Drivers &Mechanics
Page 19
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Improved Shut-off Valve.
The sender of the following communication has been awarded the .70s. prize this week.
[1596] " H.B.B." (Bromley) writes :β" I have a considerable amount of trouble with the steam shut-off cocks of the injector on the steamer in my charge. These are, by the way, fitted with Dewrance renewable seats, and they are liable to leak owing to the fact that the surfaces of the valve and seats become pitted. Eventually I decided to remedy the trouble in my own way, and I illustrate by a sketch [which we have had redrawn.βEn.) the standard valve and also the new one which I designed and made myself. "The difficulty with the old one was that it was practically impossible to grind it in owing to the fact that there was nothing to guide it and ensure its remaining central while this operation was being performed. I therefore obtained a stick of phosphorbronze, and turned the new valve with a spigot end which I castellated,
"This has proved to be a considerable improvement on the old one, and as a main shut-off cock is also provided, it is possible occasionally to give the injector valve a turn with a screw-driver, and thus to ensure that the valve and the seat are always making a good contact.
Brake Adjustment.
[1597] " D.P.J." (Dover) writes :β" Before taking up motor driving as a means of earning a living was engaged as a fireman on a locomotive, and while thus occupied I got into the habit of walking round the engine on each occasion when we stopped, running my eye over the various details to make sure that everything was in order. This habit has re mained with me in my new vocation, and it is one that I can recommend to any driver who is anxious to keep his machine in good trim. Care should be taken to keep both the side and foot brakes well up to their work, and in this connection it is preferable to make these adjustments, as the old saying goes, little and often.' " The reason for this is that the movement for the brake shoe is seldom a, really true one ; that is to say, it is seldom arranged so as to ensure even wearing of the surface ; consequently, if the brake is left without adjustment for some three months or so, when this operation is performed only a small percentage of the shoe comes into proper contact with the drum when the brake is applied.
"Further, care should be taken regularly to lubricate all the joints in the brake mechanism. In particular this applies to the compensating gear for the side brakes."
A Quick Repair to steering Chains on a Steam Wagon.
[1598] " H.H.J." (Nantwieh) writes :--" I enclose a sketch [which we have had redrawn.---En.1 showing a device which I contrived a few weeks ago to take the place of a screw coupling on the steering chains, which was worn out.
To make a new one would have entailed several hours work, and the steam wagon could not be spared. I therefore put on my considering cap, and, after a few moments' thought, decided to try the rig which is described hereunder.
Tt consists of two pieces of mild steel plate, each 9 ins. long, 11 in. wide, and in. thick. A number of holes I in. in diameter were drilled at intervals down the length of each. The end holes were used for the chain and shackle, and the two plates bolted together as shown in the sketch.
With the help of a s in. spanner and a small tornnaybar the chains can easily be adjusted. It is quite as handy as a screwed coupling box, and furthermore is a more durable job, as, owing to the continual vibration, the threads of the screwed adjuster quickly become worn.