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Coupled Wheel Cannon Axlebox Patterns
24/06/2026
	Today we visited Norton Castings in Sheffield to check the pattern and core box for the Coupled Wheel Cannon Axleboxes. In the photo, the front pattern is the top half; the rear pattern is the bottom half with the projections for the spring buckle pointing upwards. We checked that the features were all present and did spot checks on key dimensions. The pattern was supplied Bridge Patterns from Manchester. These will now go ahead for moulding, casting, followed by fettling, preliminary Non Destructive Testing, heat treatment, proof machining, final NDT with delivery of the first axlebox scheduled for the end of September/early October. The 3 castings will then go for finish machining and welding on of the manganese liners. Not simple things these steam engines!
Bogie Pivot work
17/06/2026
	Work continues on the bogie pivot which is fastened to the bogie pivot stretcher with heavy drive fitted bolts. Mike has fitted the first 4 bolts. Today, Mike started drilling and reaming the remaining 4 bolt holes. 2 were completed today and the remaining 2 should be complete next week.Then we can measure the holes and order the bolts.