I
though that followers might be interested to read a short insight from
my perspective into the successful start up of D6948 yesterday.
The
loco was fuelled last week and the various filters checked and changed as
required.
The remaining decompressors were fitted to the Power Unit and tighten up. All of the Rocker Gear was inspected to ensure no tools or objects were in the way. The Power Unit was barred around by hand to check for rotation. Paul Good Primed the fuel system and rails to get as much fuel into the system as we could. The Governor link was fully lifted to allow some fuel into the pumps etc.
The loco was shunted outside and coolant topped up as required. Oil pressure was built up with the priming pump and everything checked for leaks and flows. The decompressor screws were opened, auxiliaries isolated and the start button pressed to motor over the Power Unit for rotation checks. All was good and as required so the decompressor screws were tightened and portable fire extinguishers collected and placed beside us.
With the restoration team in place with cameras and videos we were ready for a start up.
Oil pressure was built up, Paul Good gave me the ok and the Start Button was pressed. The Power Unit cranked over for about 15 seconds whilst fuel was pumped into the highest parts of the system. D6948 fired up on the first attempt.
With
the AVR running, Paul and I quickly started our inspections and checks inside
the engine compartment. A6 High Pressure pipe needed tightening up and soon the
power unit was running smoothly on all 12.
A shake of hands and a massive relief from Paul and I.
Exhaust soon settled down and loco running smoothly.
During the afternoon the exhausters and compressors were brought back in and brake created from both cabs.
Loco was powered up in EO from both cabs and control air checked with the master gauge.
Idle and Full Power RPM was checked. Temperatures checked with a reflective thermometer.
We tried for power but that's a job for another day.
A massive team achievement and one that I am personally very proud to have helped with. Thanks to Paul Good for making a great cuppa and taking the time to teach me so much.
A snagging list is on the white board. We are all a step closer to seeing D6948 steaming at the head of a train.
