OU
Jordan Spreader
 |
 |
| At Chama. Jul 31, 2004. Photo: Curt Bianchi. Click image for larger size. |
1978
As part of the Scenic Railways 1978 Winter Special, OU was used to clear snow between the Chama yard and north of the
Highway 17 grade crossing. [Hereford]
2000
OU was used in maintenance-of-way service for the first time in over 17 years. In preparation, the shop crew spent
several days getting OU’s onboard equipment ready for service, lubricating mechanical joints, changing airlines,
repairing broken pipes and rotten wood on the cab, and installing a new deck. Because the spreader consumes a
large amount of air, the track crew’s portable air compressor was welded to the deck as the main air source for the spreader.
Subsequently OU was used to clear the right-of-way to bare dirt over the entire 64 miles of the line. [Dispatch 13-3]
2004
Volunteers undertook the restoration of the spreader to operable condition. They removed all decking and the cab. They found broken welds
and cracks in many of the supports along the steel framework. The volunteers worked with the engine house crew to
plan the schedule of repairs. [Dispatch 17-4]
2005
The two rear cylinders were removed and new gaskets were made. Measurements for new seals were taken,
and new seals were ordered. New gaskets were made for all cylinders.
A lower I-beam bracket that attaches between the two side frames was repaired and remounted. The operator’s
manifold was removed and will be sent out for restoration over the winter. Shop personnel did a lot of
arc welding underneath, on top, and in front to repair the many cracks and broken pieces. More welding
was needed. The railroad also intended to fix the arm on the right side that was broken in use sometime
during 2000 when they ran it into a cut. [Dispatch 18-3, TLR CC06 2005]
|
