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ModelWorks Pride of Penrhyn Overtype Steam Lorry
Somewhere to Rest My Feet |
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Whilst I was steaming my POP I could not find a comfortable position for my feet. My modification to the POP superstructure have resulted in an otherwise good driving position. Some time ago I came across a steam wagon, which had a square tube integrated into its chassis into which foot rests could be inserted. I wanted to do the same to my POP and I decided to mount a 1/2" square tube running crosswise just below the boiler in front of the fire box. The first problem was how to fix the tube. I decided to weld two Vs fabricated from 1/2" by 1/16" steel strip and bolt the tips of each V to the chassis above. This can be seen in the following picture which shows the footrest components prior to assembly.
The detachable footrests are fabricated from the same tube with 3/8" solid bar brazed in to one end. This is inserted into the centre section and secured with a bolt through both tube and bar. I welded plates at the end inclined at an angle to provide a comfortable place to rest my feet. The next issue was how to drill fixing holes into my completed, painted and heavy POP. I made a drilling template from a length of angle which I held in place with a tool makers clamp. With the POP upended I used the template to locate the drill sure in the knowledge that the holes would be in the correct place.
I tapped the chassis M5 and fixed the trestle to the chassis using 10mm M5 bolts. I am not convinced that this fixing is sufficiently strong and if it fails I will get some 50mm M5 bolts and fix through the entire chassis rail.
These pictures show, to good effect, the modification I have made to the POP superstructure. I made new side panels that extend to the back of the water tanks. I suspect the originals would need to be removed to enable access whilst steaming, which would leave the pinion gears unguarded and exposed. This modification also results in the backboard being fitted several inches reward which enables access to the hand pump and water fillers without removing the backboard. To keep the rear of the wagon neat I have had to shorten the backboard by a few inches. I have shortened the steering wheel, making a new support taken off the brake bracket. This change has brought the throttle, reverser and steering controls closer which I find to be convenient and natural. When advancing the throttle in reverse I like to rest my hand on the steering wheel to prevent the starting jolt further opening the throttle. It can also be seen that I have not fitted the whistle supplied by ModelWorks and have fitted a traction engine type to the steam chest operated by chain secured near the throttle.
I have yet to test my modifications on the rally field, fingers cross that they workout as intended. |
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