Recent
At a recent work party, the wheel sets were reconnected so the sprocket gearing could be planned. The main parts were put in approximate place so the brackets could be designed and the reservoir size determined. Thanks to the whole team for the progress and Karl Shoen for the photos.


The hydraulic pump is connected to the primary power source, the 7 hp gas engine, using brackets to be built from this mock-up.


The hydraulic motor is connected to the six wheels through chains on sprockets. The motor will be held in place using brackets to be built from this mock-up. A hydraulic disc brake from a 250cc dirt bike has been added to provide an emergency brake.



The engine has been tuned up and the carb rebuilt. There will also be a extended oil drain with a petcock for ease of oil changes .
Background

Our cone-to-flywheel drive system is worn out and was causing us significant resources to maintain it. We have begun a project led by Russ Evans to convert the loco to a hydraulic drive. Details are in the Plan and Report.

Karl with the loco and tender, moved to Rick’s shop in early Jan 2025.
Photos on this page thanks to Karl.