W.W.&F. Discussion Forum

WW&F Railway Museum Discussion => Volunteers => Topic started by: Stephen Lennox on January 01, 2023, 07:34:55 PM

Title: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 01, 2023, 07:34:55 PM
Anticipated work for Tuesday and Wednesday 3-4 January 2023

*  Coach #9 assembly/build
*  Vacuum brakes build
*  Engine House
*  Harsco Tamper repairs
*  General maintenance
*  SS clean up
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 04, 2023, 06:43:44 AM
Anticipated work for Saturday Jan 7:

* Vehicle repair
* Engine house construction
* Fuel tank work
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 04, 2023, 06:51:02 PM
Work completed on Tuesday and Wednesday 3-4 January 2023

Tuesday:
*  Passenger Truck rebuild continues with assembly.  (Jerry, Carlos)
*  Brake beams, new brake beams being manufactured (Randy)
*  Equipment maintenance and repair, 3 Harsco Tamper pistons removed for repairs.
     (Mike F., Jay Barta, Brian W, Steve Lx)
*  Archive work continues  (Linda)
*  Gift shop/mail on going.  (Cindy R)
*  Engine House build, shingling continues.  (Fred, Stewart)
*  SS clean up,  (Stewart)
*  Building repairs, locks being re-keyed.  (Brendan)
*  Coach #9 assembly build continues with interior work.  (Eric, Ron)

Wednesday:
*  SS station piling work prep. Stone cover track for excavator work.  (Brendan)
*  Archive work continues  (Linda)
*  Brake beam work continues  (Randy)
*  Vacuum brake work continues on the brake testing rig.  (Jonathan, Joseph)
*  Coach #9 work continues  (Eric, Ron)
*  Train Ops and training.  (Dan, Scott)
*  Engine House build continues.  (Stewart, Fred)

Notes:
*  Monday work:  Vacuum brakes Jonathan and Joseph set up for cold weather brake test.
                              Archives work on going.  (Linda)
                              Engine House build continued.  (Stewart, Fred)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 04, 2023, 07:33:15 PM
Also on Wednesday the cylinders were dropped off for repair. They were not any lighter unloading..
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jeff Schumaker on January 05, 2023, 09:57:49 AM
Mike,

What needs to be done to the cylinders?

Jeff
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 05, 2023, 10:05:06 AM
2 need to be repacked with new seals to keep the oil in. The third will be getting a new rod and seals because it is too pitted to save.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 05, 2023, 07:51:49 PM
Depending on crew size, I am thinking about cutting brush along the ROW Saturday starting at Brook Crossing and going North.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 06, 2023, 08:24:18 AM
Depending on crew size, I am thinking about cutting brush along the ROW Saturday starting at Brook Crossing and going North.

Hope to join you on that.  We'll see if work allows...
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 07, 2023, 05:41:25 PM
Work done on Saturday Jan 7:

* ROW clean up: A crew of Mike, Bill R, Brian, myself, Scott, and Dave cleared the sides of the right of way from Davis to Sutter's, removing trees and heavy brush with chainsaw and weed whacker.
* Office clean up: This week we got a printer/copier lease, so a chunk of the office got cleaned.  This morning Brendan and I cleaned out more of the office. The closet (and office) is now pretty decluttered.  While it was clean, I moved around files, making way for 2023 files.
* Brendan had the forklift going with some timbers, don't know what they were for.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 07, 2023, 08:33:28 PM
A few photos of the brush cutting effort today.

A couple of inches of snow overnight set the winter scene at Sheepscot.
(https://i.imgur.com/O2KkCX0.jpg)

Our work train at the section house:  No. 52 with WW&F flatcar No. 126.  Tools have been loaded from the section house and the Fred Shed.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZZHHK44.jpg)

The morning focused on the lower portion of Davis grade.  We're looking south, toward Sheepscot.  Brush has been cleared from the east side of the right-of-way, a big improvement.  Work is underway on the west side.  The sapling across the track in the foreground is an example of some of the brush cleared today.
(https://i.imgur.com/xqPLTxq.jpg)

Late morning, James Patten cleans Sutter's crossing.  The Jayne's Way, Brook and Sutter's crossings were cleaned today.
(https://i.imgur.com/z7TWUmK.jpg)

The work after lunch focused on the upper portion of Davis grade.  In this view, No. 52's train is at Brook crossing.  James P. on the left, Scott Higgins at the throttle, and Brian Whitney on the flatcar.
(https://i.imgur.com/8ykxzxh.jpg)

We receive presidential approval of the work done.  Dave joined us after lunch to help complete the work.
(https://i.imgur.com/eBKSaQq.jpg)

Light snowfalls so far made it possible to complete this work today.  ROW brush clearing is miserable work during hot (and buggy) weather, and impossible if there's deep snow.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 07, 2023, 09:02:06 PM
When we got to Davis Grade this morning, I thought that maybe my plan of cutting between Brook and Sutters Crossings might be a little ambitious. But happily we succeeded.

A couple of before shots..

(https://i.postimg.cc/FH8x1tt9/0107230953.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/dtW6Pk4Z/0107230953a.jpg)

The snow covered everything, making gloves good sponges.. And at this point I am saying to myself, wtf was I thinking..

(https://i.postimg.cc/W4Zwk9j0/0107231000.jpg)

Brian and James found some shade from the hot sun..look closely

(https://i.postimg.cc/NfGDz77w/0107231000a.jpg)

Sutters seems so far away...

(https://i.postimg.cc/K8RNZGHq/0107231012.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/RCLGdbtR/0107231012a.jpg)

Cleaned up most of the East side of the curve on the North End of Davis Grade. This will improve visibility to Sutters Crossing. I need to bring my pole saw the next time we work and prune more.

(https://i.postimg.cc/rsjJpKTb/0107231250.jpg)

Looking South at the guys way down by the rail pile.

(https://i.postimg.cc/Dz4BcvQJ/0107231250-HDR.jpg)

Headed south but I am looking north at the cut.

(https://i.postimg.cc/pTNkGwk0/0107231254.jpg)

The President approved todays work effort so he allowed us to quit at 2...

(https://i.postimg.cc/qq4w02Py/0107231347a-HDR.jpg)

One more look North from Brook Crossing. A huge dent in sapling control.. Not sure if I will be able to move Sunday morning but very happy we got this much done..
 
(https://i.postimg.cc/MTy5h9Fz/0107231456-
HDR.jpg)

I will watch the weather closely, and perhaps next weekend we can work between Sheepscot and Brook.

Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jeff Schumaker on January 08, 2023, 10:44:35 AM
Thanks for the photos, guys.

Jeff
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 08, 2023, 05:12:37 PM
Anticipated work for Tuesday and Wednesday 10-11 January 2023

*  Vacuum brake work/testing/design
Coach #9 work continues
*  Passenger car truck rebuild
*  SS freight station work
*  Engine House work

Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ron Ginger on January 09, 2023, 07:28:02 PM
There will not be any coach 9 work this week. Eric and I are off on a road trip. The main event is the Cabin Fever model engineering expo in Lebanon, PA, but since we are going in that direction we have rented a U-Haul truck and will be hauling to Cat tail foundry some patterns for the Engine 11 project, and bringing back some finished castings, among them parts for the vacuum brakes.

Nothing better than a road trip that involves a foundry tour and a show with model engines, boats and trains.

We will be back to coach 9 and starting the paint and varnish prep. Cleaning bay 4 to a level to support the paint and varnish finish we intend to apply is going to be fun.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 09, 2023, 07:30:16 PM
Ron you and Eric have a great time, you guys deserve a fun road trip. I love that show.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 11, 2023, 06:43:03 AM
Anticipated work for Saturday Jan 14:

* Vehicle repair
* Engine house construction
* Station/gift shop/platform work
* Board meeting at 4.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 11, 2023, 03:08:17 PM
I will know better Thursday, but I am in hopes to continue the pruning of the ROW. Check tomorrow night for my decision
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 11, 2023, 07:00:59 PM
Work completed Tuesday and Wednesday 10-11 January 2023

Tuesday:
*  SS freight station:  pile driving begins with support crew.
     (Brendan, Brian W, Steve Lt, Paul R, Leon, Dan, Steve Lx)
*  Passenger Truck rebuild crew works on making brakebeam hangers  (Carlos, Jerry)
*  Brake Beam build, 18 brake beams made  (Randy)
*  Locomotive #11work session.  (Gordon C., Rick, Jason)
*  Archive work continues  (Linda)
*  Engine House work (Fred, Stewart)
*  Gift shop/mail on going.  (Cindy R) 
*  Admin work (Ben)

Wednesday:
*  SS Freight station pile driving continues (Dave Allen Cew, Brendan, Brian W, JB Smith)
*  SS surveying.  (Randy, Brian)
*  Locomotive #11 work session.  (Gordon C, Rick, Jason)
*  Vacuum brake work continues  (Jonathan, Joseph)
*  Archives work  (Linda)
*  Engine house work continues  (Fred, Stewart) 
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Baskerville on January 11, 2023, 07:27:27 PM
I am pleased to see that Joseph is working with Johnathan. Johnathan has a wealth of knowledge and is willing to pass that along. Joseph has the energy and motivation to be a part of our RR community. I foresee a continued good future in young Joseph and for our Museum
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ed Lecuyer on January 12, 2023, 04:32:35 PM
There will not be any coach 9 work this week. Eric and I are off on a road trip. The main event is the Cabin Fever model engineering expo in Lebanon, PA, but since we are going in that direction we have rented a U-Haul truck and will be hauling to Cat tail foundry some patterns for the Engine 11 project, and bringing back some finished castings, among them parts for the vacuum brakes.

As discussed, Eric and Ron went on an adventure to get castings for vacuum brakes, coach 9, and locomotive 11. See photos.

(https://i.postimg.cc/PxNs4Nzk/iron.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/26JpXm2L/iron2.jpg)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 12, 2023, 06:38:49 PM
Looking like Saturday may be a little damp in the morning, but if we have a willing crew, I would like to go out again. This time trimming the few limbs left along the stretch we did last weekend, and cutting either toward Sheepscot from Brook Crossing or continuing north through Cockeye Curve to Maine Locomotive & Machine.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Dave Crow on January 13, 2023, 11:41:44 AM
I can see journal boxes for the J&S passenger car trucks (maybe?), but what are all the other neat castings?
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Graham Buxton on January 13, 2023, 01:01:25 PM
The 1/2 watermelon  castings 8) are for the vacuum brake system planned to be added to passenger cars.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Dave Crow on January 13, 2023, 01:47:21 PM
Thanks, Graham.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Wayne Laepple on January 13, 2023, 06:38:54 PM
We've been referring to the "half watermelons" as salad bowls.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Harold Downey on January 13, 2023, 07:52:19 PM
Journal boxes and other castings are mostly for Loco #11.?
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stewart "Start" Rhine on January 14, 2023, 09:33:04 AM
Alna - as of 9:00am this morning the temp is 30 with sleet and ZR. Many roads in the mid-coast region are coated in black ice with local law and fire reporting a number of accidents. Road crews are responding but Lincoln County EMA suggests that everyone stay home until things get better (hopefully) this afternoon.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jeff Schumaker on January 14, 2023, 09:43:04 AM
What's ZR, Stewart?

Jeff
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Graham Buxton on January 14, 2023, 10:09:18 AM
He is likely referring to "Z/R". Explanation here. . .
https://www.weather.gov/marfc/ZR_Relationships
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stewart "Start" Rhine on January 14, 2023, 01:24:29 PM
What's ZR, Stewart?

Jeff

Hi Jeff, 
ZR is an abbreviation for freezing rain, it's used in weather alerts that are sent to fire personnel when storms are in the forecast.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 14, 2023, 02:20:24 PM
I was planning a trip up to Sheepscot today.  Got up early, checked the current weather and updated forecast for today... and went back to bed.

As Stewart answered, ZR is a meteorologist abbreviation for freezing rain.  Here's the symbol used on wx (weather) maps:
(https://i.imgur.com/Qdkb2RM.png)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 14, 2023, 07:38:06 PM
Work done on Saturday Jan 14:

* Gift shop inventory: thanks to Nicole, Brian, Joseph, Cindy and myself, we got it done (at least I think it's done?).
* Tinkering: I think Mike was tinkering, but I don't know on what/where; and Joseph was tinkering to set up for a vacuum brake test.
* Board workshop and meeting: There was a board workshop at 3 to discuss using all or part of Roberts Rules of Order, and the regular board meeting 4 - 6:30.  We experimented with part of RRO tonight.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 14, 2023, 09:36:01 PM
(https://i.postimg.cc/Zq6bHqkC/0114230742-HDR.jpg)

This is West Alna Road this morning. It was the absolute worst in my travel.. All ice. I wound up putting one tire on the white line and creeping to make it. Every time I tried to touch the throttle my truck would slip sideways..
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 15, 2023, 05:37:39 PM
Anticipated work for Tuesday and Wednesday 17-18 January 2023

*  Passenger Truck rebuild continues
*  Vacuum brakes build/test continues (Mon-Wed)
*  Engine house
*  Freight station
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ed Lecuyer on January 15, 2023, 05:39:31 PM
Anything planned for Monday 1/16?

Looking at the forecast... ick. Never mind.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 16, 2023, 08:17:31 AM
Saturday...we will do more lineside brush cutting. The section north of Maine Locomotive and Machine will be the focus. Plenty to do after this section to get the day in. Plan ahead and come get some fresh air..
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 18, 2023, 05:54:50 PM
Forgot to do this morning - sorry!  Anticipated work for Saturday Jan 21:

* Storm cleanup (snow Thursday night/Friday)
* ROW tree/brush clearing
* Engine house work
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 18, 2023, 06:21:37 PM
Hello folks,

I’m planning on running a plow extra Saturday am, probably around 10:30.  Some help would be appreciated.  I want the extra to wait rather than go out earlier so we get some mid-day sun action. 

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 18, 2023, 06:42:09 PM
Hoping to be there Saturday, if work permits.  Was hoping to help on brush cutting, but wherever needed.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 18, 2023, 07:11:47 PM
Work completed Tuesday and Wednesday 17-18 January 2023

Tuesday:
*  Engine House work, shingling continues.   (Stewart, Fred)
*  Coach #9 work continues, the new castings get unloaded.  (Eric, Ron)
*  Passenger car trucks rebuild continues with forging of hangers being made.  (Jerry. Carlos)
*  Archive work continues  (Linda)
*  Freight Station work continues with pile driving, cribbing and removal of the platform frame
    (Brendan, Chesterfield Associates Crew, Steve Lx, Brian W, Steve Lt, Mike Fox, Randy, Dan)
*  Gift shop/mail on going.  (Cindy R)

Wednesday:
*  Engine House shingling  (Stewart, Fred)
*  Coach #9 work continues  (Eric,Ron)
*  Archives  (Linda)
*  Gift shop/Mail  (Cindy R)
*  Vacuum brakes testing/build  (Jonathan)
*  Big Joe tamper repairs  (Brian W)
*  Harsco tamper switched over to the Woods Track.  (Steve Lx, Brian W)
*  Freight Station work, pile driving continues.  (Brendan, Chesterfield Associates crew)

NOTES:  Big Joe is out of service, do not start the gasoline motor.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 18, 2023, 08:39:19 PM
Tuesday pics..

Pictures are not clear enough to show, but Brian is cutting the joists after they supported the building on blocking.

(https://i.postimg.cc/25thHvkC/0117231324-HDR.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/905T2hwS/0117231328-HDR.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/sXZSbXx7/0117231333-HDR.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/x8vmT4Kd/0117231336-HDR.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/kgXSqwDn/0117231352-HDR.jpg)
Steve Lx is cutting the timber to allow the electrical line to the pump house to stay.

(https://i.postimg.cc/qMrnZpT6/0117231411-HDR.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/4N1cDjfL/0117231424-HDR.jpg)
Beams removed

(https://i.postimg.cc/05DDfbLq/0117231432-HDR.jpg)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 19, 2023, 04:26:36 PM
I got a phone call this morning telling me the dozer sprockets were done. So I told the guy I would get them today (while still on vacation) before the storm tomorrow. I had not been off the phone more than a couple minutes and my cousin called saying the tamper cylinders were ready. I hemmed and hawed about picking them up but figured now it the time. So I finished my puttering project and off I went.. I'll deliver on Saturday

(https://i.postimg.cc/7P57Yzjg/0119231527.jpg)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Wayne Laepple on January 19, 2023, 04:30:53 PM
Plenty of ballast, Mike.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 19, 2023, 04:33:07 PM
Yes, if I need 4 wheel drive with them in the back it would have to be really, really bad
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 19, 2023, 04:57:19 PM
I got a phone call this morning telling me the dozer sprockets were done.

Done by Spacely Sprockets or Cogswell's Cogs?

People of a certain age will understand the question, and I like to help keep moderator Ed busy...

Thanks, Mike.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Brian Whitney on January 19, 2023, 05:02:56 PM
The so called "storm" is only going to be 4"-8". Not a big storm for Maine but big for this non winter we have had so far.
Another larger storm is predicted for Sunday and Monday. It would make sense to me to not run the plow on Saturday and then have to do it again 3 days later? Also a bigger storm is predicted for Thursday!
Maybe we will get a week or two of winter after all.
Brian W.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 19, 2023, 06:04:50 PM
I got a phone call this morning telling me the dozer sprockets were done.

Done by Spacely Sprockets or Cogswell's Cogs?

People of a certain age will understand the question, and I like to help keep moderator Ed busy...

Thanks, Mike.

Thanks for putting the theme song in my head.. Ahh simple times back then. Saturday morning cartoons..
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stewart "Start" Rhine on January 19, 2023, 07:00:02 PM
Work done on Thursday, January 19th -

Engine 9 - Wes and Roger worked on the locomotive for a couple hours in the afternoon.

Archives - Linda worked in the office and received an interesting parcel in the mail.

Campus - Brendan made a dump run with construction debris and then worked on the snow piles, moving them back to make room for snow from the next 2 or 3 storms.

Engine House - East side shingles are now as far as can be applied until the window re-frame is done. Work now goes back to the west wall: more staging was set up so the tar paper could be finished.  When the tar paper was in place, the final trim cleats were added to the front corner post.

Gift Shop/Store - Some large orders for railway books were shipped out. Earlier, Cindy and Linda finished the merchandise inventory, checking stock in the temporary store (the SR&RL combine).
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 19, 2023, 07:43:09 PM
Hi Brian, all,

A very important contention of winter operations is to clean after every storm.  If a storm sits some period of days it settles- even if it’s below freezing- if it then gets covered with another storm it’s packed in and makes clearing everything- crossings, switches and even main line track much more difficult.  The effect is far worse if there is a thaw/ freeze cycle between storms.  We’ve learned from hard experience: keep up and clear every storm. 

Saturdays snow train will take tue time to clear everything well- crossings down to bare planks full width, switches down to ties full width- without any other concerns that day.  I’d only ask for a total of 3-4 people including myself- I’m not trying to impinge upon Mike’s effort- but it’s important to prioritize a thorough clean out of this and every storm.

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 20, 2023, 06:26:46 AM
I can't work by myself so not expecting much brush cutting to get done Saturday. One helper would be good but also can't hold up the snow removal effort. We only have a handfull of normal Saturday volunteers so if anyone wants to join either effort the help will be appreciated.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Brian Whitney on January 20, 2023, 08:36:42 AM
Thanks Jason for explaining the snow removal. It makes sense. Looks like it may be a busy week coming up.
Brian W.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 20, 2023, 04:01:11 PM
In Bath, this snow is like cement.  Tomorrow’s clean out will likely be difficult- 52 will have traction problems, snow will be heavy where it must be shoveled.  This makes this clean out that much more important. 

I’ll get in as soon as I can.  If anyone wishing to help on this crew wants to get going before I get there- the switches in both upper and lower SS yards can be cleared, and the track south of where 52/126 are parked through the entire turntable can be cleared. 

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ed Lecuyer on January 20, 2023, 06:02:02 PM
Also the passenger loading ramp (and path to it) should be shoveled.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 21, 2023, 05:56:57 PM
Work done on Saturday Jan 21:

* Snow cleanup: After a late morning cleaning switches in Sheepscot and working on Jayne's Way Crossing, we had lunch then left for a trip up the line.  It was fairly straightforward.  We were back by 2:30.
* Mike unloaded his truck with the Aussie tamper cylinders and the sprockets for the dozer.  I think the sprockets need a smidge of welding here and there.  He also did some plowing with the dozer.
* Cindy was finishing inventory and packing up for the Springfield show.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 21, 2023, 06:27:36 PM
  I think the sprockets need a smidge of welding here and there.
Yes. We needed to thin the sprockets down and the machining revealed a few porous spots that I just want to fill with weld.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 21, 2023, 10:50:24 PM
Some photos from today, starting in the shop building. 

Fred Morse tending the coal supply for one of the shop's two coal stoves.
(https://i.imgur.com/NLE2TXF.jpg)

A look at progress on one of the Jackson & Sharp passenger trucks, with brake hanger parts for multiple trucks.
(https://i.imgur.com/Avdgivq.jpg)

The view in shop bay 2.  The immediate focus is the front and rear frame components for our future locomotive No. 11.  But the hidden highlight here is the LED lights Brendan Barry has been installing over the center of each bay, above the overhead cranes, improving lighting for the shop crews.
(https://i.imgur.com/3a16lux.jpg)

Now out in Sheepscot lower yard and on the road, clearing snow.  I joined the crew clearing the line to Top of Mountain.  Sheepscot received about 6 inches yesterday.  Fortunately not as wet/heavy as Jason witnessed in Bath.  To start before lunch, switches in the lower Sheepscot yard were cleared, as well as Jayne's Way crossing.  This view shows the three-way switch cleared, while Steve Leet cleans the Tank switch.  Mike Fox had just plowed the roadway to the left.
(https://i.imgur.com/mFivwXa.jpg)

While the lower yard switches were cleared before lunch, Dave Buczkowski was cleaning the turntable, as James Patten cleared the turntable ring rail.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xovc8rH.jpg)

After lunch, Jason led the crew with No. 52 with its plow and flatcar No. 126 loaded with tools out for the trip to ToM and back.  The crew (left-to-right Dave B., Steve L., James Patten and Jason) cleaning the Maine Locomotive & Machine (MLM) Works' crossing.
(https://i.imgur.com/g79xDCo.jpg)

Once cleared, Jason ran 52 through the crossing.
(https://i.imgur.com/1nVBsqV.jpg)

Further north, at Trask's crossing, Steve Leet demonstrated use of the electric hammer he has provided to help clear ice at crossings.  Here he made short the work needed to clear the crossing of compacted snow and ice.
(https://i.imgur.com/1RzBCxp.jpg)

On the return trip south from ToM, we had time to clean the MLM switch and pick up flatcar No. 118, which was brought back to Sheepscot.  Expecting to need to clear the Sheepscot upper yard upon our return, we were very happy to see the switches there had already been cleaned.  Thanks!
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 22, 2023, 07:51:28 AM
The current forecast calls for 10” tonight through tomorrow, and another 5” followed by rain Wednesday into Thursday.  We’ll have to clear after each storm- especially now that they’re on top of an existing snowfall.  Due to Amherst weekend I’m a tad worried about crew availability for a late week clearing effort, however if the line is cleared Tuesday, clearing the 5” in rain on Thursday won’t be too bad.  I can probably do that with one helper.

Thanks for the nice photo record, Bill, and thanks for the ice hammer demo Steve.  I suspect that’ll become critical for the next few storms.

Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Brian Whitney on January 22, 2023, 08:24:54 AM
I can come in on Tuesday but will need to clean up at home first so I'll be a little late. 10:00 at the latest.
Brian W.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 22, 2023, 08:32:59 AM
I can come in Tuesday, unknown time at the moment.

Steve Lx
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 22, 2023, 05:28:43 PM
Anticipated work for Tuesday and Wednesday 24-25 January 2023

*  Winter storm clean up
*  Coach #9 build
*  Passenger car trucks rebuild
*  Vacuum brakes build/test
*  Engine house  (pending)
*  Freight station pile driving (pending)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Benjamin Richards on January 23, 2023, 10:09:31 AM
Assuming the kids are in school, I'll be there Tuesday. I'll plan to shovel around the yard. Probably will not go up the line though.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Brian Whitney on January 23, 2023, 11:29:48 AM
Has anyone tried the snowblower yet this year? I should be able to get it running when I come in. It would be a big help for the path to the loading ramp, etc.
Brian W.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 23, 2023, 02:10:49 PM
Tomorrow morning if everyone available can focus on SS concerns- both track (switches and crossings) and walking paths/ aluminum ramp, etc.  If there’s a functional snow blower this would be very helpful.  Before lunch we’ll wake 52 up and take a swipe through the yard up to Jayne’s Way, to get a feel for the job.  Then let’s plan to eat early lunch and head out on the main right after.

It would be so so looovely if someone cleared the north yard switches while we’re up north.  It’s all a matter of how many folks we have available.

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Dan Malkowski on January 23, 2023, 04:09:00 PM
I will most likely be there around 8am. If you want me to get things warmed up and ready I will be more then happy to do so.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Brian Whitney on January 23, 2023, 06:43:29 PM
As of now I have 14" of new snow and it is still snowing! Clean up tomorrow here may take longer than I expected. I will try to come in at some point but home takes first priority.
Brian W.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 25, 2023, 06:50:48 AM
Anticipated work for Saturday Jan 28:

* Amherst Railway Society show in West Springfield, MA.  The WW&F has a couple of tables, along with a couple hundred of our closest friends.  Come see us.  Runs through Sunday.
* Storm clean up, if any left over from tonight's storm.
* Vehicle repair.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jeff Schumaker on January 25, 2023, 09:45:46 AM
Did any work get done on Tuesday?

Jeff S.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ed Lecuyer on January 25, 2023, 09:59:51 AM
Did any work get done on Tuesday?

Yes. Dan Malkowski posted several videos on his Facebook page of the plowing operations:
https://www.facebook.com/dan.malkowski.14 (https://www.facebook.com/dan.malkowski.14)
(You may need to be "friends" with Dan on Facebook to view them.)

Bryce messaged me the attached "before" photo.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 25, 2023, 11:15:56 AM
Continuing storm clean up operations.

Today I’ll be going out to pre-salt the crossings for tonight’s storm.  I’ll also cover two additional switches.

Tomorrow Dan and I will plow tonight’s storm.  Any and all help will be appreciated- this is an incredible amount of work for just 2 of us.  We probably can’t finish.

Sunday night another 1-2”.

Clean up Monday/ Tuesday.  Test fire 9 Tuesday.

Next Thursday predicted 7.

Major clean up effort next Friday Feb 2.  Please all hand’s available.

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Benjamin Richards on January 25, 2023, 11:19:07 AM
Did any work get done on Tuesday?
Sure did:

- Jerry and Carlos doing truck work (brake beams, I think?)
- Wes and Roger doing...something, a bit later on.
- Plow crew. (Jason, Dan, Bryce, Brian W)
- Myself digging out the turntable pit. Snowblower got a real workout. I broke an auger shear pin and the traction shear pin, both replaced.
- Brendan clearing the parking lot.
- Linda archiving.
- Randy doing...something.
- Contractors installing the heat pump in the restroom building.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Benjamin Richards on January 25, 2023, 11:20:45 AM
Tomorrow Dan and I will plow tonight’s storm.  Any and all help will be appreciated- this is an incredible amount of work for just 2 of us.  We probably can’t finish.

I can probably be there again tomorrow.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jason M Lamontagne on January 26, 2023, 09:35:32 AM
Today’s storm turned to rain early and mostly melted.  Dan and I will run up to clear the rail- but not much worry.  Next week’s prediction has changed- now with only a couple inches over Tuesday/ Wednesday, so all in all things look less intense- at least for now. 

Thanks
Jason
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 26, 2023, 12:25:59 PM
Suppose to freeze up tonight so any slush will turn to ice..
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: James Patten on January 28, 2023, 06:06:02 PM
Work done on Saturday Jan 28:

* Mike was tinkering on vehicles.
* Linda and Nicole were working on archives.
* I gave a tour to some visitors.
* I'll let someone who attended the show report on it, but as of now we made over $4700 there today (known thanks to our Square POS system!).
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Mike Fox on January 28, 2023, 06:42:16 PM
We also checked on the new heating unit in the bathroom.

(https://i.postimg.cc/VLPt8kqF/0128230854.jpg)

I put a new waterpump on Dave Allens dozer after the one that was on it started leaking last week.

Then was able to work on the sprockets of our dozer.

The machining exposed these voids in the casting, and I cleaned them up and welded them.

(https://i.postimg.cc/xTGzTVgV/0128231400a.jpg)

After welding and grinding

(https://i.postimg.cc/Bnq1j7wL/0128231425.jpg)

And slapped some paint on them

(https://i.postimg.cc/y8v3chwf/0128231500.jpg)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Pete "Cosmo" Barrington on January 28, 2023, 09:30:29 PM
[90's POP-CULTURE CALLBACK WARNING!]
Now is time on SPROCKETS ven vee DANCE!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Bill Reidy on January 28, 2023, 09:49:29 PM
* I'll let someone who attended the show report on it, but as of now we made over $4700 there today (known thanks to our Square POS system!).

Show team managers will have better information, but I'm not surprised based on the show attendance I saw today.  If not as strong as pre-pandemic, it was very close.

A couple of photos of our tables in the Narrow Gauge Corner 78 of the Young building.
(https://i.imgur.com/tizj8aw.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/7gL3L6P.jpg)

Our tables are next to our friends at the Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad Museum.  A photo of SR&RL president Sharon Barber talking with Savery Moore today.
(https://i.imgur.com/LI8jfnE.jpg)

And Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum has a nice display in the Better Living Center.
(https://i.imgur.com/eYuPvxZ.jpg)

As noted in this post, Cindy's family and friends are remembering Don Sanger this weekend. (https://forum.wwfry.org/index.php/topic,4333.msg55465.html#msg55465)

And as noted in this post, Maine Locomotive & Machine and Edaville have an outdoor display this weekend.
 (https://forum.wwfry.org/index.php/topic,4387.msg55466.html#msg55466)

Seems like the Maine two-footer community is well represented at West Springfield this weekend.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on January 30, 2023, 08:49:35 AM
Anticipated work for Tuesday and Wednesday 31 January-1 February 2023

Engine house build
Freight Station work
Coach #9 build
Vacuum brakes
Track inspection, clean up
Prep for winter trains (Winter trains start 4 February 11 February)
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Ed Lecuyer on January 30, 2023, 01:34:36 PM
Note: Due to the severe cold predicted for 2/4, public trains (aka "Steam & Sleighs to SeaLyon Farm") are ANNULLED for this date.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Gordon Cook on January 30, 2023, 07:29:56 PM
There will also be a 'Build 11' work session from Tuesday to Thursday, January 31 to February 2.
We will be working on getting ready to assemble the entire front frame which includes the left and right frames, cylinder fixture, and rear frame extension casting. The cylinder fixture substitutes for the cylinder saddle which we won't have for a few more months. We have to prepare the two front frames to fit with the rear frame extension casting, get everything precisely aligned, and start match drilling and reaming holes to permanently bolt the pieces together with custom fitted bolts.
Once the front 'box' is assembled it can be married to the rear frame by the same process of fitting and match drilling and reaming holes for fitted bolts. Alignment of these components is critical to the successful operation of the locomotive.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Jeff Schumaker on January 31, 2023, 10:07:46 AM
Gordon,

Please keep us posted on your progress.

Jeff
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Piwowarski on January 31, 2023, 11:17:18 AM
I want to personally thank each one of you who volunteered your time and energy to help make the WW&F's table at this year's Railroad Hobby Show a success. There were many great conversations with potential visitors and volunteers and a great time was had by all.

Looking forward to next year and bringing some new ideas to fruition that were floated by convention volunteers.
Title: Re: January 2023 Work Reports
Post by: Stephen Lennox on February 01, 2023, 05:53:48 PM
Work completed Tuesday and Wednesday 31 January, 1 February 2023

Tuesday:
*  Freight station canopy prep with carrier beams and cribbing installed
     (Brendan, Steve Lx, Steve Lt, Brian W, Scott, Eric, Randy)
*  Train Ops- snow removal, switches-crossing clean out
     (Jason, Dan, Steve Lx, Brian W, Steve Lt, Scott, Randy)
*  Passenger truck assembly continues  (Jerry, Carlos)
*  SS clean up  (Stewart, Fred)
*  Coach #9 build/assembly  (Eric)
*  Gift shop/mail on going  (Cindy)
*  Archives  (Linda)
*  Locomotive #11 work session  (Gordon C, Jason)

Wednesday:
*  Locomotive #11 work session  (Gordon, Rick, Jason, Noah)
*  Coach #9  build/assembly  (Eric, Ron)
*  Archive’s  (Linda)
*  General maintenance  (Brendan)

Notes:  Stay warm this weekend.