tank venting as the liquid enters. After about 30 to 40 seconds, liquid gas
will emerge from the valve showing that the tank is full. Remove the
canister immediately.
FILLING THE BOILER
A syringe and plastic pipe are supplied for filling of the boiler.
The boiler is filled with water through the filler plug, housed under the
polished brass dome on top of the saddle tank. Care is needed when
removing the dome, especially when the engine is hot, as the dome itself
will be hot. Take care not to drop the it onto the locomotive, as the weight
of it may damage the model. Lift off the dome then remove the filler plug
by unscrewing it. Fill the boiler right to the top with clean water. Distilled
water is recommended if available. As an alternative to distilled water if
this is unavailable, clean tap water can be used in soft water areas. Also,
rain water or water from a dehumidifier can be used provided that it is
adequately filtered Many people now use rain water passed through a
wine or coffee filter to remove any particles or debris in the water. Do not
use deionised water as this type of water may cause long term damage to
the boiler and fittings. There has to be a space above the water to allow
steam to be raised so, insert the end of the plastic pipe into the boiler and
withdraw 30ml of water with the syringe. Replace the filler plug finger
tight then place the dome over it.
Due to the design considerations of this locomotive, the boiler capacity is
such that the water will need topping up midway through a run or as
required.
LUBRICATION
Regular lubrication of all working parts is important and should be carried
out before each operating session. There are two types of lubrication
required: The external moving linkages and bearings are lubricated with a
medium oil such as motor engine oil, and the internal steam mechanisms
such as cylinders, pistons and valves are lubricated with a special steam
oil that is mixed with the steam. Infrequent external lubrication will allow
parts to run dry, and over oiling can form pools around operating parts
that attract dirt and grit. If too thin an oil is used it will evaporate very
quickly as the loco gets hot – leading to dry running. We recommend the
use of a 20/50 or similar multi-grade motor oil for external lubrication.
When carrying out general lubrication, do not forget the regulator spindles
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