We've had to replace the 1" Philidas nuts on the locomotive frames as the ones originally fitted were from a defective batch. This task is now complete, in total 617 nuts have been methodically removed, replaced, re-torqued and identified to ensure no nuts were missed. This has been quite a task, especially due to the difficult to reach nuts. In addition, 3/4" Philidas nuts need replacing but this will be carried out when the locomotive is next jacked up to allow access.

We are now working towards fitting the six-ton cylinder block. To create access to the frames where the cylinder block is fitted the smokebox was removed and is stored on the flatbed wagon, then the running boards in this area were also removed. This allowed the frames to be measured and compared with measurements of the cylinder block which didn't show any areas of concern. Templates were made of the frames and offered up to the cylinder block to check the interface areas and mounting holes, this process is still ongoing. We want to carry out as many checks as we can on the interface areas. The design of lubrication ports is ongoing, these need to be made and fitted to the cylinder block before installation.

We are investigating lifting options for the cylinder block as it is unlikely to be straight forward. It will not be the case of just lowering the cylinder block into position as it needs to be a very tight fit and accurately located. We don't want to spend significant amounts of money on days of crane hire so have acquired a 20 ton capacity crane which will be useful for all sorts of lifts, this has 15 ton and 5 ton capacity hoists.  Apart from some cosmetic attention the new crane is ready for installation.