Today there was a work session on the vacuum brakes, primarily consisting of myself, Dom Nesta, Nick Anderson and Chris Belbin with guidance from Jason.
What we did was build a brake pipe connector, using components previously made. Using a previously built brake pipe connector we were able to test which height their brackets should be, relative to the height of the main pipe. On top of this we were able to test orientation, hose length and at which angle the hoses should bend, coming from the top of the pipe. What we found was that with a U bend from the top, and at a slight angle (pivoting along the center of the main pipe) we were able to have the hoses match up nicely, while retaining their abilities to easily disconnect should a train uncouple. On other vacuum systems the hoses come out at 135d, but attempting that angle we found that the hoses we have are too long.
Another part of the project we accomplished was measuring sections of pipe which will be used for Coach 3's vacuum piping. These pipes are 21' long, and using about one and a third of those pipes we got it lined up how we needed for Coach 3, leaving space on both north and south sides for two tees. One tee will be used to lead to the reservoir on each truck. The other will be used for the "conductor's module." The conductor's module will give gauge readouts for reservoir pressure and train pipe pressure per truck, as well as an emergency brake valve. These will all be on the outside of the cars, and mounted high enough as to not interfere with the historic look of our cars without the utmost scrutiny.
We are all planning to get together again for at least one day of the SWW if anyone would like to tag along. Right now the focus is most likely going to be on making the brake hose stands. All in all we will need 13, while it might seem unlucky at first it's due to needing six pairs and one for engine 9's rear tank.
