineer's side crosshead wedge failed allowing the piston to strike the head, damaging the cylinder head. Upon further disassembly it was discovered that there was significant scoring in the cylinder and that it is badly worn. Although a new cylinder head was available by Boreas Pass railroad day the decision was made to address the many ongoing issues that have existed since the locomotive arrived in Como while others require the assistance of skilled craftsmen such as the cylinder repairs and new pistons and rings.
We have determined the best course of action is to bore the cylinders and install new pistons and rings, new head bolts are on hand awaiting installation as is the replacement cylinder head. New cylinder packing rings are also planned. The crew is addressing leaking washout plugs and other issues to make the boiler watertight. A boiler survey has been performed to assure the boiler is safe and to provide documentation enabling us to monitor the condition of the shell and flue sheets.
Other projects under way include redesigning and fabricating a new cylinder cock linkage to replace the inadequate components installed by a former contractor. Installing a damper and control system for combustion air in the ashpan, fabricating missing parts for the sanders, replacing the feedwater piping to eliminate restrictions and increase water delivery and repairs to the tender bolsters, cab appliances and assorted issues. The current list is extensive, but we are confident that our crew is up to the tasks at hand. We are lucky to have the assistance of talented mechanical engineers in addition to local machinists and guidance from industry leaders who are willing to help with the repairs.
To aid the crews working on #4 some additions were made to the facility as well. One of the roundhouse stoves has been reinstalled to provide heat for the crew and additional tools and tool storage have been purchased as well. Plans are under way to equip the roundhouse with a machine shop area for future projects.
Among the Items being reworked are upgrades to the lubrication system to ensure adequate steam oil is delivered to the cylinders. A mechanical lubricator is being installed to supply additional lubrication to the cylinders in addition to the hydrostatic lubricator already in the cab. Larger diameter feed lines are being installed as well
At this time, the boiler survey has been completed and no surprises were found, the boiler jacket and lagging is going back on after the lubricator lines were replaced. Work is being done on the running boards to ready them for reinstallation and new piping is being readied for installation once the jacket is completed. Work is under way on the pistons, rings and running gear components.
All funds raised will be used exclusively on #4 all work by our crew is on a volunteer basis . Currently the estimated cost of boring the cylinders from our contractor is $9000.
The estimated cost of materials to complete the repairs is just over $10, 000
The #4 should be ready to go for the 2022 season. Of course, all this work requires money. If you would like to help support the rebuild work any donation would be greatly appreciated
As always Thank you for supporting the ongoing efforts in Como, Colorado.
