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Daniel Adamson News
2006
Most recent news
appears first. |
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December 24
New Web Domain & ISP -
www.danieladamson.co.uk
Around three days ago
one of our members alerted the society to the fact that the web site had
become unavailable. Further investigation revealed that it was
impossible to contact our ISP. After making enquires on some web
authoring news groups it became apparent by December 22 that our host
ISP - Web Warehouse - has probably ceased trading.
Fortunately it was
possible to register
www.danieladamson.co.uk
and obtain web space with 1&1 Internet. This is a very reliable
hosting service preferred by many large companies and one which I now
use for the
Irish Sea Shipping
web site.
Obviously this leaves
the society in something of a dilemma. DAPS owns the
www.danieladamson.com domain
name, however, it is not clear yet as to how easy it will be to
retrieve. Given the holidays, realistically, nothing will happen until
January.
Given that the society
holds a large amount of publicity material printed with the ".com"
domain this sudden forced change frustrating and inconvenient.
As
www.danieladamson.co.uk has now been secured this will now be
our principal web URL, however, we will endeavour to retrieve
www.danieladamson.com. However, in the meantime, please could
members spread the word that the site is back on line.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Your web master would
like to take this opportunity of wishing all member, friends and
commercial supporters a very Merry Christmas and an Happy and Prosperous
New Year.
John H.
Luxton |
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December 16
Christmas Wishes &
Working Parties
A very brief update this week as the
Christmas Holiday approaches and we wind down for a well earned
break. Tuesday 19th December will be the
last organised working party before the holiday, after which we will
be resuming again on Tuesday 9th January
with another working party on Thursday 11th.
For the moment our next Saturday
Working Party will be held on 20th January 2007,
with the usual alternate Saturday routine thereafter, so for
February the dates for your diary will be 3rd
and 17th Feb. I say 'for the moment' as
much will depend on some ongoing matters which may require attention
at short notice, suffice to say, as ever we'll have to be prepared
to alter dates to suit should the need arise, but I will endeavour
to notify volunteers in good time if this is the case.
While there will be no working
parties over the holiday, arrangements to visit the vessel for
security purposes are in hand and those responsible have been
already identified.
As we approach a New Year, I am
delighted to report that we have now amassed an impressive 18,300
hours of 'volunteer hours' with still another three months or so
before our third anniversary!
I think few would argue that this
represents quite a staggering total and considering the extremes of
weather endured along the way, gives the clearest evidence of the
high level of commitment displayed by our volunteers. It is
also reflected in the rate of progress we have made, which by any
standards, is in my opinion impressive. If in doubt, please take a
little time to scan through the back pages of this site and I think
you'll see what I mean.
While I'm 'blowing our trumpet' as
far as 'Working Parties' are concerned, I should point out that the
major portion of our thanks should go to John Deakin our Chief
Engineer and Working Party Coordinator, who has the unenviable task
of keeping everyone busy, with a multitude of jobs, large and small,
skilled and unskilled so that rarely if ever, anyone is stuck for
'something to do.' It's all about maintaining the impetus, while at
the same time encouraging people to undertake some pretty unpleasant
or protracted task, for example those condensers!! (Did I mention
them at all??) So far over 950 hours has been spent on the condenser
overhaul, no doubt with a lot more to go, although we believe we
have 'turned the corner' now and are heading for the homeward
straight! The saving this represents is phenomenal against what such
a major refurbishment might cost if put out to contract. This may
prove even more valuable later as we seek to keep bids for funding
within budget parameters.
So thank you John and thanks to all
our volunteers for the great job they do, both on board and behind
the scenes too!
Our 'Guest Book' has now been updated
and as you will see, we have one suggestion regarding the 'Barton
Lock Gauge' from Mr Joe Blythe which does indeed sound like a
plausible explanation, obviously if anyone else has an idea we'd
like to hear from you.
It's also nice to see that Daniel
Adamson (or at least another one!) is alive and well and living in
Australia! Good to hear from you Dan!
Regarding the 'Guest Book' we
hopefully seem to have trapped most of the 'spam' and sundry rubbish
this type of facility can attract, but we do display all genuine
comments and ask that you add a line, good or bad if you so wish, we
only ask that you keep it clean and generally relevant, thanks.
Finally,
as might be expected as the holiday draws near, conversations aboard
today turned toward plans for the celebration, so that I must
publicly apologise to Volunteer Wally Graham for my initial
misinterpretation of his response to my question, 'What will you
be doing over Christmas?' What Wally actually
said was 'i'll probably go on the
PISTE as usual!!
By way of illustration there
follows a photo of Walter in his Winter Sports attire, complete with
'Snow Board' (Ever resourceful, Wally also uses this to slide around
underneath Heavy Goods Vehicles which he repairs when not working on
the 'Danny' or 'Snowboarding' in the Alps!!)
So there it is, Christmas will soon
be upon us, so on behalf of 'DAPS' may I wish you all a Very Happy
Christmas and a Healthy, Happy and Peaceful New Year!!
Very Best Wishes,
Neil Marsden
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December 09
NUNQUAM REDONO
Apologies to those Latin Scholars
amongst you if the grammar of this week's heading is inaccurate. I
was looking for a suitable title to describe the level of
determination displayed by our volunteers in so many tasks which
they undertake. Knowing what I had in mind, it occurred to me that a
Latin version, albeit a literal translation from an Internet site
seemed more fitting and could well be a suitable 'motto' for the
society, so there it is 'nunquam redono' or simply 'Never
Give Up!'
The 'motto' is particularly relevant
to the efforts to free the main engine pistons, or rather the bottom
portion of these substantial items. In the last 'update' I described
how, after considerable effort the first of the HP pistons was
released and how 'we would return' to complete the task. This
particular task has been led from start to finish by Peter Irlam,
assisted by a number of volunteers over an extended period. On
Tuesday this week the work was carried out predominantly by 'a pair
of Pete's namely Irlam and Murray, together with others as
required. Almost immediately the port HP piston was released after a
short struggle, clearly the efforts of the previous week had set
things in motion and this one soon succumbed to the application of
the strong-back. They then turned their attention to the LP (port)
the doubled strong-back was fitted and heat carefully applied to the
periphery of the piston. The nuts were tightened on the strong-back,
tightened some more and then more still!
As will be seen, the piston didn't
budge a fraction, the strong-back again was bent severely and I
confess even after witnessing that the HP pistons had been held in
place by the taper of the rod, I was convinced the LP was threaded
to the rod!!
I don't think I did sew any seeds of
doubt in Peter's mind, so that he rather tactfully told me it was
definitely just a taper and some rust which was the problem, the
same as the HP pistons. I decided it was a good time to go and check
how the others were getting on with other tasks and return later!
When I came back, I noticed that quite a few folk had gathered
around the LP end of the engine where the warmth and the
anticipation of the piston coming off were growing with equal
measure! We stood there for several minutes, Pete Murray
occasionally coaxing another turn to the strong-back nuts, nothing
happened, but it was warm at least. With hot tea on offer we
abandoned the vigil to allow 'nature to take its course' only to
find that nature hadn't bothered when we came back!! Towards lunch
time the port engine was declared 'the winner' (for the day) and
'The Peters' prepared to do battle with the starboard engine when
suitably refreshed. So it was that around 3pm a distinct 'clunk'
and a noticeable shudder announced the parting of the starboard LP
piston from it's rod! There was a loud cheer and as the light began
to fade I sneakily confirmed (to myself) that indeed a modest taper
and a spot of rust had been responsible for all that effort.
Not surprisingly Peter (Irlam) was
back for 'Round 2' on the port engine today (Thursday) now
accompanied by Graham Dean and Gordon Weston. The heat was soon
being applied, so I grabbed my camera and took a couple of shots. I
then moved away to attend other matters, when only minutes later the
loud 'clunk/shudder' effect announced that the port LP had also
succumbed to 'Persistent Pete' and the team. Photographs give little
impression of the actual event, the movement being barely
perceptible, so I waited until the pistons were actually drawn off
the rods and raised above the cylinders by way of proof before
capturing the event.
As always, on reading these notes as
I write them, the impression comes across of 'what's all the fuss
about?' Then I think, well actually it is quite an achievement, it
is impressive that it has been achieved with basic tools, a little
science, and a lot of effort. It was done without causing any damage
or hurting anyone in the process, in the same way every task is
carried out on the project.
So the 'motto' does seem appropriate,
you get there in the end as long as you 'Never Give Up' -
'Nunquam Redono'
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(Port LP) piston, showing strongback
with distinct resemblance to a banana ( a 2" thick, steel one, that
is!)
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Heating the piston |
Success! Pete Irlam (L) and Graham Dean
looking suitably satisfied with themselves!
Right - Port and starboard pistons clear of
the cylinders
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SHIPS MONTHLY
VISIT
Last Tuesday amidst the efforts to
release the pistons, we received a visit arranged by Member John
Huxley, from a group of shipping enthusiasts as part of a tour
organised by 'Ships Monthly' magazine. The group were taking part on
one of the magazine's regular 'Ferry Tours' and had expressed an
interest in visiting the 'Daniel Adamson'
The group comprised some twenty seven
in number including the magazine's editor Iain Wakefield and regular
contributor Russell Plummer, time was a little limited as the group
were scheduled to travel that night as part of their tour aboard one
of the Norfolk Line (Norse Merchant) ferries, before returning to
the UK aboard Irish Ferries giant, 'Ulysses'
Unfortunately the weather on the day
was rather dismal but the group were able to get a close look around
the 'DA' and to take numerous photographs of the work in progress.
I think it fair to say that all enjoyed the all too brief visit and
particularly a much needed hot mug of tea to ward off the cold. We
look forward to a further visit from Iain Wakefield who plans to
return in the not too distant future for an article he proposes
about the 'DA' for an issue of the magazine.
The visitors kindly purchased a
number of items of merchandise and donated a most welcome cheque
towards the project which was presented to John Deakin by Russell
Plummer. I doubt that anyone left without at least one leaflet, so
we hope that we can welcome back some of our visitors as 'DAPS'
Members in the near future!
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Members and visitors mingle on the promenade deck while enjoying a much
needed hot drink! |
Russell Plummer ('Ships Monthly')
presents Chief Engineer, John Deakin with a very welcome donation to
the project funds.
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Some of the volunteers in attendance and
yes that is 'Old Glory' Pete Murray is reading, unfortunately we
didn't have a copy of 'Ships Monthly' aboard that day of all days!!
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Just to prove I don't just take photos and updates for the web-site,
Colin Brogan actually caught me 'in action' so to speak, here assisting
with the lifting of those *@*@*@ pistons!! |
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December
02 Heavy
Engineering?
By way of a change from the ongoing
saga of the condensers, I thought a word or two regarding other
ongoing work seemed timely.
Last Thursday we set about the
Herculean task of moving the boiler feed pump ready for stripping
and overhaul. At present both circulating pumps are already ashore
and well on the way to restoration, the steering engine was removed
some time ago and will be receiving attention in the not too distant
future (mostly cosmetic as it has already been successfully tested
on air by the apprentices at TTE) and the Lamont General Service
pump is already stripped and in the process of restoration.
The feed pump is rather a large piece
of machinery and a replacement for the original 'Weir' type which
was damaged many years ago when the 'DA' was in service. This
'duplex' type pump, was manufactured by the firm of Dawson Downie,
of Clydebank, Scotland and dates to the early 1930's. As such it is
the only none 'original' pump aboard the vessel. There is little
doubt that it is substantially larger than the original pump it
replaced, having been 'shoe-horned' into the available space to the
port side of the boiler and boasting some interesting pipe-work as a
consequence!! It would seem the 'plumbing' was carried out once the
pump had been set in place, as extricating it from it's location was
not easy! It is one of two pumps located in the boiler room, the
other mounted to the starboard side and designated as the 'GS' or
General Service pump is of 'Lamont' manufacture and there lies a
coincidence. In 1985 (about the time the 'Daniel Adamson' entered
'retirement') Dawson Downie was the oldest surviving Clydebank firm,
having been manufacturing pumps at their North Elgin Street factory
since 1905. In that year they merged with the firm of Thomas Lamont,
to form a new company Dawson, Downie, Lamont and I am delighted to
report that the company survive to the present day, now based in
Glenrothes, Fife and they still manufacture pumps, including models
little changed from ours! (See
www.ddl-ltd.com)
The firm have already provided much valuable advice and assistance
and I hope to report more fully on this in due course.
In the meantime, having released all
connections and holding down bolts, two chain blocks were set in
place and an assortment of strops were carefully attached to the
pump so that it could be first lifted from it's seating and then
re-positioned horizontally to allow the vertical lift to the
stokehold door. While it takes few words to describe the process the
actual business of doing it safely, took the best part of the day
and the co-ordinated efforts of most of the volunteers present.
That said, I can honestly say not a single bad word was uttered and
we achieved all we set out to do, much to the relief of all
concerned!
Just a few photos of the 'action' by
courtesy of Colin Brogan. Colin did take several more photos, but I
think the following set the scene.
 The
pump is initially lifted from it's bed to the stokehold floor.
(left)
The pump is laid on it side,
carefully avoiding any damage to studs etc. The lifting strops are
adjusted for the 'big lift' (right).
'The pump has landed' The main lift
complete, the pump is positioned in readiness for the next move, out
of the boiler room.
I cannot recall an occasion when I
have reported ' the machine was easily and rapidly stripped down
to it's component parts' and the main engine pistons are no
exception. You may recall
we showed how it took the combined application of heat, an air
hammer and a very substantial socket set just to release the piston
securing nuts, a task taking the best part of a full day. So then it
will come as no surprise that the task of actually removing the
pistons themselves is even more daunting.
Actually the pistons comprise a
number of separate components, a top and bottom half and the rings
themselves, secured in between. The piston tops came away
reasonably easily (once those nuts were off!!) along with the rings,
springs and so on which just left the bottom halves! The basic idea
is to secure a 'strongback' across the top of the piston rod and
secure it to bolts set into the piston itself. The piston sits on a
tapered section of the rod and in theory, by tightening nuts
attached to the bolts, the strongback 'pops' the piston off the
rod! Simplicity itself one might think, but this is the 'Daniel
Adamson' !! We know that the rods and pistons move freely in the
cylinders, we have drawings showing the taper, what we don't have is
movement!! Our first strong-back wasn't strong enough! It buckled.
Back to the drawing board, new strongbacks were manufactured thanks
to TTE and as will be seen, these are fairly substantial and believe
me heavy enough to suggest more than ample to the task!
Look closely at the side view in
photo 5, we're now using both strongbacks to support each other, yet
we've managed to bend the longer one! Oh and before you say it,
that's AFTER we heated the piston to give us a fighting chance!! The
amazing thing is that we'd done exactly the same with the HP piston
a week or two previously and that too had not budged, then
abandoning the LP we returned to it and this time off it popped with
ease! We hadn't the heart for another go at the LP on Tuesday, but
we shall return, let's hope our 'patience' will be rewarded!!
The strong-back is set in place. (left)
Another
strong-back, lots of heat to the piston (avoiding the rod) much
tightening of nuts and even slipper wedges, result, well even Yuri
Geller would be proud of that, but did it move? Sorry no, not yet!!
We'll get there in the end. We've left it to soak in a little more
release oil, but like MacArthur 'we shall return!' (right)
 It
does work, honestly, that's the HP out, okay it's a little smaller
but the principle's the same! (left)
In the midst of all this 'activity'
we had a visit from Mr Bob Long, he's another dedicated steam ship
'preserver' and a member of the volunteers who maintain and operate
the steam tug and Dunkirk veteran, 'Challenge' (see 'Links Page')
When I say dedicated, I do mean dedicated,
Bob lives in Leeds, the 'Challenge' is based in Shoreham (that's
near Brighton to you and I!!) and he regularly commutes to join
working parties. So it was nothing at all for Bob to nip across the
Pennines to call and see how we were getting along, 'in the flesh'
so to speak. I think it was a valuable meeting for all of us, being
able to exchange ideas and share experiences. I would say it's also
an important aspect of preserving Britain's fast dwindling maritime
heritage, by sharing knowledge and assisting other projects,
everyone can benefit.
Bob mentioned that they could use an
extra volunteer or two down there, now don't all go rushing off to
join!! We still need you every bit as much, but if you live in that
area and can't get along (at the moment) to help with the working
parties up here, then you do have the opportunity there. Of course
she's not really 'run-in' yet (1931) just the one engine and oil
fired, so can she really justify her name?? If we were naming our
pistons, I think we could call one 'challenge' but that's perhaps
the nicest name I could think of at the moment!!
The important thing is we are all
doing something to preserve a little piece of Britain's maritime
history which is no bad thing!
Bob Long (Centre) chatting to a couple of our 'Chiefs' (Steve
Lawrinson, left and John Deakin Right) of course all our 'injuns'
were busy working!!
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November 20
FERRULE FINALE?
Dear Reader, it came as quite a shock
to me when I checked my records, to find that work to open up the
condensers actually got under way on 27th July 2006!
On that date the first of nearly
1500 of our now very familiar ferrules was removed, since then I
have regularly reported on the progress of this work, so that I am
delighted to report that the last of these was finally removed late
on the afternoon of Tuesday 14th November!
The figures are quite surprising,
as well as all those ferrules, over 700 tubes have been withdrawn,
cleaned and safely stored. Three out of four tube plates have now
been released and the last should be off by the time you read this.
The plates alone are secured by 76 3/4" BSW special 'collared' studs
which, like the ferrules cannot be re-used, the majority having
suffered damage to some degree either in use through corrosion or in
the process of removing them after lying untouched for probably half
a century!! Of course we have only reached the half way stage and
everything needs to go back together again in due course, but so far
783 man hours have been expended in reaching our present stage!
That roughly equates to 98
(full) days work so far, imagine what that might
cost if we had to pay a contractor to carry out this work. Believe
me, there's no quicker or easier way to do this either, so I think
congratulations and many thanks are in order to our volunteers who
have never given up on this task from the first day until the last.
Unfortunately while our 'labour
charges' are given freely by our volunteers, a major overhaul of
this nature inevitably has many cost implications. As I have
intimated while the tubes themselves are mainly in good condition,
not a single ferrule can be re-used. Opening up the condensers has
also disclosed some corrosion damage to the lower centre tube plates
on both condensers. These are the cast iron tube support plates
fixed centrally within the condenser body which provide support for
the tubes at mid-length. There is a plate for each tube bank,
supported one above the other and it is the lower of these in each
case that will require replacement. Like most items of 1903 vintage,
'off the shelf' spares do not exist, so these must be made, quite a
task when one considers that over 180 holes must be bored in each
plate, all perfectly aligned to allow the tubes to pass through and
marry up with both tube end plates!! Ignored and not replaced, in
a worst case scenario this could result in the tube bank collapsing
when in service with all manner of attendant problems, so we have no
alternative but to add these plates to our growing 'shopping list'
Not surprisingly those involved in
the work wanted to record the removal of the last ferrule, so thanks
to Colin Brogan, here are some photos of the happy event!
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Almost there, Peter Murray (Willaston)
displaying the penultimate ferrule, the last was still attached to it's
tube at this point. |
Here it comes! L. Graham Dean (Liverpool)
and Jack Nulty (Birkenhead) share the final task (for now) |
Graham and Jack proudly display the
evidence!! |
The tool that made it all possible, loaned
by our friends from the 'Kerne' the much used, much re-ground ferrule
extractor, here modelled by Gordon Weston (Mold) We will be making at
least two new ones, one of which we will return to 'Kerne' with many
thanks! |
Souvenirs, the last two of nearly 1500, as
can be seen from the example on the right, they take a lot of getting
out! |
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FUND A FERRULE?
As has been mentioned, working party
volunteers have contributed the equivalent of 98 days to the task of
overhauling the condensers already, the next stage is to replace all
the components needed to rebuild them. This is the expensive bit and
there are no easy options, each piece needs to be made specially as
virtually no 'off the shelf' replacement parts are available. That
doesn't mean we can't get them, but they don't come cheap and we do
need a great many. We have identified potential suppliers and I hope
in the not too distant future to be able to report the outcome of
negotiations with them. For the moment, suffice to say that the
companies with whom we have discussed our needs have indicated a
willingness to help us all they can, but we can't expect something
for nothing.
In the meantime we are seeking
sources to fund this aspect of the project which by our own efforts
will result in a considerable saving over what the same job would
cost if contracted out. As a task that we can confidently and
competently carry out ourselves, the savings this will bring about
can have a major impact on the overall cost of the restoration. We
have already passed the 17,500 hour mark of volunteer hours this
week, with weekly averages still exceeding 100 hours despite the
colder weather and shorter daylight hours.
So how can you help? Well firstly as
we always say, if you've become a member of 'DAPS' you already have,
if you're thinking this is a worthy cause, then do join and give
your support. Every penny of the funds raised for this project are
used entirely for the project, we don't claim and we don't receive
'expenses' Are we mad? Probably! Apart from our membership, our
activities such as, attending working parties, attending fund
raising events , etc. etc. are paid for out of our own pockets. Why?
- because we have achieved so very much already and have a wonderful
time doing so. Those of us who can afford a little extra, contribute
what we can when we can too. For some this takes the form of a
modest monthly standing order, it doesn't have to be a lot, whatever
people can afford.
Every little helps as they say,
but the added advantage is that in the right circumstances with Gift
Aid, every £1 is worth £1.28 to the project, that's an excellent
return by anyone's standards and a tax item most of us can live
with!
If members would like details of
how to make an additional monthly contribution - they should contact
Secretary
:
Patrick
Crecraft – 8, Newlands,
Naseby
,
Northampton
NN6 6DE
Tel:
01604 740144 pat@pcrecraft.freeserve.co.uk
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November 12
THE TOW LINE
Edition 10 of 'The Tow
Line' has been completed and submitted to the printers. It will be
delivered to members in the near future.
WORKING PARTY PROGRESS
I think all will agree we can
safely say that Autumn is finally upon us and it won't be long
before the really nasty weather will be headed our way. So far the
weather has had little or no effect on the numbers turning out for
our regular working parties with up to 16 volunteers in regular
attendance and continuing progress all the time.
The main ongoing task continues to be
the dismantling of the condensers which is a mammoth job. In all
1472 ferrules must be removed, every piece of packing and 736 tubes
drawn out before the tube plates can be removed and the interior of
each condenser thoroughly cleaned and examined to establish what
internal repairs are needed before the whole process is reversed. It
must be stressed that it's not simply a case of unscrewing these
ferrules, as virtually without exception every one seems determined
to resist to the end. In almost every case, such is the effort
required to remove them, most are damaged in the process and cannot
be re-used. It has taken a great many weeks hard effort to reach the
point where today just a few rows remain to be removed from the
starboard condenser. Some readers may question why are we doing all
this? Well the answer is quite straightforward, originally we set
out to water test the condenser to identify any defective tubes. We
did find just three which were leaking and these were replaced. On
repeating the test we discovered that the tube plate joint on the
port condenser was leaking and needed replacement. This required the
removal of every tube to access the tube plate and replace the
joint. So working on our principle that if there's a problem on the
port side now, chances are there will be a similar problem on the
starboard side later, we opted to do the lot. It might be a massive
job now, but it would be devastating if the problem arose later when
the vessel is back in service and could have a catastrophic affect
on operating schedules and thus the means to generate the revenue
required for self sufficiency.
So just as in the case of the boiler
we're stripping everything out and starting over. Re-tubing the
boiler will form part of the boiler restoration itself and will be
carried out by specialist contractors who will be responsible for
all repairs. Already a number of potential contractors have been
identified and some have already assessed the work required. In the
case of the condensers, albeit with nearly four times as many tubes
to replace, we are confident that the bulk of the work can be
carried out by our own volunteers, who it must be said are rapidly
gaining a level of expertise second to none in the field, even
designing and making specialist tools to assist in the process.
Each and every one is doing a
tremendous job and should be congratulated for their hard work. A
few photos illustrate the ongoing progress;
 Kevin
Lytton and Colin Brogan in the process of removing just one more
ferrule!
 Jim
Ellis (left) works at the aft end tube plate removing packing and
preparing the tube for withdrawal.
A 'tight fit' Gordon Weston (right)
inside the port condenser in the process of cleaning the interior!
 
Some interior views (port
condenser) showing the condition, pretty good for 103 years,
considering..
Of course the confined space means that
not everyone can get involved in the process, but plenty of other
works goes on just the same...
Once
removed the tubes are cleaned for possible re-use..here Volunteers,
David Pickup, Nigel Farrell and Steve Greenhalgh get to it!
Another
view of the condenser work in progress. This view taken through
the starboard bunker door shows the panel remove in the aft
bulkhead of the bunker through which the tubes can be withdrawn,
in the foreground (left) a bundle of tubes already removed, to
the right the bright metal object is the device designed and
manufactured by Jim Ellis which acting like a small winch can be
used to ease the withdrawal of the tubes. When Jim first brought
it aboard it's resemblance to a 'harpoon' earned him the
nickname 'Cap'n Ahab'!!
Elsewhere works continues on the
overhaul of the circulating pumps and their steam engines, like
the main engines these also date from 1903 and were manufactured
by Drysdales, their successors were approached for some
assistance in their restoration, but sadly despite several
letters and e-mails, nobody had the courtesy to reply. So we got
in with it. I have to say this is a rare experience and most
companys we have contacted for assistance have been marvelous,
but we can't expect everyone to be the same. We are pretty
pleased with the results so far with one already having been
test run and the second not far behind.
 Walter
Graham looking rather 'pensive' as he rebuilds the starboard
circulating pump engine, mounted within a temporary 'test
frame' The port impeller casing cleaned up and given a coat of
paint and 'Apexior'
With the weather forecasts likely
to get worse rather than better in the near future, we were able
to organise the replacement of the aft deck covers last weekend.
Once again our great supporter
Bill Thompson and the lads at JPS Scaffolding unhesitatingly
came to our aid. A team effort with our volunteers assisting
where possible, making and repairing battens and so on, soon had
things looking considerably more ship-shape and weather-proof.
As ever a very big thank you to Billy and the Boys, joined on
this occasion by Bill's latest helper, little 'Archie' !!
 The
new cover in place and looking much better. The old one did
sterling service and was partially removed during dry-docking to
allow access.
 Finally...
This is 'Archie' a great little
chap, he didn't actually sweep up with that broom, but he was a
perfect gentleman and gave us lots of encouragement!!
|
|
OCTOBER 30
RESTORATION & OPERATION
I think it's fair to assume that most
regular readers of this web-site, will already appreciate the goal
of the Daniel Adamson Preservation Society, is to conserve, restore
and ultimately operate the vessel in steam once again. To do so and
carry passengers, naturally requires the very highest standards of
safety and full compliance with the latest regulations laid down by
the Maritime & Coastguard Agency.
It is one thing to restore an old
vessel for static use, still more challenging to restore the vessel
to an operational state, but the most demanding of all is to do so
and to allow the carriage of passengers.
In 2004 when we first embarked on
this project most of us had little perception of what would be
involved. We did know that it would be no easy task and that unless
the hull was in moderately good condition, it would be almost
impossible to succeed. Two and a half years or so and two
dry-dockings later, we know that the hull condition far exceeds what
might have been reasonably expected for a steel ship built over 100
years ago. We now know exactly which plates must be replaced so as
to comply with the MCA regulations for the class certification. In
fact, along with the machinery and just about every component part
of the vessel, we are at an advanced stage in the project planning
process and hopefully will soon move on to the next phase.
At this point, perhaps I should just
repeat, that this has taken just two and a half years, which by
anyone's standards is a remarkable achievement and the momentum of
the project has been quite staggering. I have to say that this
progress is in no small way, largely thanks to the enthusiasm and
dedication of our ever expanding group of working party volunteers
and I can report that by day's end next Tuesday, the volunteers will
have completed over 17,000 hours work!
The task is a considerable one and it
must be said there are easier options. Sadly the easiest solution is
that of a vessel 'preserved' in a static role, perhaps looking for
all the world like it might still operate, but in reality destined
to remain an inanimate object, which can only convey an impression
of it's former life. In Britain, by far the majority of vessels from
large to small are 'preserved' in this manner. This is no bad thing,
for at least the vessels survive and clearly the practicality of
operating them all is impossible. In general, a much smaller number
of preserved vessels actually operate and of these the majority are
restricted to the carriage of their basic crew and one or two
'invited guests'.In
effect, the benefit of operation is only experienced by a few,
while access may be possible to visitors on occasion, this must
necessarily be confined to occasions when the vessel is alongside,
or restricted to very limited numbers.
By far the smallest group of
preserved vessels in operation are those certified for the carriage
of more than twelve persons, literally a handful by comparison with
the total number of historically significant vessels surviving in
the UK. Most readers will readily identify the principal examples
and hopefully many will have travelled aboard them and
thereby contributed to their survival. It is this latter group
which we have striven from the outset to join. We are not alone in
this ambition and our goal is shared by a number of similar
projects, many of which, it has to be said face overwhelming
challenges. We sincerely wish them every success and applaud their
dedication to the task, sadly not all will succeed and equally it
must be accepted there are no guarantees for any of us. There are
after all only limited funds available and I have no doubt every
project can argue most forcefully that theirs should be a priority.
There are of course some ideal
conditions for the preservation of vessels in operation, principal
amongst these is the vessel acquired immediately upon 'retirement'
from commercial service, by and large the vessel will remain in
'running order' and will have been regularly maintained, surveyed
and largely complete, down to the last detail.
Of the remainder the condition of the
vessel will vary greatly, from largely complete, in need of repair,
to barely salvageable and examples of each category readily spring
to mind. In addition the question of the vessel's historical
significance, rarity and location must be taken into account, so
that those judged as most valuable overall, irrespective of
condition should be independently evaluated and considered alongside
others more easily 'saved'
So while we can argue with a passion
that the 'Daniel Adamson' is indeed a most significant, historically
valuable and unique example of her type, nothing is assured.
On the other hand, we should not
forget that our detailed surveys have been extremely positive,
proving that a full restoration is entirely feasible, that indeed a
return to operation is a practical proposition and that the vessel's
size, design and general condition mean that the overall project
cost will be relatively modest by comparison with others.
Having held this view, virtually from
the outset, we should feel no great surprise, that after only two
and a half years, the 'Daniel Adamson' is now free of all hazardous
materials, in better condition than at any time in the last twenty
years and ready and waiting for the restoration to begin. In fact as
will be seen from our working party reports, some considerable
elements of the restoration process are already underway.
Perhaps in some quarters doubt exists
as to the viability of a passenger carrying 'tug', indeed I am sure
that some folk may dismiss our vessel out of hand as 'nothing out of
the ordinary' or perhaps 'just another tug boat!'
Some may feel that even as a
passenger vessel the 'Daniel Adamson' may have little to offer, well
perhaps a look at some examples from around the world will be of
interest and may enlighten one or two sceptics, that Britain is long
overdue in getting 'in on the act'
Photo
2 'Forceful' No not another former 'MSC' tug, but a
similar funnel it's true, again built in Britain, this time in 1925
by Alexander Stephens & Sons, Govan, Scotland for Queensland Tug Co.
Brisbane, Australia. Operating Passenger/Museum vessel, see
www.maritimemuseum.com.au/index.htm
Photo
3 'Success' Last (for the moment) but by no means
least, also a little closer to home, but
not that close! A beautiful example of a
preserved (albeit much modified) steam tug. Please visit the
'Success' web-site at
www.faim.nl/ (Leave the sound on) and be prepared for some
amazing views of just what can be done with 'an old tug' this
particular example dating from 1897 and still very actively engaged
in Holland. Site in Dutch but lavishly illustrated!
Acknowledgements to Alan Hughes (Sourcing 'Laurindo Pitta' &
'Forceful') and John Broomby (Sourcing 'Success')
|
OCTOBER 21
THE TOW LINE - CHANGE
OF PUBLICATION DATES
The latest edition of
the Daniel Adamson Preservation Society newsletter is currently in an
advanced state of preparation.
However, for the third
quarter in succession the publication target date will be missed. It has
proved difficult for a variety of reasons to catch up with the time lost
early in the year.
Rather than continue
the late running of the newsletter it has been decided to change
the publication dates and by doing so put publication back on schedule.
The publication
schedule had been for publication in late late January, April, July and
October. This will now be changed to late February, May, August and
November.
Members will therefore
receive the next edition of 'The Tow Line' towards the end of
November.
Edition 10 will
contain details of how to obtain a copy of a superb new art print of the
'Danny' taken from a painting by a local artist.
John H.
Luxton |
|
OCTOBER 08
OPEN DAY & AGM - OCTOBER 07
I think it is
fair to say that this year's AGM and 'Open Day' was a great success,
with over 70
visiting the boat and some 60
attending the AGM that followed. Considering how far some members
actually travelled to attend speaks volumes for the level of support
the society enjoys. It is perhaps a misconception that the 'Daniel
Adamson' enjoys only local, regional support, so that it was a
pleasure to welcome members old and new from all over the UK.
[Photo: J. Broomby]
We met friends and
supporters from the Isle of Man, Wales, the Midlands, 'The South'
and 'Home Counties' even one member who had travelled from
Invergordon in Scotland for the occasion!
With members
worldwide in fact, the turn out was truly fantastic, so for those of
you in Ireland, Norway, the Far East (Hi Steve!!), Australasia and
the USA you were there in spirit we know and we appreciate your
support every bit as much.
I think those who
hadn't been aboard previously or since the last AGM saw a lot of
progress and the 'DA' looking much 'healthier' than 'she' used to,
just a couple of years ago.
All this has been
possible by your support, not just as working party
volunteers, but by all those who play a part in the society's
activities, up front and behind the scenes, in point of fact by
every member, near or far, so thank you all.
The AGM itself was
well received and I think all will agree, very informative with an
excellent 'Power Point' presentation. This explained in great detail
many of the intricacies involved in fund raising, project planning,
society accounts and the ongoing work as well as proposals for the
way ahead.
I think few would
argue that the presentation covered just about every point in great
detail and in fact left little in the way of major questions from
the floor. That said a healthy exchange of questions and comments
from the floor did take place and hopefully received a satisfactory
response.
Rather than single
out individuals I should just like to thank all who participated, to
make the day such a great success.
Thanks too, to all
those who contributed to our stalls and helped generate some
£315.90 to add to our funds on the day, well done
everyone!
Of the £315 raised £83
was received in the raffle for the book "Cory Towage Ltd" by
W.J. Harvey. This book normally retails for £35 and was donated by
author Bill Harvey to raise funds and is the only signed example.
The book tells the full history of Cory tugs from 1895 until their
sale to Wijsmuller Marine in 2000. [Rea Towing, Liverpool was part
of the Cory group.]

Finally an
appeal We would love to hear your comments on any
aspect of the day, good or bad (we can take it!!) or the project
itself and invite you to add your comments to the site
Guest Book. [Please note that there will be a
delay of several days before your entry appears - J.L.]
The Guest Book provides
a great source of feedback on the project and the web-site which can
be a valuable tool in demonstrating the widespread support the
project enjoys, it's there for your use, please use it. Thank you.
Neil
Marsden
|
OCTOBER 04
MEMBERS' OPEN DAY
As most of you will know it's that
time again with the AGM set for this coming Saturday, 7th October at
2.00pm in the Lecture Theatre, Liverpool Maritime Museum, Albert
Dock, Liverpool.
Beforehand the vessel will be 'open'
to visiting members (remember your membership card please!) from
about 10.00am and will be closed promptly at midday, we have to put
everything away and eat too, then present the AGM, so please don't
be late to avoid disappointment.
Light refreshments will be available
on board, although no hot meals can be provided. There will be ample
tea and coffee available together with limited stocks of 'DAPS'
merchandise, so if you've not already bought all your bits and
pieces don't forget your purse/wallet! As ever, all monies raised go
directly to the project and every penny counts.
So you'll recognise the boat we've
put her name back on!
Thanks to the skills of John Broomby our 'master joiner' we now have
a new 'replica' name on the port bow. The letters (made from MDF!!)
are a temporary subsitute for the original brass letters which will
be replaced in the future when their safety can be assured! John's
replica letters are made from tracings of the originals so are
accurate in style and size, they even look like they are brass, so
you can judge from the accompanying photos.
Hopefully by Saturday the vessel will
be looking as pristine as we can manage in the prevailing weather
conditions and with due allowance for ongoing work, should make for
an interesting and enjoyable visit. Unfortunately time and
circumstances have not allowed us to replace the aft deck awnings as
yet, but that aside, we hope you will see some noticeable progress
since your last visit.
  
The photos
show John Broomby fitting the new letters, with John Pickering
overseeing proceedings in his capacity as 'alignment expert'!! Phil
Janion can be seen up forward where he was tidying up the paintwork
and re-sealing the saloon window covers to keep out the rain. While
not intentional the finished result gives an impression of the
windows, although we did resist the temptation to paint them in
greater detail with a couple of imaginary passengers just yet!!
Anyway, hope you like the results...
- Neil Marsdan
|
|
SEPTEMBER 27
To say it has been rather hectic of
late, is rather an understatement, as with both John Deakin and
Colin Leonard away on holiday it has fallen to me to organise
working parties and staffing arrangements
for the 'DAPS' stand. While the work aboard continues, we have also
had to make last minute arrangements to cover commitments at two
events held over this weekend, when we had initially believed both
events were combined at the same venue! Still it all worked out
well in the end and I must first thank all those who volunteered to
help, all the 'old familiar faces' again I'm afraid despite my
continuing pleas for assistance.
The attendance at events in the
region is most important in spreading the word about the project,
recruiting new members and generating funds etc. Equally the efforts
of the working parties aboard allow a tremendous amount of work to
be carried out aboard at minimal or no cost, in fact saving the
restoration project many thousands of pounds in funding.
Unfortunately we can't do both justice with the limited number of
members who volunteer their services. For that reason, with events
coinciding on both 'working party' weekends something has to give.
Staffing stands both at Malpas Steam Fair and Ellesmere Boat Rally
meant that no working party could be held aboard that weekend.
Determined that our Saturday 'volunteers' could get at least one
working party in September, I hoped to cover both this weekend's
event or rather events as it turned out and manage a Saturday
working party too!! We did just manage, but it could be
made easier with just one or two extra pairs of hands.
October will be much the same with
our final show this year on 1st October, AGM on 7th and weekend
working party on 21st. Meanwhile of course our weekday working
parties continue as normal.
I should say that it's not all doom
and gloom, the stand at the Model Boat Convention, held this year at
a new venue, The Birchwood Centre, Warrington enjoyed a good deal of
success both recruiting several new members and raising extra funds.
Tony Hirst was invited to open and close the show at Birchwood thus
necessitating his attendance at both day's events, the stall was
staffed each day as well and involved six more members, including
the omni-present, John Deakin, freshly returned from holiday. He was
there again today, but this time at Ellesmere Port Boat Museum
representing 'DAPS' on the occasion of the National (Model) Tug
Towing Competition, where he was to make the awards to the
competitors. The event was held at EPBM rather than at Birchwood due
to the limited water space at the latter location and was hosted by
Bryan Ward of 'Mobile Marine Models' (Sponsors) and John Hughes of
the Ellesmere Port Model Boat Club (Event Organiser) Some tremendous
models were on show, the teams displaying some great skill and
enthusiasm in what was a very interesting and enjoyable event. Much
to our surprise an unexpected and generous donation was made to
'DAPS' funds following a quick 'whip-round' of those in attendance
for which we are very grateful.

Photo Member
John Deakin (R) receives a generous donation to 'DAPS' from John
Hughes of Ellesmere Port Model Boat Club during the prize giving
following The National (Model) Tug Towing Competition, Ellesmere
Port Boat Museum
Notwithstanding the weekend's
events, we did manage a slightly smaller than normal working party
on Saturday as well, with eight volunteers involved and a fair
amount of progress made. Amongst those taking part was new member
Roy Quirk, who attended his first working party on Thursday and was
back for more on Saturday!! Roy won't be a regular WP volunteer as
he lives on the Isle of Man, so the commuting is a little tricky,
but he hopes to return again in the not too distant future!! Until
Roy's visit our most distant volunteer to date had been Gary
Dickinson from Market Drayton, but with members all over the UK and
abroad, perhaps one day we can set a new record??
"SWINGING THE LAMP"
There may be one or two readers
unfamiliar with the term, probably most have heard the phrase
'Swinging the lead' which as we know implies the actions of an idle
or malingering individual, when of course the actual process of
'swinging the lead' was a vital safety procedure aboard ship before
the advent of echo sounders and so on, when a lead weight attached
to a line was cast overboard to estimate the depth of water under
the keel of a ship. The nautical connotations of 'swinging the lamp'
on the other hand, do indeed imply an idle activity!! Well sitting
'round talking basically, mostly of recollections good or bad on
each and every conceivable subject! So it is, I confess, an
activity which we volunteers engage in at every opportunity, but in
fairness, mostly at 'smokoe' (or tea-break for you
'landlubbers')
To be fair, readers of these articles
may assume that life aboard as a working party volunteer, is a case
of all work and no play, much of it heavy, dirty work at that, but
it's also a great deal of fun too. While many of our volunteers are
of a maritime background, many are not, yet naturally having joined
'DAPS' we share a common interest.
It is also fair to say that a good
few volunteers might be considered as in 'the Autumn of their years'
(with a couple fast approaching Winter too!!) but I confess I never
cease to be amazed at the level of motivation displayed by them. It
is as if they 'shed the years' on stepping aboard, ignoring
artificial hips, kidney transplants and a list of ailments of every
description. The experience literally transforms them and for a few
hours a week they are once more 'in their prime' and thriving on
it. It's infectious and it doesn't stop there. By way of
illustration readers will know of the long drawn out process of
removing the ferrules and tubes from the condensers, a continuing
saga, now done to death by my reports in these pages, but one which
seems to have concentrated the massed minds of those involved. It
is amazing to see the variety of home made tools, ideas and designs
conjured up by them to simplify the process, the innovations are
startling and worthy of a bygone age and all this at home in their
own time too! So it is only fair that occasionally after a well
earned mug of tea, conversation turns to times past.
Perhaps it's the location, aboard a
ship dating from a time when the British Shipping Register comprised
more vessels than all the rivets in the 'Daniel Adamson' when sea
travel, was quite literally 'the only way to go' and even the
'Wright Bros' were just bicycle makers. The UK fleet was the largest
in the world and it's ships dispersed across every ocean. Sadly very
little remains today, yet as an island nation we are entirely
dependent on the sea.
Some may consider the 'DA' just a
tug, a 'tug/tender' at best, others having seen 'her' in a little
more detail, may realise that she truly represents an exceptionally
rare piece of our nation's maritime heritage and that from one of
the most significant periods in our history. Among our volunteers
(and no doubt the wider membership too) we have people who sailed in
ships of both the Royal and Merchant Navies, aboard ships long since
consigned to the memory, for companies known the world over, Athel
Line, Bibby, Blue Star, Brocklebank, Chapmans, Clan, Cunard, Elders
& Fyffes, Furness Withy, Harrisons, Manchester Liners and more. On
tugs and all manner of unsung craft upon which every port depends,
tugs of Alexander Towing, Lamey & Rea's, of course those of the MSC
itself amongst them. The whole spectrum is covered by these men,
from barges to battleships, from 'tramps' to the 'Queens' No book
can ever tell their story as well as they themselves, the 'DA' is
just a part of it all, history is all about people, so shouldn't
we 'swing the lamp' a little more?
Volunteer John Churchill
|
|
SEPTEMBER 14
REMINDER - HELP WANTED
FOR BIRCHWOOD MODEL BOAT SHOW - SEPTEMBER 23 & 24
The Society Stall will be
attending the Model Boat Show at Birchwood, Warrington on Saturday
September 23 & 24.
We really do need some
volunteers to crew the stall to avoid having to withdraw working party
members from the vessel that day.
If you are not a regular
working party volunteer but have a few hours available on Saturday
September 23 it would be of great help to the society.
If you can help please contact
Neil Marsden
Tel:
01516082868 email:
neil.marsden3@ntlworld.com
Thank You |
|
SEPTEMBER 10
HELP WANTED!
As regular visitors to the site will
know, we do strive to maintain frequent updates. First and foremost
the idea is to report on the project's progress and new information
as and when this comes to light regarding the background and history
of the vessel.
We also invite contributions for our
'Memories' page whereby members can recall events and recollections
from the past. Articles could refer to everyday life on the River
Mersey, the Manchester Ship Canal, as well as other inland waterways
of the region, recalling times past, the life and work of those
whose livelihood centred in and around these waterways and so
on. There will be many readers who will have fond memories of a life
now consigned to history, yet of great interest to others perhaps
not old enough, or fortunate enough to have experienced it first
hand. Many readers may possess photographs or material with which
to 'illustrate' such articles adding still further to this valuable
record of local and social history.
Imagine a generation who may never
have seen the river full of ships, ocean going vessels steaming
through the countryside, a seaport in the heart of Manchester or
even a working canal boat! In my view the restoration and operation
of the 'Daniel Adamson' will play a big part in redressing this
situation, but for all that, it is the people involved who made it
all happen. Some folk may be hesitant to set down their memories on
paper, but it is the content, not the grammar of such articles that
will provide such a valuable resource.
I do know that we have amongst our
members a number who have written or continue to write some
excellent books and articles based on these very subjects, I would
only ask that perhaps one or two may contribute an extract or piece
to help develop this idea. Hopefully others will be inspired by this
and add their own recollections too.
I do enjoy my involvement with the
working parties, staffing promotional events and my regular updates
on the web-site, to name some of my 'DA' related activities, but I
could do with a little help and no doubt readers may welcome a new
'face' too, so come on, we'd love to hear from you!!
SKILLS &
TALENTS
I was reminded this week, that we
had not formally acknowledged the offer of the professional
services of a recent new member. I should firstly say that,
albeit belatedly this has now been addressed and we sincerely
hope we have not lost this potentially valuable source as a
result.
I think it is fair to say, that
it is all too easy to concentrate on the work in hand
aboard ship and to lose sight of the skills and talents of
others, who, for whatever reason cannot participate in 'working
parties' I have already 'hinted' perhaps none too subtly, that
we have a number of accomplished writers amongst our membership,
who I hope will consider lending their talents to the cause.
We have recently been approached
by a very talented local artist, who has kindly offered to
provide a painting of the vessel 'in action' with a view to
providing a highly desirable and marketable art work for
generating much needed funds. We look forward to providing more
information on this in the not too distant future.
There are no doubt many members
who possess skills and talents in a wide variety of fields which
we may not have automatically considered previously, or which
they themselves thought might not be useful.
Some examples might include model
makers, designers, illustrators, fund raisers, historians,
advertising/promotional specialists, transport specialists,
educationalists, journalists and just about anything else
really. Well we did have the offer of a 'shanty singer' some
time ago, but considered this was not an urgent priority, but in
the main, chances are you possess a skill or talent we can use.
You may simply enjoy visiting
antique shops, steam fairs, even car boot sales, in other words
just the places you might come across items to replace those
lost, damaged or 'borrowed' from the boat and might spot
something we desperately need.
In a nutshell, if you think you
may be able to help the project in any way, or maybe 'know a man
(or woman!!) who can' then don't hesitate to get in touch. You
can find my e-mail address elsewhere on the site and I will get
back to you.
WHAT'S BEEN
HAPPENING?
Well,
being the holiday season, quite a few of our regular volunteers
have been away for varying periods, perhaps not surprisingly for
some, they've been 'busman's holidays' to some extent, with
trips aboard Elbe Steamers (Eddie
Doig - Photo left), Lake
Lucerne Steamers and of course in the case of our Webmaster, all
manner of things that float!! (See
www.irishseashipping.com )
Even
I couldn't resist sampling the 'competition' in the
'land-locked' Czech Republic, with a dinner cruise on the River
Vtlava, through Prague! I have to say that while this was very
pleasant, I think when restored the 'DA' will definitely have
the edge, although the accordion accompaniment provided on the
Prague trip was very good. The musician provided an
'international' repertoire, with renditions of traditional Czech
folk songs, 'Danny Boy' for our Irish companions, but not quite
'You'll Never Walk Alone' as my wife's effort to refresh his
memory, didn't quite strike a chord! In fairness I barely
recognised it either! Still the beer was very good!
On board we've been as busy as
ever and welcomed another new volunteer, Graham Dean to our
growing numbers. The main ongoing work continues with work on
the condensers, well actually still the port condenser which is
in the process of having all tubes removed, 368 of them, along
with two ferrules each. These have to be carefully removed to
avoid damaging the tube plates and after several years most are
reluctant to part company without a struggle! It's a long,
laborious process and of course there's another one to do when
the port condenser is finished. While many of the tubes appear
in good condition on removal, unfortunately the ferrules which
secure them in place are mainly beyond further use and will need
to be replaced, nearly 1500 of them!! They are not cheap and
some alarming individual prices for new ones have been quoted,
as much as £7,500 for a complete set in one case!! That's two
and half times what the boat cost to buy in 1921!!
Overall carrying out this work
ourselves, while a long drawn out and tedious process, will mean
a considerable saving over having the work carried out by
contractors and the savings made can be utilised elsewhere. So a
big thank-you to all those involved.
Work on the main engines
continues and after considerable effort I can report that
the securing nuts which hold the pistons to the piston rods have
at last been freed. Originally the special open ended spanner
provided for this purpose and which had been found 'painted' to
the engine room bulkhead was utilised. All efforts to move the
nuts failed despite the application of ever larger flogging
hammers, so that in the end, modern technology came to the
rescue in the form an air hammer and a suitably impressive
socket set!! Even so it was still necessary to heat the
assembly before even this monster made an impression, but
finally all was well, but it took all day for just four nuts!!
We have been re-assembling the
steam side of the port main circulating pump after a thorough
clean up and the removal of a century's worth of old paint. It
looks considerably better than it did and we will hopefully soon
be able to test it on air. It turns well now by hand, but of
course it will be reassuring to give it a thorough test before
completing the overhaul of the complete pump assembly. Then of
course we move on to the next one. In all there are eleven
separate steam engines aboard, so the fact that we are able to
do much of this overhauling ourselves is of great value. We are
well on the way with both main engines and their associated air
pumps, next comes their integral reversing engines. The steering
engine has been overhauled thanks to TTE and we are already well
advanced with the general service and port main circ. The feed
pump is ready to be removed from the boiler room, which will
just leave the Tangye sanitary pump and Sissons Generator to do,
so not bad considering what else we've achieved in the last few
months.
No Saturday working party was
held this weekend (September 09, as we attended rallies at two
locations in our ongoing efforts to promote the project and
recruit new supporters.
Volunteers attended the IWA Rally at
Ellesmere, Shropshire and the 'Yesterday' Steam Fair at Malpas,
Cheshire. Fortunately the weather was fine for both events and
involved seven of our regular working party volunteers, sadly it
seems no other members offered their services which is a pity as
these are great days out in their own right.
The
newly purchased display stand debuted at Malpas, along with a
lot more updated photographs of the work in progress. Both
stands attracted a good flow of visitors and much 'verbal'
support, but very little in the way of funds for the project,
hopefully some new members will join as a result of this effort,
but if you are reading this and have yet to join please do so.
If you are already a member
but have yet to 'recruit' a friend please try. It is important
to remember that we need to show a strong membership support for
the project, not just by working party volunteers, but by all
supporters. Funding bodies naturally want to see that projects
they support financially are popular and have a growing
membership.
Malpas showed just how popular
'steam' is today with crowds gathering to watch the stately
progress of some magnificent engines, but with access mainly
confined to the fortunate few. It occurred to me that the 'DA'
will not only provide an amazing array of steam engines all in
one location, but will allow so many to travel aboard too!
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A Couple of 'Nutters' Steve Lawrinson &
Wally Graham apply heat to the piston securing nuts! |
'Applied Technology' does the trick! |
Port circulating pump engine is
re-assembled, looking a lot better and with a first coat of primer too |
Port Condenser, the work goes on (and on!) |
Jack Nulty manufactures a new 'ferrule
extractor' we've worn the old one out!! |
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SEPTEMBER 02
THE TOW LINE
Edition #9 of THE TOW
LINE have now been despatched to members. If you do not receive your
copy within the next few days please contact the secretary.
Enclosed with THE TOW
LINE will be a copy of the new A4 DAPS poster and a membership renewal
reminder for those who have not paid their 2006-7 subscriptions yet. |
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AUGUST 18
THE TOW LINE
Edition #9 of THE TOW LINE has been
despatched to the printers and will be on its way to members very
shortly. Apologies for the delay.
THE TOW LINE BACK
ISSUES - DOWNLOAD HERE!!!
For members who would
like to complete there collection of the "The Tow Line" can now download
back numbers in Adobe pdf format from the web site.
These will print out
in A5 format - except edition 1 which is A4 - and can be folded to make
them into booklets.
[Click
Here]
NEW POSTER
The downloadable A4
Daniel Adamson Preservation Society Poster has been revised. If you know
of a public notice board that could do with a copy please download and
print it out. The wording has been revised, the HLF logo included and a
superb new profile of the "Danny" has been provided by Neil Marsden's
daughter. [Click Here]
A MINOR MILESTONE
Having been missing
from the last few working parties as a result of a short holiday and
other family commitments, I was surprised to discover that work had
not stopped despite my absence!
On the contrary,
on returning aboard today, I discovered that considerable further
progress has been made in all areas.
Down below in the
engineroom detailed measurements of the main engine cylinder bores,
bearing clearances and other details have been meticulously recorded
and already a locally based firm of specialists have visited to
discuss practical, cost effective methods of addressing some of the
adjustments and repairs required.
Our volunteers
have continued stripping down the port condenser, for a complete
overhaul, whilst away from the vessel, Vice Chairman Dan Cross has
been as busy as ever liaising with a wide range of potential
suppliers of necessary replacement parts and other contractors. As
is often the case when contact is made with such firms, it is not
unusual for one or more of the directors to request a personal visit
to see the job first hand. Not only is this mutually beneficial so
that everyone understands what can and cannot be done, it also
allows a valuable dialogue in discussing other options which may be
considered. In many cases it provides experts in a particular field
an opportunity to see machinery of a type and age they may never
have encountered before, or if so, not since their early careers. It
is also pleasing to learn that the necessary skills are very much
'out there' and in some instances if a particular company cannot
assist, chances are 'they know a man who can!'
On deck, the old
flaking paint of the promenade deck awning (interior) has been
scraped, rubbed down, undercoated and a fresh coat of 'eau de nil'
applied. Again, this may well be just another 'cosmetic' touch, but
it certainly makes a difference, it's brighter, cleaner and helps
preserve ma | |