Railway Heritage

RN 176 - Weekly activities & Steam Shed Report 7th June 2006

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 176 - Bloemfontein. Brigade Locomotive.

7th June 2006

Thanks to an enthusiast from Germany, Hubert Wetekamp (www.wetekamp.de/), we have received some very interesting information which has made us change the way in which we think. It relates to our Feldbahn locomotive, which in fact is not a Feldbahn as such but was originally a locomotive known as a Brigade locomotive. Whereas we have been keen to add an
appropriate tender to this locomotive which was appropriate in a Feldbahn or farming application, we have learnt through the excellent support of fellow enthusiasts in Germany that our particular locomotive, which is being restored as a First World War locomotive, was in fact used without a
tender.

We will not turn down an offer of a tender if we find one but in the meantime we can press on and complete our restoration in accordance with the information we have received, i.e. a Brigade locomotive is a tank engine which operated without a tender in the trenches during the First World War. Henceforth we will now refer to our locomotive as a Brigade locomotive.

At such time as we acquire a tender we might allow it to go through a conversion to an agricultural locomotive, which is consistent with what would have happened to most of the locos after the First World War.

OUT OF THE SHED AND IN TO THE SUNLIGHT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 35
YEARS....FIRST STEAM TRIALS.BLOEMFONTEIN WORKSHOP

RN 199 - First World War German Imperial Eagle flies again in preservation

RN 193 -Lest we forget, this is what the Feldbahn looked like when it arrived from the UK

RN 192 - Feldbahn locos working in Eastern Europe

RN 176 - Bloemfontein. Brigade (Feldbahn) Locomotive

RN 163 - Our Brigade (Feldbahn) restoration proceeds apace.

RN 148 - The Brigade Loco (Feldbahn) makes more steady progress

RN 132 - The Feldbahn being restored by Sandstone Bloemfontein workshops is proceeding steadily

RN 84 - Work continues on Feldbahn locomotive boiler

RN 72 - Work continues on Feldbahn locomotive

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 172 - Brigade (Feldbahn) - Technical Update

3rd June 2006

RN 179 - Decauville expected to depart for the UK within weeks

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 179 - Decauville expected to depart for the UK within weeks

8th June 2006

RN 181 - Impressive Reefsteamers tour train comes to the Eastern Free State

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 181 - Impressive Reefsteamers tour train comes to the Eastern Free State

All photographs courtesy and © Ralph Montagu

As Sandstone Estates' No. 49 steamed through Vailima on its usual Saturday morning trip to collect bales for the main farm, the Reefsteamers 25Nc and 15F (Dave Rogers tour) came past on the 3.6" and were able to catch a glimpse of Sandstone Estates narrow gauge hard at work. It was a rare
occasion for photographers to see 3.6" and narrow gauge side by side. As the Reefsteamers 25NC and 15F thundered into the distance one could here the echoes of the whistles greeting each other.

The Sandstone team were delighted to meet many old friends who were involved in the organisation of a British tour group that visited the Eastern Free State recently (give dates). Many of the passengers travelled with us on the Avontuur Adventurer trip last year and it was
nice seeing them again. Shaun Ackerman, one of the Reefsteamers loco crew, sent us this e-mail
along with some great photographs. Photgraphs © Ralph Montagu

Click on the images for a better view.

RN 182 - Research work continues with regard to NGG 16, No. 88.

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 182 - Research work continues with regard to NGG 16, No. 88.

The above locomotive manufactured by Cockerill, works number 3268 of 1936, which is now receiving attention in our workshops as part of a complete rebuild programme, is like so many derelict locos devoid of identification plates. David Payling, a great friend of the Sandstone Heritage Trust, has come to the party by doing his own research, and through the assistance of Terry Hutson, we have been able to identify what the maker's plates look like on these locos. This information was previously not available on the Internet and hopefully by putting it on our web site others might benefit from this updated information as to what the maker's plates look like.
Sandstone will soon have working locomotives from all the manufacturers of NGG16 locomotives with No. 88 being added to 113 from Beyer Peacock and 153 from Hunslet Taylor.

Photo by Hannes Paling

Photo by Martin Coombs

Photo by Leith Paxton

RN183 - Steamshed weekly report - 2nd - 9th June 2006 - by Gert Jubileus

26 March 2010

The Sandstone Steam Locomotives

The Sandstone Steam Fleet received some special treatment this week. The Kalahari, 153, 113 and the O&K ‘s piston packing were set and the valve glands were packed. This is a job that demands patients and takes time to get it to perfection, but the most difficult packing to do is on the ejector camshaft packing nuts. The space is so limited and it’s a job not to be done without swearing at the ropes. The Regulator glands and tarot spindles were packed with rope on all the mentioned locomotives.
The NG 15 and NGG 16 number 153 will be used on the photographic trains in next week, and therefore needs all attention to any steam leaks that may spoil the photos.

Left: Tarot spindle packing and on the right the Kalahari’s regulator gland being packed.

Below are some photos of the setting of the piston packing as well as valve glands.

Above- The Kalahari’s valve gland

The O&K valve glands

Above- The O&K’s Piston packing

153’s Piston Packing

The Douglas Locomotive

Derrick secured the cab side plates this week and is busy with the fitting of the lagging inside the cab. Henry fitted the new lagging plates on the outside of the boiler and is busy with the dome cover on this locomotive. The steel plates that we ordered will be delivered early in next week. Derrick will then immediately start with the building of the coalbunker and the rest of the cab. Wood will be used for the footplate of the locomotive. As soon as the coalbunker is finish, the locomotive will be sandblasted and will be spray with spray filler. The paint filler will ensure smooth paintwork on the locomotive. The handrails will be fit to the sides of the cab after it is spray-painted.
Below are photos of this restoration.

THE CLASS 10 CR number 771

She is special, the only one in her class in the world and she deserved a special treat with a new coat of paint. Below are some photos of this beautiful Lady:

Sandstone Wagon Restoration

The Ratanga Wagon

Petrus sanded the planks and Ben fitted it to the Ratanga wagon. The outside of this wagon is complete and the final touches to the steel frames for the seats were done today and will be fitted in next week. Derrick will make the frames of the doors and wood will be fitted into these frames. Petrus sanded the wood that will be used on the window framework of this wagon.

Here are some photos of this restoration.

Here are photos of the first Ratanga wagon inside and the second one on the right.

And the first Ratanga wagon outside!

This Ratanga wagon came to the put for brake adjustment and gave some vacuum problems during the vacuum brake test. Jacob and Petrus then have to take the cylinder of and replaced it with a cylinder that was overhauled for one of our DZ wagons. This Ratanga wagon brake cylinder will be fixed and will then be fitted to the Dz wagon.
Below are photos of Jacob battling to take of the heavy cylinder from the Ratanga wagon.

The two PE coaches also came to the put for brake adjustment and brake block renewal.

Z Wagons
Dz number 1746
The vacuum cylinder was overhauled this week and was fitted back. The braking gears were fitted back with brake blocks and the brakes were adjusted. A new release valve was fitted with new chamber pipes. This wagon was shunted to the line next to the Douglas locomotive and will be sandblast on the same day as the Douglas locomotive. Here are photos of this wagon: Jacob overhauling the vacuum cylinder. This includes the neck ring, nylon bush, roll ring and joint ring.




DZ Wagon number 1405
This DZ came to the put in this week and restoration is in full swing. All the braking gears were removed together with the vacuum cylinder. The braking gears were de-scaled and painted with Red Oxide paint. Some of the doors were taken of and need some heavy panel beating. This is the last Dz to restore on the Sandstone wagon list. The vacuum cylinder was used on the Ratanga and the one on the Ratanga wagon will be fix in next week. Both Dz wagons will be sandblasted at one time and will be spray-painted in original colour. The wagon under frame:

The next wagon for restoration


THE SANDSTONE RAILWAY LINE:
A Rail maintenance plan was worked out to maintain the tracks on the Railway. Oupa started with this maintenance today. The Railway line was split into sections- Hoekfontein Station-Hoekfontein to Grootdraai-Hoekfontein to Mooihoek- Mooihoek to Vailima-Vailima to Vailima Halt and Vailima Halt to Pandora Junction. All the T-bolts and fishplate bolts will be oiled and secured and all the points will be serviced and tumblers and clearance marks will be painted. This is a 180-day project and will include the removing of slacks on the lines, weed spraying in season and screening of ballast at some places. Here is a photo of Oupa, very eager to go around the system in 180 days!


Signs & Decals
New Station Name boards were made of steel this week. Derrick spray painted them and the Station names will be stencil in black.


This Station Name boards will be fitted to two tar poles and I shall love to have them in place for the Rovos Rail visit in next week.
SIGNS:
We made a point of planting at least one sign on a day and in time we shall have a very interesting collection of sign boards, very old ones and new ones to.

Decals
Plates were cut this week and decals were pasted onto them. This signs will be fitted to poles and will be erected at all the level crossings on the farm.


Wooden Fence
Derrick extended the wooden fence up to the Vintage shed this week. He also made an “overhead gantry” with wooden poles that was planted at the entrance points of the Loco Shed. A signboard was cut out of steel and was spray-painted. The wording “ Have a Safe Day” will be stencil on the one side and on the other side it will read “ Thank you for working safely today” Here are some photos of the fence and Overhead:




Station Chairs
Ben repaired all the blue wood Station chairs this week.

SCHOOL VISIT SANDSTON ESTATES
A local school visited the Sandstone Steam Railway today. The Hunslet locomotive was cleaned for this special occasion.

Two hundred and twenty seven little children arrived at the Loco Shed today!

A table was set with cold drinks and sweets to hand out before the train departed on a lifetime experience for these little children. Hester and Anna had their hands full at the table.

Then it was time for Mr. Conductor to see that each one gets a place on the train!


The Train departed from the Loco Shed to Grootdraai and returned to Hoekfontein Station just before five. All the children were singing and waving when they got of the train, an experience they will never forget. Thank you Mr.Mole!

From the Past!

A Class 19D number 3349 performing shunting duties on Theunissen station in 1984.

Planning for next Week

1.) Douglas Locomotive cab and coalbunker 2.) Rail Maintenance Plan A- Hoekfontein Station. 3.) To sandblast 2 DZ wagons and spray paint them 4.) 153 Coal bunker repairs 5.) To shunt B wagon 2968 to the shed for restoration 6.) To do last repairs on locomotives to be used next week 7.) To shunt consists and bring over put for roadworthy inspections and brake adjustment 8.) To touch up paint work in shed 9.) To stencil station names and place in stations 10.) To finish overhead safety sign and put it up. 11.) To clean brass on locomotives 12.) To clean locomotives 13.) To coal locomotives 14.) To prepare locomotives for steaming 15.) To fit Ratanga wagon Steel frames for seats 16.) To finish Ratanga wagon window frames 17.) To clean Vintage tractors and Traction engines 18.) To clean Loco Shed 19.) To clean Coaches 20.) Rail Inspection Thursday morning 21.) To shunt mainlines clear in Hoekfontein Station 22.) To fill all boilers 23.) To plant rail crossing signs boards


*STEAM GREETINGS, FROM THE STEAM TEAM!!!*

RN 184 - Children experience a steam ride for the first time

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 184 - Children experience a steam ride for the first time

14th June 2006

Can you remember the first time you ever set eyes on a steam locomotive? This is exactly what the 230 children from Maleleng Primary School experienced. The children were taken for a walk around the steam shed to view Sandstone's vast collection of steam locos. Once all the children were treated to some refreshments they were taken for a ride down to Grootdraai. One could hear the laughter and shrieks of delight from the children as they pulled out of the steam shed.

RN 185 -Experiencing Steam at Sandstone Estates

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 185 - Experiencing Steam at Sandstone Estates

14th June 2006

Willem Stemmet a 19 year old from the Western Cape (currently studying engineering) spent three weeks at Sandstone. Willem wanted a more "hands on" approach to steam and so spent his time in the Sandstone Steam Workshop.Willem was also part of the steam team that prepared the 15F (Avril) for David Shepherd's trip to South Africa.

After three weeks in the workshop it was off to Lukas Nel in Bloemfontein to learn more about restoration. Says Willem Stemmet " I learnt so much from Sandstone Estates and look forward to my return".

"Avril"

The loco team from left to right: Oupa, Henry Brown, Derrick van Zyk, Hentjie be Bruyn & Gert Jubileus

RN 186 - Rio Turbio Line - Clear Argentina & Chile, May 2006

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 186 - Rio Turbio Line - Clear Argentina & Chile, May 2006

17th June 2006

A momentous, symbolic and historic event took place on the foothills of the southern Andes on 20th May 2006 when for the first time the border post at marker 18 (this used to be marker post number 80 under the old northern hemisphere regulations but changed to 18 as they are nowadays marked from south to north and not vice versa) was officially opened up for the free, legal and official passage of the bi - national rail commission (Arg+Chile) to drive the whole distance from Rio Turbio to Puerto Natales thus marking out the route for the new extension of the Rio Turbio Railway to the Pacific coast in the neighbouring Chilean province of la "Ultima Esperanza" ("The Last Hope" province of Chile, region No. 12).

Stamping of cross border papers was carried out by Argentine Gendarmerìa and Chilean International Police at marker post 18, both of whom escorted the official international commission convoy of vehicles from Rio Turbio to Puerto Natales. This is the first time that the authorities from both countries have worked together in this way and is a sign of things to come as southern Patagonia unites in order to provide mutual benefits for the regional, national and international comunities.

Apart from a simplistic border post station on the new rail link, the road border crossing point, some km's to the south, is to be simplified and united so as to avoid frustrating hold ups to motorists, it is proposed that all will be carried out using a credit card type system instead of time consuming and frustrating paperwork at the existing seperated boder posts of the 2 neighbouring countries which in itself is a hangover from the old military rule days of both countries ............. gladly a thing of the past and never to return!

Best regards and clear road ahead!

Rio Turbio Links:

Welcome Argentina!>>

Ferrocarril Austral Fueguino - The Train at the end of the World >>

PUNTA ARENAS >>

Building a 21st Century Heavy Haul Steam Locomotive >>

All Aboard! Serendipity
When you get on a train, unexpected events can be highlights.
by Karl Zimmermann >>

Rio Turbio and Chile border >>

Rio Turbio Tourist Information >>

RN 187 - Rovos Rail visits Sandstone

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 187 - Rovos Rail visits Sandstone

17th June 2006

Click here to view the Gallery below>>

The familiar green and white colours of the prestigious Rovos Rail “Pride of Africa” tourist train brought life to the Bloemfontein to Bethlehem line on Friday June 16th with a stopover in Ficksburg for a visit to the Sandstone narrow gauge line. Chartered by British tour operators, The Railway Touring Company (RTC), for a predominately steam hauled tour of the northern part of South Africa, the Rovos train was hauled by the Rovos Rail class 25NC no: 3484 from Pretoria as far as Bloemfontein where the loco succumbed to on going problems with its oil burning system.

The tour was planned to arrive on Thursday evening but a switch to diesel haulage meant a late arrival at Ficksburg. A sunset cruise at Sandstone behind the 1895 built Lawley 4-4-0 no: BR7 had to be cancelled but the guests made an early start on Friday to enjoy a morning of narrow gauge steam on the Sandstone system. Although there were few hardened rail enthusiasts on board, the majority of the international tour guests led by Rohan Vos and Andrew Clarke of RTC braved the early morning Free State temperatures to capture some magnificent shots from sunrise to lunchtime.

Class NG15 no: 17 and class NGG16 no: 153 hauled trains which leapfrogged each other between Hoekfontein, Grootdraai and Vailima for a number of photographic opportunities orchestrated by master photographers, Dennis Moore and Dr. David Benn. A full freight was hauled by no: 17 while mixed stock trailed no: 153.

After a sunrise shot at Hoekfontein, the two trains moved through to Grootdraai for some extensive combination pictures of the two trains on the balloon. The Sandstone oxen were inspanned for a number of shots whilst a number of the Sandstone military collection were on hand to add to the experience.

After a break for tea at Hoekfontein and a chance to admire the vintage tractor and vehicle display, the group were joined by some more Rovos guests and photography continued through to Pandora where Chris Wilson added to the period atmosphere with a vintage tractor ploughing as the trains climbed Pandora bank.
Although acclimatised to the luxuries of the Rovos train the tour group soon adapted to the narrow gauge and even travelled for a short distance in the open B bogies hauled by no: 17.

On their return to Hoekfontein the Rovos guests toured the vintage tractor display and locomotive workshop where a number of other locomotives were in steam and on display including the O&K, Little Bess and the Lawley which hauled a short train to Grootdraai to substitute for the missed trip on the Thursday evening.
All the guests were extremely impressed by the Sandstone experience and many expressed a desire to return again.

During the stopover at Ficksburg, the Rovos 25NC had been repaired at Bloemfontein and came through, light engine, to head the 14h30 Rovos Rail departure to Bethlehem. Rohan Vos gave the Sandstone team a guided tour of the train, which comprised a number of new coaches and passenger accommodation options recently introduced to the company. The overall impression is one of opulence and luxury which is what makes Rovos Rail one of the leading rail tourism operators (if not the best) in the world.

After departure the 25NC sadly failed again and the train had to be diesel hauled through to Bethlehem.
The Sandstone connection continues, though, on the tour as Sandstone’s GMAM Garratt no: 4079 “Lyndie Lou”, on loan to Rovos Rail, will haul the train on the final few days of its journey from Waterval Boven through to Pretoria.

Sandstone would like to thank Rovos Rail and The Railway Touring Company for the visit and the invaluable help given to the locomotive department by Shaun and Pat Ackerman and At de Necker with driving duties. Our thanks also go to Jan Fouche and his two sons for assistance with the military vehicle display and to the Sandstone team who made it all possible.

RN 188 - Speckled Bean Article - by Karen Fraser - "Iron & Steam Clad Tradition"

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 188 - Speckled Bean Article - by Karen Fraser - "Iron & Steam Clad Tradition"

19th June 2006

RN 189 - Weekly Steamshed report - 16th - 10th June 2006 - by Gert Jubileus

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 189 - Weekly Steamshed report - 16th - 10th June 2006 - by Gert Jubileus

22nd June 2006


SANDSTONE STEAM RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVE REPORT! NGG 16 number 153: This week the boiler washout plugs were fitted back and she was prepared for a very special visit from Rovos Rail on Friday. Derick also repaired the water leak in the bunker of 153 and it was then painted with a coat of rubberising paint to give protection to the plates. Left: A photo from above looking into the empty coalbunker of 153

CLASS NG 15 number 17: The tarot spindles of the Kalahari were also packed this week. A sharp thin prigger is used to remove the hard old rope packing in the confined space around the spindle. The Kalahari was also prepared for the visit of Rovos Rail. Above right is a photo of the Kalahari’s tarot.
The Kalahari’s lead plugs were also removed. The old lead was fused out and re-used to lead them again. The repairs on the Kalahari’s brick arch were also done. Left: A photo of Derick van Zyl in the Firebox of the Kalahari, removing the lead plugs. Right: Derick fusing out the old lead.

Below: The process of cleaning, tinting and throwing of the lead plugs!

LITTLE BESS This little Miss Bess also was prepared for the Rovos tour group on Friday. Washout plugs were fitted back and her little boiler was filled. The valve glands and piston packing were packed this week. Left: Little Bess valve gland Right: Little Bess Piston packing.

THE DOUGLAS LOCOMOTIVE Henry finished the fitting of lagging plates around the boiler and is busy fixing the dome cover for this locomotive.

THE SANDSTONE STEAM RAILWAY WAGONS THE RATANGA WAGON: Ben fitted the four steel frames for the seats this week. He then started with the window frames of this wagon. Below are photos of this restoration:


WAGONS: All the wagons that were going to be used on the trains on Friday underwent an inspection on the put and all were vacuum brake tested. This wagons includes the following: New brake van, 1146, 922, 2926, 1136, 2834, 2032, 2901, 3197, 180, PE 52, PE 67 and the old brake van. The Hunslet diesel Locomotive was used early in this week to shunt all the consists ready for trains on Thursday and Friday. Below are photos of heavy shunting operation in Hoekfontein Station to shunt the consists into the correct sequence.


THE SANDSTONE RAILWAY LINE: Oupa is making huge progress with the maintenance on the Railway line. He is such a trustworthy employee and is taking his new job very seriously. Within time, this Railway line will be in a perfect condition. He is almost finished with the tracks in Hoekfontein Station and will then proceed to Grootdraai. He is securing and oiling 1080 bolts every day. This includes T-bolts and Fishplate bolts in a distance of 150 metres as well as servicing the points within the distance he works.


SIGNS AND DECALS: A signboard was made for the “overhead” and the words “Have a Safe Day “ was stencilled on it. Below are some photos of the signboard progress this week.



BELOW: A night photo of the signboards!

STATION NAME BOARDS! The Hoekfontein Station name board was stencilled this week and was fitted to poles. This Name board will be planted in the Hoekfontein Station in next week.

The Locomotive Shed floors also received a paint touch-up this week. The put was painted again as well as areas where there was no paint. The paving in front of the shed was painted with white PVA paint. Below: Photos of this paint upgrading!


THE ROVOS TOUR: All the locomotives that were to be used were coaled this week and the pipes were cleaned with Brasso. A rail inspection was done early on Thursday morning to inspect the line and all level crossings. Dave Richardson did the inspection. Below is a photo of Dave and Nikki Garnett on the Wickham Railcar daring a cold winter morning!

While they were away, the locomotives were raising steam down at the shed. We were preparing for an afternoon train ride for the Rovos Rail Tour group. The Rovos train was running late and could not make it for this afternoon train ride to Grootdraai. Left: All cleaned their locomotives while they were raising steam. Right: Derrick filling the lubricator of the Kalahari.

Below left: Driver Pat Ackerman performing locomotive shunting in the Shed area with the Kalahari. Below right: Driver Shaun Ackerman with Little Bess

Below: Driver Pat with the Lawley.

We double head the Lawley and the Kalahari to Grootdraai and back on Thursday afternoon to test the locomotives while they were in steam. Below: A photo of the Lawley and the NG 15 double headed standing at the water column in Hoekfontein Station just before they departed to Grootdraai with a mix train.

Above: Driver Pat leaning out of the Lawley’s cab keeping a good eye on the tracks in front of his train. We stopped in the section and took photos of this rare seen double heading of the Lawley and the Kalahari at the helm of the mix train. Below are some photos to share!

THE MAGIC HOURS OF THE NIGHT: Two o’clock on Friday morning we started to prepare the locomotives for the Rovos Rail tour. The night was very cold and dark, and not long after we lit the fires, the night became magic with Locomotives gleaming in the light with spooky white clouds of steam hanging above the silhouettes of these Giant machines.


The NG 15 and NGG 16 number 153 departed from the shed just before 6 o’clock on Friday morning and was ready to haul their trains at sunrise. Below: A photo of the Kalahari at the break of the new day!

Below: The Kalahari with Driver Pat departs from Hoekfontein to Grootdraai to accompany 153 with photo run pasts.

While these two locomotives performed their daily duties, their little sister locomotives were waiting their turn in the Locomotive shed to act as background for the tour visit to the shed. Below left: Little Bess and the O&K

At 13H00 the tour group headed back to Ficksburg Station where the luxurious Rovos passenger train awaits for departure, pulled by Rovos Rails superb Class 25NC number 3484.

The passenger coaches on this train are Royal class and travelling in them can only be a dream.

After refuelling the oil for the oil burner, the massive class 25Nc hooked up the train and departed for the last part of the steam hauled section to Bethlehem.

From the Past!

Two Class 15F locomotives, number 3026 and 2998 based in Virginia. This photo was taken in August 1990 and a shadow of the end was already hanging over these two giant locomotives, within a month after the photo was taken, they were both withdrawn from service and replaced with two Class 34 Diesel locomotives. These two locomotives were amongst the ones that did not make it and were cut up a month ago.

PLANNING FOR NEXT WEEK
1.) To sandblast two Dz wagons and to spray paint them 2.) To sandblast Douglas locomotive and to spray with paint filler. 3.) To finish all woodwork on the Ratanga wagon and to varnish wood. 4.) To washout the Lawley 5.) To move all loose items from Pandora salvage yard 6.) To stencil all Station name boards and to put them up in the stations 7.) Rail Plan A and start with Plan B ( Hoekfontein – Grootdraai.) 8.) Repairs on locomotives 9.) To clean all locomotives that was used. 10.) To shunt down B wagon for restoration.( 2968) 11.) To re-lead all spare lead plugs 12.) To fit sign boards 13.) To make km posts. 14.) To cut plates for Road decals and fit to poles. 15.) To wash out the O&K and prepare for B.I. 16.) To build Douglas locomotive cab. 17.) To sand wood for Douglas footplate.

*STEAM GREETINGS... FROM THE STEAM TEAM!!!*

RN 190 - Weekly Steamshed Report 0 17th - 23rd June 2006 - By Gert Jubileus

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 190 - Weekly Steamshed Report 0 17th - 23rd June 2006 - By Gert Jubileus

22nd June 2006

The Lawley

The Lawley was shunted out of the shed for washout this week. All the tubes were cleaned and the lead plugs were re-lead and fitted back. Derrick removed the fire bars and did some modifications to the spacing of the fire bars to allow more air to come through the grates as well as to make it easier to clean her fire. This modification will make her to steam more freely. The dampers were removed and new dampers were made out of spark arrestor plates.
The Small ejector spindle-packing nut as well as the ejector steam valve spindle-packing nut was packed with rope.
Below are photos of the work done to the Lawley this week.

Cleaning tubes on the Lawley

Packing of the small ejector spindle-packing nut.

Tinting the Lawley’s lead plugs.

Cutting out new damper plates for the Lawley

Fitting the Lawley’s new dampers.

The Lawley’s grates removed.

The spacing of the grates.

The O&K's tubes being cleaned

THE O&K

The O&K was taken offline this week to prepare her for Boiler Inspection in mid next month. The boiler was washed out and the lead plugs were re-lead this week. The tubes were cleaned and she will now be prepared for internal inspection.

The O&K

Derrick fitting back the lead plugs of the O&K

The Kalahari is also due for Boiler Inspection and will come in for washout in next week as well as the Fowler B5 crane.

The Fowler

The Fowler came to the put this week because of a broken spring hanger. The spring hanger was removed and fixed.

The broken hanger

The locomotive was jacked to take the weight of the springs to replace the rectified spring hanger

The Douglas Locomotive

Huge progress was made with the restoration of the Douglas locomotive this week. The locomotive was sandblasted and painted with undercoat paint.

Below: I now know where the man got his inspiration from writing the song” There is a man on the moon!” – Jacob on the Douglas Locomotive

Henry had to do some panel beating to the dome of this locomotive and sanded the dome. The dome was then spray painted with the same undercoat.

The dome before and after.

Petrus sanded planks for the footplate of the locomotive. These planks will be fitted as soon as Derrick is finished with the rebuild of the Douglas cab.

The steel for the cab arrived on Thursday night and no time was wasted to start with the missing coalbunker on this locomotive. Below and above right are photos of Derrick building the new coalbunker for the Douglas Locomotive.

Wagon Restoration The two Dz wagons numbers 1405 and 1746 were sandblasted this week. Both the wagons were then spray-painted. One of these Dz wagons has a bad cracked axle box and the bogey will be changed with another one in next week. These were the last two Dz wagons to be restored. Below are photos of Jacob sandblasting the DZ wagons.


Two B wagons were shunted out of the storage line this week for restoration. B wagon number 2968 came to the put on Friday morning, all the braking gears and pull rods were removed and bearings were fitted and boxes packed with new axle wool. Both the handbrake wheels were broken and were replaced with spare ones. The vacuum cylinder was taken off and Petrus overhauled the cylinder.



Petrus overhauling the vacuum cylinder	Petrus fitting new bearings to 2968
This B wagon will be sandblasted in next week and then will be spray-painted. The braking gear and Vacuum cylinder will be fitted back and the brakes will then be adjusted. New vacuum chamber and release valve will be fitted. It will be stencilled and ready to be use. The Ratanga Wagon Ben made wooden window frames for this wagon and varnished the outside of this wagon this week. The inside was painted with wood primer. We only need to manufacture new doors for this wagon in next week and to fit the seats to the steel frames inside the wagon. Below are some photos of this restoration.



RAIL MAINTENANCE

Oupa finished the maintenance in Hoekfontein Station this week and has started with maintenance on the section of line between Hoekfontein and Grootdraai. KM Posts Derrick made km posts this week. The km posts will be fitted on one-meter tar poles and will be planted halve a km away from each other. This will make it easier for the drivers to book repairs on the line. Petrus have cut the eighteen poles this week. The posts will be sprayed with white paint and the stencilling will be done in black. Below is a photo of Derrick cutting out the plates for the km posts.

The Station name boards were stencilled this week and the Hoekfontein Station name was planted in the station.

From the Past...

Class 24 number 3635 cleaning fire in Winburg station in May 1988. This was the second last steam hauled train on the Theunissen to Winburg branch.

PLANNING FOR NEXT WEEK: 1.) To finish the restoration of B number 2968 2.) To finish the restoration of the two Dz wagons. 3.) To finish the building of coalbunker and cab of the Douglas locomotive. 4.) To build in floor of Douglas locomotive. 5.) To make new cowcatcher for Douglas locomotive. 6.) To finish rail maintenance on section Hoekfontein to Grootdraai and to start with section Hoekfontein to Mooihoek. 7.) To washout and prepare Kalahari for Boiler Inspection. 8.) To prepare O&K for Internal inspection. 9.) To prepare Fowler B5 for Hydro Inspection. 10.) To shunt out G wagons 3292 and 3210 for restoration. 11.) To start with restoration on 3210 and 3292 12.) To finish km posts and plant new station names. 13.) To move all items from Pandora salvage to Groenspan. 14.) To move semaphore signal from Pandora for restoration.

RN 191 - SA Rail Volume 44 Issue 4 – Editorial by Bryan Brinkman

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 191 - SA Rail Volume 44 Issue 4 – Editorial by Bryan Brinkman

7th June 2006

With 2010 a mere four years away, the 2006 Soccer World Cup in Germany has wet South African appetites at the thought of hosting the second biggest spectacle in the world, after the Olympics.

It promises to be the single biggest opportunity for this country to promote itself to the world as a fantastic holiday destination. There will not be another opportunity like it for the forseeable future. Tourism is currently the second biggest industry in South Africa and an important avenue for foreign income into the coffers of the nation. 2010 is not a showcase for sport - it is the culmination of what SA tourism can offer. For South Africa, it is our one-in-a-lifetime chance.

Reading excerpts from journalists covering the soccer (football) matches in Germany one gains an insight into how the rail passenger services are a major component of the well-oiled transportation system that is helping to keep a million fans and families hopping around the country supporting their team and spending their Euros on everything from German beer to cultural trips to places of interest.
Good for the Germans. But what of us here in South Africa? That is the question. Shosholoza Meyl have just launched their new Premier Classe service (which will be profiled in the next issue of SA Rail). Of course there is the luxurious Blue Train, whose future is often the subject of a variety of rumours. The Department of Transport too, with Metrorail under the banner now, have a tremendous amount of work to be done if they anticipate foreigners used to fast, clean, reliable and safe European train services to consider using commuter trains to get to the respective stadia.

And then there are the tourism opportunities for those seeking solice and the opportunity to explore this great land before or after their home nation has suffered defeat and elimination from the tournament. Start planning your reservations now, because you won’t be able to move during those four weeks.

What of rail tourism?

The rail tourism industry in this country has grown into a multi-million Rand industry. In fact the six members of SARTAG (SA Rail Tourism Action Group) who operate tourist trains contracted from Spoornet through Shosholoza Meyl currently generate R26-million annually into the coffers of the parastatel. That’s not including the revenue brought to suppliers, National Parks, museums, places of interest, hotels, various airways etc. and providing employment. And don’t overlook the impact that these organisations have made to a variety of institutions such as schools and associations through their sponsorship programs and donations.
So could somebody (anybody?) from Spoornet please answer and explain to the general public, our readers, and me, if any thought has been given to the ramifications that the recent announcement that no special trains (under which contract passenger trains fall) will be considered from 2007?

These same train operators have been advised that confirmation of whether their trains, booked up to eighteen months in advance, have been approved to run will only be granted THREE days before the scheduled date. Recently some trips have been cancelled at similar short notice, forcing operators to apologise to angry customers, many of whom had made arrangements including travelling, accommodation etc. and booking leave for these week long family excursions. Take pity of these operators who now have to suffer the financial burden that this short cancellation causes and the loss of reputation within the tourism industry. It is claimed that shortage of locomotives and drivers are the reasons behind some of the cancellations, yet Spoornet continues to send locomotives out of the country on lease. Is providing a service to these countries more important than ensuring that we have capacity within our own?

However the media is starting to get wind of these developments and hopefully can help create enough hype for the decision-makers to become aware of the repercussions that are bound to occur. However - do they care? And what of the Government? Will the desire to increase Tourism as a major means to help create employment force the Tourism Ministry to tackle Spoornet head-on? Will the Ministers of Public Enterprise and Tourism stand their ground and resolve this matter with the Minister of Transport? Or will rail tourism be red-carded before the 2010 kick-off and Spoornet be in danger of not qualifying to participate?

I sincerely hope so, because if not rail tourism will fail - and if so I expect the Ministers to be standing at the platform - to thank the Last Passenger.

RN 192 - Feldbahn locos working in Eastern Europe

26 March 2010

Sandstone Heritage Trust - Rail News

RN 192 - Feldbahn locos working in Eastern Europe

7th June 2006

Related articles at the bottom of the page >>

Charlie Lewis, a well known steam enthusiast and someone who has travelled the world photographing and studying different steam railway operations, commented recently no the Feldbahn restoration. He has also supplied excellent pictures of Feldbahns working in Eastern Europe.