Railway Heritage

RN403 - The Final Demise - by Gert Jubileus

Once the pride of many Drivers! Through desert storms, cold frosty winter nights she would haul her freight with courage, singing as thunderous as she could, those lovely roaring beats breaking the silence into many pieces.
Such glorious days that went pass always thought, forever it would last.
A heart of gold, she is forever a servant of man. This must have been the most living machine ever build by man, but man made the machine, but God gave her a soul. She builds the Railways and with pride for fills her daily tasks. She brought joy into our lives and gave us a reason for living just for her.
Then came their final demise. Black August 1988 was sad indeed when most of our well-loved Giant Locomotives were withdrawn from service. A few remained in service till 1990 when after they only survived in Industrial service. How sad was the day, when they took her away. Parked in a Railway dump Yard, left for nature to strip her of her beauty till she became a sad sight indeed. Her soul survived under her rusted lagging and she could think of good old days when she ruled the Railway lines. Memories of all her faithful crews will she never forget.
All over South Africa they survived a cold and lonely life with no one who cared.
How many, many nights I waited for you on the Stations. From a distance I could hear you come, till the star in your headlight appears like a Morning star over the summit. Storming through the Station with no fear. It was great to see you storming pass, to see your beautiful face appearing out of the night. For minutes you brought life to the little Station as you swing your train through to storm up the embankment.
In the far distance you disappear out of the Station into the dark cold raining night. I would await your return just to see you one more time, till the night you never returned. You disappeared into the night together with the special breed of person who lived to work on you and never returned.
Then came her final demise!
Their souls were sold to hungry torches, with no respect for their dying souls. Alone she must die! Forever she will be gone!
Below: Bloemfontein 03 June 2007
Slowly the pieces of her giant body falls to the ground, if only she could run away and hide. With no sound out of her living body she finally gives in when her massive body collapse to the ground. Pieces of our harts are torn apart when we had to say our last goodbye. Nothing can ever bring you back again, forever you are gone. No more nights will I wait, to see you just one more time.
In fear her sister engines await there turn, knowing that this is the last goodbye!
Still you live in my dreams; I see your starry light storming over the summit racing through the Station. I await your return, just to see you one more time but, you never came back, it was only a dream!
In Memory of all the Locomotives gone forever!

RN404 - The Weekly Steam News 2nd - 8th June 2007 - by Gert Jubileus

Steam News from the foot of the frozen Maluti Mountains!
CLASS NGG 16
This very cold week we moved the driver wheels, cab and cowcatchers of this locomotive to a central place where restoration commenced. The first step was to remove all the brass from the units together with the axle boxes and keeps from the driver wheels. Our large Atlas Compressor was used to pull the sandblaster in the Mobile Workshop.Al the spares of this locomotive were placed in such a way that all could be reached by the pipes of the sandblaster. Tarpaulins were used to catch up the grid to use them again. Our new team first removed most of the hard grease with scrapers to ease the use of the sandblaster.
The wheels of the units were moved to the little storage line just in front of the wagon shed and they were sandblasted first. The trick was to spray paint the sandblasted areas immediately after, to prevent them from rusting again.
While our team was busy with the sandblasting of the wheels, Ben stripped off all the brass of the two units and cleaned them. This brass spares will be stored and used later in the restoration process.
Below: The sandblaster in action!
Below: The wheels look like they are brand new again!
Below: The sandblasting of the units. This was very effective with all the wheels and spares removed.
Below: Petrus, always one step ahead of the sandblaster, cleaning out all the rubbish and layers of rust inside the bunker and the tanks.
Below: Sandblasting and spray-painting of the first unit!
Below: Before we sandblasted the second unit, our team cleaned of the all the hard grease accumulated throughout the years. The sandblaster is not very effective when used on these hard grease areas.
Below: The sandblaster made the units to look brand new again!
Below: Almost an out of the box new engine Unit!

THE BSA RAILCAR:
Derrick had to manufacture brand new doorframes for the BSA. This doorframes is looking exactly the same as the original ones, just much more stronger.
The challenge for Derrick was to bend the framework to flow into the body design of the BSA.
With Derricks Boiler making skills he soon mastered the trade and made all three the doorframes. The next step was to fit 1,2mm plates to finish the doors. The thin plate easily took the same bends as the framework with a perfect result.
In next week derrick will finish all the doors and will start with the front and rear bumper together with the mudguards and little running board on both sides. We are going to completely rebuild the missing body parts before a final touch of body putty will be used to do the final touches. The BSA exterior side of the body will then be sprayed with spray filler, and then sanded to perfection before the final 2K paint will be sprayed. Henry Brown will complete the mechanical work of the BSA
FREEZING RAIL NEWS!
Early this week we build three Rail panels to fit on the 3’6” storage line down at the Steam Shed. This 30-meter track will be added onto the existing main storage line to accommodate two locomotives on their way from Randwater. The DZ near the Coal Stage will then be moved to the main storage line and the two panels on which the DZ stood, will be linked onto the main storage line.
Below: 3’6” Storage panels.
We moved all the 60Lb rails in the way of the new storage line to the side of the Coal stage. 56 rails were moved closer to the shed where they can easily be build into 3’6” rail panels.

Below left: Moving 60Lb rails out of the way of the 3’6” storage line.
Below right: The construction of the second rail panel.
A little bid ahead of the project and maybe to eager, we all started with the preparations needed to build the new line into the Vintage shed. The contours of the new line were measured out and the earthmoving work was done.
Both the points and the 2feet rail panels were neatly stacked, sort-by-sort with curves separately.
Below left: Terry did perfect professional earthmoving.
Below right: Ready to lay 2feet rail panels for the new line.
SIGNALS:
This week Ben restored a signal that will be on display in the Hoekfontein Station. The two signals just outside the shed will also be moved from their place of display to be used as a proper display on our Railway line. The two Semaphore signals that were moved to the shed will be sandblasted just after we are finish with the sandblasting of the NGG16 for Ratanga.
STATION STEPS
Henk is busy manufacturing new light weighted steps for the passengers on the Stations/Halts. This steps will be easy to handle and will still do the job. Below is a photo of Henk and the first new step. We have enough steel ordered to manufacture ten of these steps. They are portable and can easily be loaded into any wagon.
THE STEAM SHED:
The shed floors needed a fresh coat of paint and we should finish this early in next week. On Tuesday we had a very cold day and it was raining almost the entire day. This was a perfect opportunity to clean and pack all the tools and spares neat inside the shed. Locomotives were cleaned and everybody kept busy to forget about the cold weather outside.
OUTLOOK FOR NEXT WEEK!
* To build 50 meters 3’6” storage line to accommodate Randwater locomotives.
* To offload Randwater locomotives.
* To move Dz to this main 3’6”storage line.
* To finish BSA doors, bumpers and running boards.
* To manufacture another five Station steps.
* To finish sandblasting of NGG16 engine units and tanks and to assemble them.
* To sandblast rods and spares of the Class NGG 16
* To move the boiler of this NGG 16 for cosmetic restoration
* To go on with the restoration of the third Ratanga wagon.
* Cosmetic upgrade of the Hunslet.
* To washout number 153
* Restoration of flat wagon number 151
* Track maintenance Hoekfontein ( T-bolts)
* To fit signals in Hoekfontein Station.

RN406 - A sad end to some Noble Beasts…

RN407 - Bagnall Update from Zach and the Team

These photos of the final drive in the Bagnall are all just part of a long list of "Snakes and Ladder" repairs on this project - just when you think you are finished with a particular section you discover some small problem hidden away somewhere in the insides of the beast and you have to start all over again!

In this case everything had been assembled and when Zach and his team ran a test, they discovered a slight movement in the "drop box" - which is the green box in the foreground.
Investigation lead to a dismantling of the top section of the final drive to drill out broken studs (missed the first time around and only accessible from inside the box) and rebuilding of the box from that point – the final drive weighs some tons and almost all the parts have to be handled by crane.
Not to worry (some two weeks later) the broken bits were replaced, then they roll the dice and start the game again - fortunately there aren't that many things left in this project that can still go wrong!

Most of the current work is under the skin so there isn't much to see photo wise yet, but I will send you photos when we replace all the outside sheet metal and doors etc. This always looks good on paper.

RN408 - Sandstone restoration picks up the pace

Not content with the locos already on hand for restoration at Sandstone’s Bloemfontein facility, Lukas Nel has now picked up the pace with the simultaneous restoration of no less than five 2ft narrow gauge locomotives!

The three ex Angola 500mm gauge O&K locos have been moved to Bloemfontein together with NGG16 no: 88. They join ex-Illovo Sugar 0-4-2T no: ISE3 for a restoration initiative which should see all 5 completed by early 2008.
Whilst all this activity takes place, ex Lorraine Gold Mine 3’6” gauge 19D no: 2654 is also well into the restoration process.
ISE3 and NGG16 no: 88 will require some masterful work but are a simple exercise compared to the 500mm Angola locos. Politely described as unrestorable scrap by many who have seen the locos, Lukas Nel will have to contend with boilers that are seemingly beyond repair and components “welded” to the frames by about 60 years of extensive corrosion in the Angolan bush.
Nevertheless, nothing fazes the indubitable Mr. Nel and we can look forward to some new locos on the Sandstone line in the not too distant future. Look out for our progress reports on the Sandstone website at www.sandstone-estates.com.

RN409 - Friends of the Rail - The next Trip - June 2007

Friends of the Rail
1. Next trip
Spoornet does not take any chances regarding the Veldfire-risk and at present Friends of the Rail is struggling to get permission to even run the Tshwane Xplorers - trip, which run inside the Pretoria complex. Unfortunately we were not able to save our Fathers Day Tshwane Xplorer, but fortunately we received Spoornet's permission to run a Fountains Train on 24 June (the first weekend of the school holidays).

Unlimited rides on the miniature steam train, free entrance and braaifires provided. Pack your picnic basket with some nice goodies, meat for the braai, enough to drink and join us on the trip to the Fountains Resort in Pretoria. Train departs from the FOTR Capital Park Depot at 10h00 and the return journey will start at 15h00. Adults R100 Children 2-12 years R50.

2. Year-end Functions
We will be running corporate trains from 1 November to 16 December on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Private coaches available from R5000, whole train charters from R20000 and individual packages from R200 (Including train ride and lunch). The Friday trains will run during office hours and will be ideal for an office party. We are filling up quickly and action is needed to avoid disappointment. Please forward this information to the person in charge of your Christmas party arrangements.

3. Fundraiser
Friends of the Rail are there to serve the community. Does your school, church or NGO needs to raise funds? Will you be able to get at least 70 people (one coach) or 350 people (whole train) to join you on one of our trips?

Train fare - scheduled trips:
Tshwane Xplorer: Adult R120 Children 7-12 years R80 Children 2-6 years R50
Cullinan: Adult R120 Children 7-12 years R80 Children 2-6 years R50
Bela Bela (Warmbaths): Adult R165 Children 7-12 years R115 Children 2-6 years R70

Potential Income - 175 Adults 175 Children 7-12 years:
Tshwane Xplorer = 175 x R120 + 175 x R80 = R35000 (R7000 per coach)
Cullinan = 175 x R130 + 175 x R90 = R38500 (R7700 per coach)
Bela Bela = 175 x R165 + 175 x R115 = R49000 (R9800 per coach)

Potential profit:
Tshwane Xplorer = R35000 - Our cost of R20000 = R15000 (Profit per coach - R3000)
Cullinan = R38500 - Our cost of R20000 = R18500 (Profit per coach - R3700)
Bela Bela = R49000 - Our cost of R25000 = R24000 (Profit per coach - R4800)

4. New website
Friends of the Rail have a new website. Please visit it regularly to check changes to our programme. The steam enthusiasts can register to be part of our forum-community. Just type in www.friendsoftherail.com and enjoy it.

Steam greetings from Arno and Billy Victor. Contact details: 012 548 4090 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

RN410 - Our long distance heavy haulage trucks have had a very busy month so far!

These pictures show the three O&K locomotives being delivered to our restoration workshop in Bloemfontein.

These three characters have been waiting patiently for their turn in the restoration line – now the wait is over.
Components for an NGG16, were also being delivered on this particular day.

RN411 - The guys at the Bloemfontein workshops have already got down to business with No. 88

The Bloemfontein team has already stripped the tubes from the NGG16 No. 88 boiler.
The wheels are being stripped off the three O & K locomotives to be cleaned simultaneously.
We will keep you updated!
No. 88 with her boiler tubes stripped
The O&K wheels

RN412 - Weekly Steam Shed Report - Steam News!- by Gert Jubileus - 9th - 16th June 2007

SANDSTONE STEAM LOCOMOTIVES
RATANGA GARRATT LOCOMOTIVE RESTORATION:
This week we made huge progress with the cosmetic upgrading of the Garratt locomotive for Ratanga Junction. All the driving wheel axle boxes were cleaned and all the old axle box wool were removed and replaced with new soaked wool. The boxes then were fitted back onto the driver axles. The next step was to fit the wheels back into the engine unit frames. With our 10ton Forklift, it was no problem. We aligned the wheels and spaced them the required distances from each other and slowly let the unit frame down to allow the boxes to slide in-between horns in the frame. This needs a good eye and proper alignment and to ease the operation, the wedges were loosened and adjusted down to wider the gap between the horns.
After we fitted the three driver wheels into the frame, we secured the horn stays to allow us to lift the complete engine frame again to fit the pony wheels. The same was done with the second engine unit. While we were busy fitting the wheels, Menasse and his team sandblasted the tank and bunker of the units. The tank and the bunker then was spray painted and fitted onto the units. The engine springs were fitted and the motion prepared to be fitted as well. Both the cowcatchers were removed and were taken into the workshop for proper repairs.
Below left: Menasse and team fitting back the cleaned brass boxes.
Below right: The horns were greased before the wheels with boxes were fitted back.
Below: The cleaned driving wheel axle box with keep to accommodate axle box wool.
Below: Our 10ton Forklift in action lifting the frames to fit the wheels back.
Below: Fitting back the wheels.
Below: Once the frame was lowered close enough, we could align the wheels and boxes to fit in-between the horns.
Below: The fitting of the pony wheels.
Below: The sandblasted tank and bunker, ready to be spray-painted.
Below left. The sprayed tanks in the back and our team cleaning the motion and spares.
Below right: Moving the wheels for the second engine unit.
Below: The unit with its wheels, shunted out of the way and the first wheels arrived where we were to fit the second unit frame onto its wheels.
Below: The second units with her wheels in, awaits her tank to be fitted.
Both the tank and the bunker was fitted and then shunted to the front of the shed, ready for the motion to be fitted.
Below left; Ben repaired the first cowcatcher. The second cowcatcher needs the most attention and will be done in next week.
Below right: Arno and Henry fitted back all the motion to the first unit this week. We hope to have the second unit motion fitted back completely in next week. New headlights will be fitted too.
The cowcatchers will be fitted back in next week and both buffer beams will be painted red. The cylinder lagging will be fitted back as well as the motion of the second unit. The boiler and cab will be moved to the shed in next week and will be sandblasted. Old lagging will be removed and new lagging plates will be fitted onto the boiler. We first will fit the cab before sandblasting the boiler part of this locomotive.
Below: Arno and Henry, fitting back the connecting rod.
Below: Almost complete unit in front of the Hoekfontein Shed.
 
THE LOCOMOTIVES FROM RANDWATER BOARD:
We await the arrival of two locomotives from the Randwater Board and had to extend our existing storage line near the Shed. Terry did the earthmoving that was needed while we built the panels to fit.
Below Left: The completed earthmoving. We moved the DZ on the right side away to use the two panels it was standing on. The DZ then was moved onto the main storage line.
Below: The building of the panels to extend the storage line.
Below: The rail panels were moved and fitted to extend the line.
The line was then lifted and packed with ballast.
The DZ was moved from the two panels and this two panels were added onto the main storage line.
We then moved away the locomotive driver wheels behind the North British Tank locomotive and stabled them aside. They will be placed back onto the storage line after we offloaded the locomotives from Johannesburg. The DZ then was moved onto the main storage line and was shunted behind the Tank locomotive.
Our Next mission was to extend this line closer to the 3’6” Peckett locomotives to enable us to lift them onto the rails Both Locomotives were pulled onto the rails and were shunted to the back of the Dz wagon.
Below: A neat line of locomotives all together on one line.
To enable us to offload the locomotives from Johannesburg, we had to make a panel with an incline rail end. We have one that we use with the 2 foot locomotives and this one will come in handy with our 3’6” locomotive offloading.
THE BSA RAILCAR
This week Derrick finished the fitting of plates onto the new doorframes of the BSA. The doors still needs much attention to the finishing touches. Derrick started with the running board and the mudguards on the left side of the BSA.
Below: Illustrations of the newly made doors on the BSA.
Once he is finish with all the steelwork on the BSA, he will start with the professional final touches and finally the spray painting of the BSA.
SIGNALS:
Ben upgraded the paintwork on three signals, all-similar as in the photo below. These signals will be placed on display in the Hoekfontein Station. Our two big Semaphore signals were moved closer and restoration begun. Both will be finished by the end of next week. This two will be fitted at Vailima. Two Home signals for Vailima will come to the shed for restoration once this two are finished.
THE ESCAPE ROUTE TO A NEW SAFE LIFE!
Once she ruled this line, storming up and down. Never did she know that this would one day be her escape route from the jaws of fire that almost killed her soul. Between her dying sister locomotives, she slowly crawled out, rescued almost on the last second. Class 15 F number 3007 was towed by a 34-class diesel locomotive to the Durban harbor on her way back to her place of birth.
Below: A sad end for one of her sister 15F’s in Bloemfontein.
Number 3007 on her escape route. She was captured between Ficksburg and Sekonyela last Friday.
She made a brief stop at Vailima on her way to Bethlehem. I could not miss to capture her beautiful face, shining with happiness. It is hard to believe that they can kill such magnificent machines. I was happy and sad at once, relived that she was saved but also grieved about all the lost ones for ever gone!
OUTLOOK FOR NEXT WEEK

* To fit back motion of second Garratt unit.
* To repair cowcatchers and fit them to units.
* To spray units second coat, paint buffer beams red.
* To move Boiler for cosmetic upgrade
* To strip lagging of boiler and to sandblast and spray boiler and frame.
* To offload Locomotives from Johannesburg.
* To move wagons from Komandonek to the farm.
* BSA restoration.
* To restore two semaphore signals.
* To erect three restored signals in Hoekfontein Station.
* To finish paintwork in shed.
* Arno and Henry in class for Crane training.

RN413 - Narrow Gauge wagons and spare parts can be purchased while still in Natal

Sandstone Heritage Trust have nearly completed the collection of all Narrow Gauge wagons that they purchased on a scrap tender in Natal. These were basically wagons that had been abandoned along the many branch lines in the area, mostly between Port Shepstone and Harding. Once the wagons have been lifted inland to the Free State they become much more expensive to export. We are therefore reminding our readers that wagons and spare parts can be purchased while they are in Natal.
Details of what is available is attached.
PRICE LIST FOR 2FT NARROW GAUGE WAGONS AND BOGIES

Timber wagons
Fully restored timber trucks
Unit comes complete with bogies, bearings, uprights, vacuum pipes and break blocks and painted in red oxide - ready to work.

Unrestored timber trucks
As above in terms of components but unrestored

Unrestored timber wagons less components
Unit is unrestored and does not come with Bearings and break blocks
B-Wagons B5/B6

Fully restored B-Wagons
Unit comes with all sides bearings, break blocks, vacuum Pipes, painted in red oxide – ready to work

Unrestored B-Wagons
As above in terms of components but unrestored

Unrestored B-wagons less components
Unit is unrestored and does not come with Bearings and break blocks

Bogies
Fully restored Bogies
Standard SAR&H 4 wheel bogies fully restored complete
With bearings and break blocks

Unrestored Bogies
As above in terms of components but unrestored

Unrestored Bogies less components
Unit is unrestored and does not come with Bearings and break blocks

Terms and conditions

All items are quoted FOB Durban Port
Delivery is four (4) weeks from date of order for all items
Payment with order

Prices available on request from Mike Myers (E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)

RN415 - Rescued Class 15F Number 3007

Class 15F number 3007 is one of the 11 remaining NBL built Class 15F locomotives to escape the cutters torch. The NBL Preservation Group in the UK was formed in 1990. The aim of these society members is to repatriate North British Steam Locomotives from around the world to the UK where these Giant Machines were “Born”. Long before these last two years, which had devastating effects on Steam locomotives, these people already had a plan to save what they could.
When the THF decided to scrap these locomotives, Lukas Nel stood up and shunted 3007 out of the line of locomotives to be scrapped. He refused to let 3007 go under the cutters torch, and with faith in hand together with his undying love for 3007, he sourced someone to buy this lovely machine. Number 3007 was saved and bought by the NBL Preservation Group. She was not the only good Class 15F and most of the Locomotives in Bloemfontein were in good mechanical and operational condition when they were withdrawn from service in 1988, “Black August” as it is known.
A sad end for many good Locomotives in South Africa.
On Friday the 15th of June 2007, number 3007 began her journey through the Free State on her way to the Durban harbour where she will be loaded and shipped to the UK. She will be home mid July, saved from the Locomotive slaughters.

An update of her journey over the great ocean will soon be available on the NBL Preservation Group website: www.nbloco.net or contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Number 3007 near Ficksburg on her journey through the night to the harbour.
Class 15F on a brief stop at Vailima on Sandstone Estates.
Cab view of 3007, a new outlook on a new lease of life!
Piet Steenkamp (steam Driver) And Andrew pilots the locomotive on her journey. Andrew is one of the Society members of the NBL Preservation Group.
We share in her happiness for her new future and are very delighted that she was rescued almost on the last second. We wish the NBL Preservation Group all success with the bid on another class 19D that they want to save from the torch and value their commitment in saving these locomotives. Words are not enough to tell how grateful I am that she was saved!
Steam Greetings
Gert J

RN416 - General appeal for arrangement, pipe arrangement and spare part drawings

If you are able to help in any way, please contavt Joanna Molyneux-Killik at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

General Arrangment , Pipe Arrangement or Spare part drawings are requested for the following:
1 Avonside 1667/13 (Order No.2410?) 0-4-2T Natal Estates Ltd.
2 Avonside 1759/16 0-4-2T Zululand Sugar Milling
3 Avonside 2018/28 (Order No.7910?) 0-6-0T J.L.Hulett & Sons.
4 Avonside 2019/28 0-6-2T J.L.Hulett & Sons.
5 Avonside 2035/29 (Order No. 8360?) 0-6-0T Crookes Bros, Renishaw Estates.
6a Avonside 2055/31 0-4-4-0 Heisler for Illovo Estates. (2cyl)
6b Avonside 2057/31 0-4-4-0 Heisler for Crookes Bros. (2cyl)
7a Avonside 2058/31 0-4-4-0 Heisler for Reynolds Bros Ltd. (4cyl)
7b Avonside 2059/31 0-4-4-0 Heisler for Natal Estates Ltd. (4cyl)
8 Hunslet 1032/10 0-4-2T St Lucia Sugar Co.
9 Hunslet 1190/15 0-4-2ST St Lucia Sugar Co.
10 Hunslet 2003 & 2004/39 0-4-4-0 Heisler for Illovo Estates. (4cyl)
11 Hunslet 3361/47 0-6-2T Natal Estates Ltd.
12 Hunslet 3871/57 0-6-2T Natal Estates Ltd.
13 Kerr Stuart 764/03 0-4-2T J.L.Hulett & Sons.
Item 6a and 6b may be one and the same drawing, as also 7a and 7b and we only need one of either.
In addition, we would also like to purchase the following drawings for Kerr Stuart 4420/29. This was an experimental vertical multiple cylinder loco for Gledhow for which no GA exists:
Drg No. 33317 Frame Details
Drg No. 33410 Cab Side Windows
Drg No. 33639 GA of Boiler
Drg No. 33842 Smoke Box & Chimney
Drg No. 34131 Boiler top cover & Side Pads
Drg No. 34151 Smokebox Liner Plates & Side Doors

RN417 - A joint operating agreement with The Sandstone Heritage Trust, Hunslet Steam and Hunslet Engine Co.

The Sandstone Heritage Trust of South Africa, renowned for their extensive locomotive, tractor and military vehicle collection, have entered into a joint operating agreement with Hunslet Steam and Hunslet Engine Co. to promote, throughout Europe, their bespoke South African Experiences. These include rail tours and vintage excursions.

The joint venture will also include the exchange of restoration information and jointly manufacturing historic components both in the South Africa and the UK.

Graham Lee of Hunslet Engine co. commented that ‘this is a very important development, Sandstone have a very rare collection of locomotives and tractors some of which are the only survivors of their kind. Sandstone’s huge historic archive of drawings together with that of Hunslet and associated companies will in fact be the largest collection in the world covering in excess of 2 million documents’.

Wilfred Mole, a trustee of the Sandstone Heritage Trust, said that the Decauville locomotive, which is currently being displayed in the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, would be taken to Hunslet Steam at Statfold in August 2007. Although the locomotive has been completely overhauled at the Sandstone’s main overhaul facility, the boiler will require UK certification which will be carried out at Hunslet Steam in time for an extensive programme of visits to UK heritage railways next year. Furthermore Sandstone’s diminutive Kerr Stuart locomotive, the Wren type Little Bess, will join the Decauville for the 2008 Narrow Gauge steaming season in the United Kingdom and possibly beyond.

It is hoped that over time other Statfold locomotives can visit Sandstone and vice versa.

The Weekly Steam News 17th - 24th June 2007 by Gert Jubileus

NEWS FROM KOMMANDONEK SIDING!

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This week we moved the first coach from Kommandonek siding to the Farm. This was the first of eleven wagons that will be moved during the next two weeks. The wagons will be stored on our 3’6” storage lines in Hoekfontein Station. We used our Freightliner Truck, Forklift, tractor with trailer together with our new Crane to assist us with this huge operation.

First of all we had to remove the stop block on the Sandstone siding at Kommandonek Siding. We loosened the fishplates and easily removed the stop block with our ten-ton Forklift.

Below : The stops block being moved aside.

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Below : The Dolly wheel was transported on the trailer and was offloaded and placed close enough and ready to fit.

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We then moved the first coach closer with the help of a tractor and a long sling.

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The Crane was set up and the braking gears were disconnected on the wagon. The new Crane lifted the front side of the wagon with ease and we removed the front bogey of the coach.

Below are photos of the first step to load the coach.

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The Crane picked up the coach very carefully after determining the centre of gravity.

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After we removed the bogey, we had to lift this wagon much higher to enable the Freightliner Truck to reverse in under the coach.

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The coach then was lowered closer to the fifth wheel of the Freightliner. The coach was aligned and lowered again till it fitted onto the plate on the fifth wheel.

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We secured the wagon frame onto the plate on the fifth wheel with strong bolts and nuts. The Freightliner then pulled forward for the lifting of the rear of the coach. The bogey was removed again and the dolly wheel was placed under the wagon. This is the more difficult side to load for it is not easy to align the centre of the dolly because of the steel sleepers standing out.

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The rear of the coach also had to be lifted quite high to fit the dolly in under and this had to be done with care, not to damage the fifth wheel of the Freightliner.

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Below: The battle of alignment begins!

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Both bogeys were loaded onto the trailer, secured and ready to depart to the Farm.

Below right: Leon and his Freightliner ready to depart to the Farm. The moving of wagons by road needs a skilled driver for it is easy to overturn the coach if proper care isn’t taken. It is very top-heavy because of the height. Who ever you are, whatever you do, please don’t try this at home! J

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Below: Leon safely on his way with the first coach. Photo taken near Kommandonek Siding.

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We arrived safe on the Farm Friday late afternoon. This wagon will be offloaded on Monday morning and we shall depart immediately after to load the second wagon. She is now safe and secure from vandalism.

 

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STEAMING NEWS!

THE RATANGA GARRATT LOCOMOTIVE:  

During this week we fitted back the motion on the second unit. The one cowcatcher was repaired and was fitted on the rear unit. The second cowcatcher will take little longer to repair. Henk stripped the second cowcatcher completely and new pipes will be made to fit into the cowcatcher.

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Menasse spray painted the rear unit a third coat of paint and both buffer beams were painted red. The front unit was sprayed to, but the tank on the front unit first needs little attention to the steelwork before we will be able to spray-paint it to perfection.

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The cylinder laggings were cleaned and painted with red oxide paint. The cowcatcher then was painted with red and silver paint. A new vacuum pipe was fitted to the rear unit and the axle box covers were removed and painted yellow.

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We at first thought that yellow sandboxes will look stunning, but after we painted the first one we decided to keep them black. The yellow was standing out to much. Both engine unit cylinder laggings were sprayed black with a yellow lining at both sides.

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Headlights were painted silver and will be fitted onto in next week.

Below : Henk stripped the second cowcatcher completely.

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During the next week we shall fit both headlights and finish the second cowcatcher. The cowcatcher will be fitted and painted in the same livery as the other one. The front unit will be spayed another coat and a new vacuum pipe will be fitted. The boiler will then be moved closer to the shed for a complete sandblast after we assembled the cab of this locomotive.

Below : Greased cranks before fitting back the motion onto the second unit.

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THE BSA RAILCAR:  

Derrick is working fulltime on the BSA Railcar and we would love to see it finish by the end of July this year. The difficult part is to manufacture new plates and to make them streamlined for a perfect end. The left side running board is finished and Derrick puzzled out the frame work to make it fit to the design of the body.

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Below: Welding and grinding, the sparks were flying till the frame and the body of the BSA matched.

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Below: The BSA forming into shape.

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Below: The bumper design! This needed a good Boilermaker Derrick Van Zyl.

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SIGNALS:  

We finished the restoration of two Semaphore Signals during this week. Two Home signals will be moved for restoration and once all four are finished, they will be erected at Vailima Siding.

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CRANE AND RIGGING COURSE:

Henry, Arno and Leon were trained and certified this week to operate both our Cranes. They went through tough week of learning and examinations and all passed with flying colors. Well done to everyone!

Below : A photo taken after all passed their practical examination.

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Below : The instructor and our guys in class!

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FROM THE PAST:  

 

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Class 23 number 3300. This photo was taken in Kroonstad long before the end of steam. Still one of the Museums prestige locomotives, preserved for the future. She was often used on goods trains from Kroonstad to Virginia till late 1990 with her regular driver Tinnie Crause.

OUTLOOK FOR NEXT WEEK
 

·        To move five wagons from Kommandonek.

·        To move Ratanga Boiler for restoration.

·        To repair cowcatcher and fit to front Unit.

·        Ratanga Locomotive restoration.

·        BSA Restoration.

·        To Offload Rand Water Locomotives.

·        To clean all coaches and locomotives.

 

STEAM GREETINGS

FROM THE

STEAM TEAM

The Weekly Steam News 25th June - 1st July 2007 by Gert Jubileus

STEAMING NEWS FROM A FROZEN SANDSTONE ESTATES

Despite frozen weather and heavy snowfalls, we managed to move four wagons from Kommandonek to the Farm storage line in Hoekfontein Station.

Early on Monday morning we offloaded the coach that we moved from Kommandonek to the Farm. The wagon slept in the yard at Hoekfontein over the weekend. We removed some of the rail panels on the 3’6” storage line in Hoekfontein to allow us to have a open level place to reverse the wagon over the storage line.

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After we removed the dolly wheels under the wagon, we rolled in the rear bogey of the wagon and slowly lowered the wagon while aligning the centre pin into the pivot of the bogey as illustrated below.

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We then loosened the bolts keeping the wagon secured on the fifth wheel of our Freightliner and lifted the wagon with our new crane to a appropriate height to enable the Freightliner to drive out underneath the wagon as illustrated below.

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The front bogey was then placed on the rail where the freightliner was standing and was rolled in under the wagon. The wagon was then lowered onto the front bogey. The wagon was then hooked with a sling and pushed onto the rest of the consist behind the Class 10CR

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We immediately moved all our equipment to Kommandonek to load the next wagon. Six goods wagons will be moved on the same way but will be offloaded on the 3’6” Storage line at the Waenhuis.

Two goods wagons were hooked with a sling and moved forward to the loading place at the stop block end of the line with the help of a tractor. The braking gears were uncoupled and removed from under the wagon. The pivot rings were loosened and removed to enable us to separate the wagon from his wheels.

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The wagon was lifted and the front bogey was removed. The Freightliner reversed in under the wagon. The wagon then was lowered unto the fifth wheel and secured with bolts.

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Below: Arno securing bolts on the fifth wheel.

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The dolly wheels were brought closer before we lifted the rear of the wagon. The rear bogey was removed and the Dolly wheels were fitted in under the wagon. The wagon was secured on the dolly wheel frame and we were ready to depart, taking the wagon on her journey to her new home on the Farm.

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Below left: The first goods wagon taking the tar road to the Farm.

Below right: The wagon arrived at her new home next to the Waenhuis.

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Below: The offloading of the wagon with threatening snow clouds hanging low.

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This wagon then was moved all the way down on the storage line.

The next wagon was loaded on the same way but all wagons differ when loading them due to different frames, braking gears and sometimes pipes or side steps that were in the way.

Below : A centre pin with a quarter.

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Below : A photo taken of the dolly underneath the wagon.

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The second wagon on the way to the Farm!

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This wagon was offloaded and moved down on the storage line hooked onto her sister wagon that was offloaded the day before.

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Below: A photo taken from the side.

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We loaded the third wagon and offloaded it on the same storage line. Below are some interesting photos of the loading.

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Below: The third wagon being offloaded!

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Below left: The next two wagons were moved to the loading place with a John Deer Tractor.

Below right: The Guards Van being loaded.

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Below: The Guars van loosing her wheels!

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The Guars van on her way to the storage line next to the Waenhuis!

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The Van arrived on the Farm late Friday afternoon and will be offloaded on Monday morning.

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STEAMING ON SANDSTONE  

This Saturday we had a visit from one of our V.I.P guests, Michael Whitehouse. We steamed the Peckett early on Saturday morning to have great photo opportunities with the early morning sun.

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Below : The Peckett greeting the Semaphore signals with the Maluti Mountains in the backdrop. Quite a place to call heaven!

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Below : The Peckett taking an early morning break in Hoekfontein Station!

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Below: Michael enjoying a hands on, keeping a sharp lookout on the little two foot line rolling in underneath the locomotive as we raced towards Hoekfontein Station!

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Below: Michael and Pat Ackerman posing at the side of a beautiful lady!

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THE BSA RAILCAR:  

Derrick is working fulltime with the construction of the frame work needed on the BSA Railcar. Progress is slow but the end effect will be remarkable.

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We left Derrick home alone at the Steam shed to work on the BSA Railcar. He is currently busy with the left side of the frame work on the car and will finish it soon.

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A light was fitted in the headlight of the Class 10CR in the Station as well as a cab light. Only needs a little steam blowing from underneath to make her look well and alive!

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OUTLOOK FOR NEXT WEEK!
 

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·        To move wagons from Kommandonek.

·        Ratanga wagon restoration.

·        Ratanga locomotive restoration.

·        BSA restoration.

STEAM GREETINGS
THE
STEAM TEAM