Sandstone recently successfully bid for a Transnet tender to complete Phase 1 of the restoration of two locomotives at Bloemfontein which are destined for the Museum project there. These are ZASM “B” number 230, “Jan Wintervogel” built in 1898, originally from Waterval Boven and Class 4AR number 1555 of 1913 vintage from the Millsite compound. Phase 1 involves stripping the locomotives and thoroughly cleaning all parts before a protective coat of red oxide paint is applied. Work is progressing on the ZASM “B” with the cab and side tanks removed. The tanks have been cleaned and painted as the picture shows. The frames and boiler section will be attended to next. Number 1555 has been reunited with its tender which has had new bearings fitted together with new axle box covers. Once the work is completed on number 230 the team will start on number 1555 which is a much more extensive and bigger (literally) project.

The boiler section of number 113 has now been returned to Sandstone where new superheater elements will be fitted by Gert Jubileus and his team. The Bloemfontein team under Lukas Nel will now concentrate on completing the restoration of NG10 number 61. The retube of NGG!# number 49 will be held over till later in the year.

The recently retubed number 113 has undergone and passed its hydraulic test with the aid of a pump dating back to 1890. Originally steam driven, the pump saw service in Bloemfontein until the 1970’s when the depot literally ran out of steam and it was converted to air operation and, as our pictures show, is still giving sterling service.

It proves the old adage, “they don’t make ‘em like they used to”!

The boiler of 113 will soon be returned to Hoekfontein to be swapped with the similar boiler of NGG13 number 49 for its retubing.

The boiler of NGG16 number 113 is now also complete and the boiler will now be blanked off to receive its hydraulic test. Our picture shows the completed firebox tube plate.