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Gallery, Projects and General => Project Logs => Topic started by: sbwhart on June 17, 2012, 11:32:50 AM

Title: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 17, 2012, 11:32:50 AM: I decided some time ago that the mabel loco I'm building would not suite my needs so thats bin put under the bench to be finished off some other time. I started to look arround for a completed or a nearly running 5" loco to buy, and came across this one.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/IMG_36792.jpg)

Its a Aupper Simplex to Nigel Evans design with a Belper Boiler its a very popular loco simple to build with a good performance, ther's about 5 that run regularly at our club.

Don't you Tim. I know your lerking :lol:

Its about 90% complete but what sealed it was it has a boiler cirtificate tested to 200 psi for running at 100 psi, it was built by a guy who unable to complete it due to ill health, the price was right so i took it on.

Briefly it needs most of the plumbing work doing, including a boiler feed pump, a lubricator, and a good tidy up, I wan't to try and get it in steam for the boiler steaming test by the end of summer if i can, then I'll do the tidying up work including a repaint through the winter.

First job is to make the feed pump. you can get a casting for it but I dropped on a chunk of bronze so first job was to square it up and mark the key holes out.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1771.jpg)

Then centre it up under the mill zero the DRO and set the vice stop, then rough drill out for the bore and finish off with a 14mm reamer, drill the cover holes and the bypass hole.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1776.jpg)

Flip it round in the vice and drill the cover holes at the other end.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1780.jpg)

Put it on its side and drill and tap for a plug and the outlet hole.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1782.jpg)

Onto the other side and drill and tap for the inlet hole, the bottom of the hole has four 2mm holes drilled on a pitch circle in the bottom.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1784.jpg)

Then over onto the the tapping stand to thread the rest of the holes.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1786.jpg)

Now to check out where it fits :Doh: the streacher it fits on should be 1 1/8" wide for some reason the guy made it 1 1/2" wide and no holes are drilled, its a complete strip down to get the streacher out nothing for it but to change the fixing.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1787.jpg)

but thats for another day.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on June 18, 2012, 01:06:36 AM: Hi Stew, looks a nice model - I always thought the same about Mabel, it may lack power, boiler capacity and traction. Really want to get mine sorted one day but it seems a million miles away at the moment, just don't seem to have the time or will do do anything!

Simplex on the other hand is a well proven passenger hauler - the ones i've driven have been very powerful and steamed very well.

Nick
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: engjas on June 18, 2012, 05:33:50 AM: Hello Stuart

Good work on the pump.

For the sake of others who may be searching for the Super Simplex locomotive design I've just rechecked my aged memory with the index for "Model Engineer" and find that it was designed and described by Martin Evans who was at one time Editor of "Model Engineer" rather than Neville Evens as you credited in an earlier post.

An easy (Freudian?) slip to make particularly as Neville Evans also a designed and described a number of miniature Locomotives in Model Engineer.

best wishes for the successful completion of Super Simplex.

John
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Rob.Wilson on June 18, 2012, 04:30:06 PM: Stew ,she Looks a well built loco :thumbup:

I will be taking notes :)

Rob
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 18, 2012, 04:45:38 PM: Quote from: engjas on June 18, 2012, 05:33:50 AM
Hello Stuart

Good work on the pump.

For the sake of others who may be searching for the Super Simplex locomotive design I've just rechecked my aged memory with the index for "Model Engineer" and find that it was designed and described by Martin Evans who was at one time Editor of "Model Engineer" rather than Neville Evens as you credited in an earlier post.

An easy (Freudian?) slip to make particularly as Neville Evans also a designed and described a number of miniature Locomotives in Model Engineer.

best wishes for the successful completion of Super Simplex.

John

Hi John

:Doh:

yes you're correct it should be Martin Evans don't know were i got the Neville from

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on June 18, 2012, 06:00:51 PM: Hi Stew.
Just clocked in. Brought me flask and sandwiches. :thumbup:

I'll try to keep quiet, and out of the way......... :)

Defor.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 20, 2012, 07:29:35 AM: I was trying to avoid stripping the engine down untill i'd had the steam test done, but after a study I think fitting the pump in arriund the wrong streacher would only lead to more complications, so decided to strip it down gald i did as one or two other areas I'm not happy with showed up, far better to get it right than try and limp allong.

Her's a few pics of the stripped down loco.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1806.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1807.jpg)

The linkage is comming out as well, but that will be in a couple of weeks.

And the boiler and supper heater.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1808.jpg)

Stew

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on July 07, 2012, 02:47:24 PM: :update: :update: :update: :update: :update:

Finished of the pump piston

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1815.jpg)

Then whilst I waited delivery of a 5/8"*26 BSB tap and die decided to strip out the streachers for modifying, and uncovered a load of problems, the linkage has bin made as rough as a bears arse, not only is the finish crap, loads of things have been bodged to fit, the coupling rods should articluate but they are locked solid, screws missing etc etc etc, its such a bag of crap that I decided the only thing to do was to strip it down and build it back up fixing things as I go, it looks like I'll have to remake/rework lots of parts.

This is it stripped down.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1836.jpg)

I've got more to do to get it running than I thought

:(

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Rob.Wilson on July 07, 2012, 03:14:30 PM: Dam shame Stew ,,,,,,,,,,, well at least it will be done correctly and run allot better by the time you have finished :thumbup:

Rob
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 03:53:35 PM: Stew.

So sorry to learn it's not as good as hoped. :(

Why does nobody do anything correctly, as we would like it to be? :doh:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Rob.Wilson on July 07, 2012, 03:59:17 PM: Quote from: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 03:53:35 PM

Why does nobody do anything correctly, as we would like it to be? :doh:

David D

:lol: :lol: if they did David ,you would have nothing to do :lol: :lol: :lol:

Rob
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 05:23:45 PM: Quote from: RobWilson on July 07, 2012, 03:59:17 PM
Quote from: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 03:53:35 PM

Why does nobody do anything correctly, as we would like it to be? :doh:

David D

:lol: :lol: if they did David ,you would have nothing to do :lol: :lol: :lol:

Rob

You're right there Rob! :thumbup:

How boring would that be? Nowt to grumble about, and everything working perfectly........ :)

David.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Rob.Wilson on July 07, 2012, 05:26:27 PM: Quote from: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 05:23:45 PM
Quote from: RobWilson on July 07, 2012, 03:59:17 PM
Quote from: Stilldrillin on July 07, 2012, 03:53:35 PM

Why does nobody do anything correctly, as we would like it to be? :doh:

David D

:lol: :lol: if they did David ,you would have nothing to do :lol: :lol: :lol:

Rob

You're right there Rob! :thumbup:

How boring would that be? Nowt to grumble about, and everything working perfectly........ :)

David.

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: thought as much David :headbang:

And we would be deprived of your orphan builds :(

Rob
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: gabrielsmith on July 10, 2012, 05:06:10 PM: Take heart Stew, its only taken me 12 months to sort out my Simplex!!!
will watch with interest, lurking Tim?
live long ,and prosper.
stardate 10/7/12

gabriel smith
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on July 11, 2012, 01:40:07 AM: Welcome Tim pleased you broke cover, I'm sure the chaps would like to see some pics of you're Simplex :D

Bit of an update on the loco found out its not as Supper Simplex as bought, its just a plain simplex with a belpher boiler, wheel centres 7 1/8" cylinder 1 1/2" bore, still supper or just plain Simplex i would have bought it and I knew it was a bit rough but underestimated just how rough :Doh:

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 11, 2012, 02:23:11 AM: Some more areas, not as you thought Stew? :scratch:

But, ok with it, still. :thumbup:

Hmmm...... Eternal optimism!
Another orphan arrives here today. Fingers crossed...... (http://serve.mysmiley.net/rolleye/rolleye0013.gif) (http://www.mysmiley.net)

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Rob.Wilson on July 11, 2012, 12:21:58 PM: every confidence you will sort it Stew :thumbup:

Whats the specs on a Super Simplex ? is there much between them .

Rob
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on July 11, 2012, 12:36:53 PM: Hi Rob

The supper has a slightly longer boiler with extra supperheater eliments, cylinder are a 1/16" bigger, the wheel base is longer by about 3/4" and the coupling rods have a different articulation method, and the boiler feed pump is of an improved design.

Apparently the supper is supposed to have improve efficiency, but from what I can find out ther's not much difference. :scratch:

I wasn't aware of any of this until it was to late :Doh:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on July 12, 2012, 05:52:59 AM: A bit more progress I seem to swapping about on this I like to work a bit more methodical, but I keep having to put parts aside whilst I wait delivery of something, I've tried planning ahead but my plans keep comming unstuck.

Cut a sqaure in the streacher that covers the feed pump eccentric so that it can be lubricated.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1842-1.jpg)

Then the 1/4 dia s/steel balls arived so back onto the feed pump.

Made the front cover and gland this calls for an odd thread size 5/8 * 26 BS Brass, luckily I was able to borrow a tap and die from a club member.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1852.jpg)

To seat the balls you have to give tham a sharp square bash using a drift.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1855.jpg)

Then carfully measure the depth to the ball.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1854.jpg)

Then work out the length of the fitting to give the ball a 1/32 lift so that the valve works correctly.

These are the pump bits

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1858.jpg)

Then I had to put this aside whilst I took delivery of some 3/8 steel plate for the mounting steacher.
:doh:

So on with something else

Stripped the cylinders down to take a look, some good bits some bad, the steam galleries on one cylinder had been quite mangles, the other had just been drilled under size, not much I could do with the mangling the best i could do was to open up the undersize ports in the other cylinder to balance the steam flow a bit better. So set it up in the mill and lined the holes with a drill and a square by Mk 1 eyeball then opened them out to 1/8

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1859.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1863.jpg)

Then with swiss files joined the holes up.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1867.jpg)

The valve boxes had some studds misssing, so made some of these but I had to turn down some 4mm bar to 3.55 (4BA) for this I used this little gadget I've shown this before but it won't harm to show again.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1876.jpg)

Itys a small moving steady

To use make a bush for the gadget the size of the raw bar.

Then turn a spiggot on the end of the bar the size you want to turn down too, to set the tool in the gadget

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1870.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1873.jpg)

Put the bar in the lathe roughly centre the gadget start the end of the bar into the bush and off you go.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1878.jpg)

Cut the studs of to length and thread job done.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1882.jpg)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: mzt on July 12, 2012, 06:06:04 AM: Gotta make myself that small dia turning gadget, someday.

Marcello
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on July 12, 2012, 11:30:57 AM: That gadget looks a good idea Stew ... nice one with the cylinders.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 24, 2012, 11:58:04 AM: Its time I updated things on my Simplex Project.

Its not as easy doing a log fpr a rebuild as it is for a engine build as things are far more fragmented any way here we go

Borrowed a quartering jig from the club and checked the cranks had been set correctly at 90 deg, whats important is that all the axles are the same it will stand a deg or tow out, as long as all axles are out the same.

This is the jig

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1947.jpg)

And this is how you use it, you assemble the axles in the same orientation as they will go into the loco frame

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1946.jpg)

You check the crank pin with fealer gauges what you want is for the same measurement under the same left or right hand crank pin.

Mine came out withing 0.005" to each other I think that will be OK when you take into account the play in the system.

Also checked the wheel centres using slip gauges the best I could determine is that the centres between the driving and leading axle is 7 3/16" it should be 7 1/8" and between the trailing and driving axle 7 1/6" again it should be 7 1/8", I've ordered a 12" vernier so will check them again when it arrives, if this is correct I'll have to adjust the coupling rods accordingly.

Taliking about coupling rods I've ordered a complete set of laser cut coupling rods and valve linkages they won't cost much more than buying the material and cutting them out myself.

Whilst waiting for the laser stuff to arive I've also built the oiler. The tank was fabricated from a thick brass plate box that Dek gave me (cheers Dek)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1940.jpg)

I was trying to follow a drawing for a lubricator that resently apeared in Model Engineer, but the drawings were all over the place so I just did my own thing its off the plunger type.

I could have used a friction clutch but I kind of like to watch the old ratchet type lubricators work so thats what I did, John kindly overed to cut the ratchet on his digital deviding head but I was kicking my heals any way so decided to cut it myself on me manual devider.

I used a little dove tail cutter got from RDG her it is with a couple of blanks i turned up to make the ratchets.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1955.jpg)

This is the set up for cutting it.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1968.jpg)

I cut 45 teath which is easy for a 90:1 wheel its just two turns of the handle for each tooth.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1967.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1974.jpg)

And the completed lubricator

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1943.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1976.jpg)

Still needs those springs tidying up and some gaskets fitting but its more or less done and the ratchet does its job.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: saw on August 24, 2012, 12:25:16 PM: Well done, it's an intressting project you have here... :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 25, 2012, 04:44:43 AM: Hi Stew.
It's nice to see you're moving along again, with this project. :thumbup:

Never a truer word..... "Its not as easy doing a log fpr a rebuild as it is for a engine build as things are far more fragmented".

I also, feel as though I'm wading through treacle at the moment. LIFE's getting in the way, much too much....... (http://serve.mysmiley.net/rolleye/rolleye0014.gif) (http://www.mysmiley.net)

Hope you can get a good run at it, now. :D

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 25, 2012, 08:16:50 AM: Cheers Dave thanks for you interest.

Life has an habbit of getting in the way of things, just hope and pray that its the nicer side of life

All the best for you and you'rs

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on August 26, 2012, 06:12:04 AM: Hi Stew
Glad the little box thing was put to good use. The job looks to be coming along nicely, if anyone can make a silk purse from a sows ear you can. Hope to see you on the club open day, ( 15th September ? ) if not sooner.

Cheers Dek. :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 26, 2012, 11:24:33 AM: Thanks Dek

The club open day is on the 16th I got it wrong I've told a few people its the 15th I can see myself getting well stuffed (insert imotion of turkey getting stuffed)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on August 26, 2012, 03:01:57 PM: Thats buggerd that then! The 16th is my birthday and i shall be racing my rocker covers,about a mile away. :hammer: :offtopic:

Cheers Dek.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: krv3000 on August 27, 2012, 07:27:41 AM: well thats sum brill work well dun
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 28, 2012, 02:32:51 AM: Thanks for your interest guys.

The more I get into this project the more I regret taking it on, spent the last few days checking out the wheel,axles and axleboxes in the frame, and what a bag of crap they are :(

The axles are under size and tapered, the axle horns are 3/16" undersizes and the ones for the trailing axle are out of square in the frame, the axle boxes are undersize fit in the undersized horns as well as tapered and out of square, the axles centres should be 7 1/8" what I've got is 7 3/16" between the driving and leading axles and 7 1/16" between the driving and trailing axle. As a result everything fits like a turd in a pisspot.

I've bin pondering long and hard the best course of action, and come up with a number of options.

Option one:- Find a bloody big hammer and beat the crap out of it, then cash it in at the scrap value.

Option two:- Just bodge it together as it is and hope for the best.

Option three:- Split the axle boxes off the wheels so that I can make new, as one of the wheels is pinned to the axles there is not much I can do with them except bore the bearing bushes to fit. As the frame is bolted together strip it down this will alow me to cut the axle horns to the correct size and to get them square and a correct fit on the axle boxes. Then I have to remake all the linkages and valve motion etc etc

I've too much cash tied up in in for option 1.

As for option two having spent quite a bit of time hanging round the club track, I've noticed there are two types of loco's there are those that run like clockwork visit after visit the owners will turn up get them in steam and run round for a couple of hours only stopping for water and coal, and there are those that turn up do one lap of the track then something falls off siezes breaks they lose boiler presure can't keep the water level up etc etc etc this happens at every visit. I don't want this i want something that is going to be a decent runner so option two is out.

So its option three:- But I'm realy getting itchy feat to build the Dake engine, so I'm going to work on the loco until end of September try get as much done as I can, then build the Dake I know it looks a complicated engine on paper but their realy arn't that many parts to it and having given it lots of thought I recon there's only two or three months work in it, I will then dedicate the rest of the winter to finishing off the loco, so that by next spring I should have it finished with luck.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 28, 2012, 05:36:10 AM: Stew.

So sorry to hear of your frustrations.

It's very disappointing, to discover what just shouldn't be....

But! ...... You know it makes sense........

You'll be happier, in the end. Knowing you've made a much superior assembly.

Been there.... I keep on going there! I'm funny like that! :loco:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on August 28, 2012, 08:41:21 AM: Stew,

Sorry to hear about the Simplex, you're right about there being two types of locos - seen that myself many a time.

I agree with David, just take your time on it, there's no rush. I bet your Mabel would run better seeing the care and attention you've put into that ... but being small they will be a bugger to steam. You'll get there and the result will be worth it.

Nick

ps did you get my PM? :poke:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 28, 2012, 11:05:44 AM: Nick yes I did

I thought I'd replied any way the answer is yes I'll be arround and look forward to seeing you. had lawrence Mac and his lad over yesterday to play with the engines and to eyeball my set up.

Thanks for the support Dave

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 29, 2012, 12:42:23 PM: Thanks for your input and interest Guys

One of the things that I've been strugling with, is just how good do these things have to be, I know that for the thing to go round corners and for the axles to go up and down and for the thing to stay on the track you need some slack in the system but no one can tell you how much

Time to get a grip of the situation and get the bloody thing sorted

Up bright and early on in the shop after a bit of a rummage in the old stash i found the cast iron that a Guy gave me some time ago , a quick measure and whoopee I have enough for the axle boxes.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1980.jpg)

Next a rummage for some steel to make a puller and cam up with this bit of garage door

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1984.jpg)

Saw it in half then stick a 3/4" through the midle and a couple of 10mm clearance holes at each end, cut through into the 3/4" hole so that it makes a yolk to slip round the axle. Drill and tap the middle of the other peice M10 two more 10mm holes at the end to match with the first peice.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1985.jpg)

So you've got this

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1986.jpg)

I was telling one of the Guys at the club about my problems and he said the way to heat the wheel up to deactivate the loctite was do it nice and gently with a paint striiping heat gun:- so zapped one of the wheel for about 10 min to get it nice and hot then using leather gardening gloves assemble it to the puller.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1988.jpg)

Tighten the centre bolt up to give it a gentle squees and slowly she came off.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1991.jpg)

Repeat with the other axles and the jobs a good one.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1992.jpg)

This allowed the removal of the crap axle boxes, you can see one of their problems her as they were too narrow and the guys had bushed them with phos bronze bearing there wasn't enough meat to take them and the hole broke through the side. :facepalm:

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1993.jpg)

One wheel is pinned to the axle you can see the pin at the 5 oclock position on the left hand wheel axle.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1983.jpg)

The next big decision is do I drill out the pin and make new axles, or do a leiv them and make the bearing bushes to fit.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on August 29, 2012, 06:59:31 PM: Nice 1 getting the wheels off Stew, now you can sort it properly.

I am supposed to be finished around 12:30 so I'll give you a ring then (still got your number and address from last time) to see if it's still convenient!
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: HS93 on August 29, 2012, 07:37:37 PM: I bet the wheel was pinned because it was loose so it might if you heat it a bit pull it a bit and knock it back the pin may stay out enough to be pulled out.

go for it

peter
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 30, 2012, 03:33:23 AM: Quote from: HS93 on August 29, 2012, 07:37:37 PM
I bet the wheel was pinned because it was loose so it might if you heat it a bit pull it a bit and knock it back the pin may stay out enough to be pulled out.

go for it

peter

...... You know it makes sense........

:thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 30, 2012, 04:08:03 AM: OK I'll go for it :D

Had a good study of the pin through a magnify glass as i was unsure if it was threaded or not, this confirmed that it was threaded but what size took the best measurement i could of it and consulted thread BA thread tables (this guy seemed favour BA) looked like 4 BA, so they by Mk 1 eye ball put a small centre pop in the middle of the pin, then gripping it in a chuck centred the mill on the centre pop, and clamped the chuck to the table centre drill then a No 33 dril (2.8) for 4BA core dia then drill the pin out.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1996.jpg)

A bit more heat from the heat gun and a gentle squese from the puller and off she came :D

Repeat for the other two axles, and whilst i was on a roll decided to go for the crank pins that have to come out on the driving axle came out smooth as silk.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/131_1999.jpg)

A lot happier now :D :D :D :D :D :D

I can start and put it back together as it should be.

Particularly as I picked up the laser cut links yesterday

:ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb:

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_1994.jpg)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 30, 2012, 08:41:58 AM: Well done, that (happy) man! :clap: :clap:

Now, you've got a clean start..... With what you've got to work with......... :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on August 31, 2012, 08:37:05 AM: Had the pleasure of seeing Stew again yesterday and believe me, this loco will be running like a champ by spring!

Thanks for the hospitality Stew. :beer:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 31, 2012, 12:30:31 PM: Cheers Nick it was good chating engineering with you my Boss just looks at me blank :D

Corrected the horn blocks today

As the frame was bolted it stripped down easily if it had been welded I'd have been stuffed.

First job from the drawing identify the datum hole and line the two sides up by putting a tight fitting number drill through the datum hole check all the other holes line up and bolt the frames together with some M4 screws.

Then from the datum hole find the correct position for the centre on the midle horn block and mark it with a centre pop, from this centre pop mark the 7 1/8 position to the other two horn block and mark these.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2001.jpg)

The frame is to big to machine all three horn blocks in one setting and the job realy needs two vices or to angle plates i've got one of each :scratch:

So put the vice in the midle of the table and grip the frame with one horn either side of the vice, and starting with the centre horn suport the other side of it with the angle plate when machined index to the other horn and move the angle plate over to support it whilst its machined

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2004.jpg)

To locate the centre of the midle horn use a pointer on the centre pop and zero the DRO

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2008.jpg)

I used a long long series milling cutter, its a regrind that I picked up at a show for no other reson that I may need it some time, nows its time.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2014.jpg)

Index over with an alowance for the cutter diameter and taking 1mm deep cut nible away the horn, index over the same amount to the other side and mill that side out.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2018.jpg)

A quik check with slip gauges shows it to be 1.247" that will do me.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2020.jpg)

Index over 7 1/8" to other horn swap the supporting angle plate over and mill that out the same

To do the remaining horn you have to take the fram out of the vice to reposition it, first clock the cut centre horn verticaly to check its in the vice square.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2027.jpg)

Then find the edge of this horn.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2028.jpg)

Index to its centre and zero the DRO then index over 7 1/8" to the remaining horn, machine this the same as the oother two.

this is an overall shot of the complete set up.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2040.jpg)

A check with slips and a vernier showed that width of each horn to be 1.247" 1.247" and 1.245" and the centre distance to be 7.127"and 7.124"

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2041.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2043.jpg)

That will do.

:D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: saw on August 31, 2012, 12:48:34 PM: This is so intressting to follow, you have an wonder full tecnic and I am learning a lott. :smart:
Thank you. :headbang:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on September 01, 2012, 04:12:52 AM: Great stuff Stew, absolutely spot on! :thumbup:

I guess that is the same setup if you are doing it from scratch? Leave the final bit of cutting until you've got the frames clamped together to ensure they are all in line?

Cheers,

Nick
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 08, 2012, 03:53:16 AM: Thanks for your support and interest Nick and Saw

Whilst i'd got the frames stripped thought I'd take the oportunity to tidy up a bit of butchery inflicted on them to line up the boiler blow down valve.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2044.jpg)

They key hole shape just didn't look like, so cleaned up the hole that was far from round.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2046.jpg)

Anbd turned up a top hat shaped plug the was a tight fit in the hole, when firmly fixed in placed filed the remaining hole to match, it looks a lot neater now.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2047.jpg)

I painted the frame parts first with a primer coat then a Hammerite Smooth came out a bit patchy but not too bad as most of the frame will be hidden behind things.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2077.jpg)

Had one bugger of a job to square up the frames I could get the driving and leading axles horns square but no way would the driving and trailing axles horns square up I tried all sorts of combinations of assembly bending and general jiggery pockery to try and get them square, in the end put it to one side whilst I did something else and godgitated on the problem, this morning I had a brain wave, check out the squareness of the streachers, sure enough the face of the streacher between the driving and trailing axles is out of square by quite some margine, so that needs making new.

Also found out that Loctite thread loc is a great paintstripper :Doh:

These are the axles I pulled the wheels off, you can see the fit was bodged by centre punching around it to make the tight fit on the wheel, this and the fact they were under size on the bearings propted me to make new.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2057.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2059.jpg)

So took delivery of some 3/4 mild steel bar,

First operation with a true running collet, centre drill each end and stick a oiling hole down the midle of each end.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2050.jpg)

Then cross drill 1.5mm into the oil hole this will make oiling the bearings easy.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2053.jpg)

Then between centres carfully turn down for a nice push tight fit in the wheels, you don't want this fit to tight or you'll split the casting but you don't want it too slack. The advantages of working between centres is that the two wheels will be running true and you can remove it to try the fit and put it back and it will still be true in the lathe.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2055.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2056.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2064.jpg)

I was planning to use some cast iron that I had in my stash box for the bearing blocks but when I came to cut it to size the first bit cut great but the second bit was glass hard I cocked up two slitting saws tring to cut it, it must have been chilled when cast it needs anealing, so gave that up as a bad job and order some material from Blackgates.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2054.jpg)

Just spent the last two days flycutting them to size.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2071.jpg)

More maching still needed to fit them into the horn blocks and drill to fit the axles, but thats a job for next week.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on September 08, 2012, 04:04:07 AM: I love a good, creative bodge, to put right some butchery. :thumbup:

But....... I'd rather not have the butchery in the first place! :loco: :doh:

I hope that's the end of all the nasties now Stew........ Onwards an upwards! :)

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 16, 2012, 08:28:56 AM: Cheers Dave

Little more progress and corrective work this week.

Before I finished off the bearing blocks I was far from happy with the width of the horn blocks, they should all be the same width, but what I had got, was up to 1mm variation even from side to side and up and down on the same horn.

What was needed was to sit them on the front face and flash the back face off to make them all the same. To do this I needed to make a fixture and work out how to clamp the frame too it. For this I used the jig plate that I made some time ago, First clamp a chunk of ally to the jig plate and mill out a platform for the front face of the horns to sit on.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2080.jpg)

Turn the jig plate round 90 deg then sit the horn on the platform use the jig plate to clamp the frame down, starting with the thinest horn skim it off level, then repeat with the rest to the same zero setting on the mill, and they all ended up the same size and nice and parallel.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2082.jpg)

I then spent a good day trying to assemble the frame square, (measure across the diagonals to check for squareness) after trying to assemble the frame in all sorts of combination with twisting etc I had a think about what I hadn't checked that may effect squareness, checked the squarness of the streachers, sure enough the front streacher was out of square this was having the effect of pulling everything out so made a new streacher.

Old and new streacher

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2078.jpg)

That sorted it.

With the frame square and the horns all the same it was an easy job to mill the groove in the bearing blocks to fit in the horns, sorry no pic of this

Then it was a matter of drilling out first using centre drill then bigger and bigger drill up to 19mm and finishing off with a 3/4" hand reamer, I marked the blocks up so that I could assemble them in the same orientationas they were drilled.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2089.jpg)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2090.jpg)

Drill and tap for the spring hangers and drill the top for an oil hole.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2098.jpg)

Then final fitting by bell mouthing the groove so that the wheels will move laterly to take up unevenness in the track, what you're after is a nice smooth fit not too tight or the darn thing will derail.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2111.jpg)

And fitted in the frame

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2110.jpg)

Whilst I was maching I was also painting the frame and letting it dry, toward the end I had to start a new can of paint for some reason it started to look even more patchy than my usual crap painting so gave it another coat even worse :scratch:

Checked can :Doh: Dark Green not Black that will teach me to shop without my glasses.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on September 16, 2012, 10:27:51 AM: Looking great Stew, shame about the green paint! :lol:

You're nearly back to where you were but it's like a new chassis now. :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on September 16, 2012, 10:36:52 AM: Stew.
I was reading along..... Thinking how accurate, and professional it was beginning to look. :thumbup:

Then I bosted with laughter, at the thought of a camouflage paint job. :) :bang:

Three steps forward......... :Doh:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: saw on September 16, 2012, 10:53:50 AM: Nice work :bow: :bow: :bow: :bow: :bow:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 20, 2012, 11:01:55 AM: Cheers Guys

Camolflage paint :drool: now thats an idea :D

Bit more done not many pics this time as it was mainly boring stuff.

As the crank pins and been bodges the same as the axles decided to make new just a nice hand tight fit in the wheel then some loctite.

Then using the quartering jig and high strength loctite secure the wheels in place, it doesn't mater if they are out a deg or two but all wheels must be out the same using the jig makes this job a doddle.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2114_zpsefd6de71.jpg)

After letting the locite do it curring thing tried them in the frame :Doh: i'd put one axle block on the wrong way, nothing for it but to pull the wheel off, with the origonal axles they came off easy after a bit of heat from the heat gun, but this there was more resistance I was ******** myself that I would crack the wheel so a bit more heat and another go still nothing, so a lot more heat and another go this time bang:--- :( crapped pants:- but it was only the loctite giving way. I supose thats what you get when you do the job correct :D

Made new axles box and spring keeps and fitted the springs, I was assembling the last pair of springs when Murphy struck, I slipped and:- ping one of the springs disapeared a quick search and nothing:- plan B, clean the shop nothing:- plan C, call CSI in for a forensic search nothing:- plan D, order a new set of springs and its bound to turn up. That worked took a casual glance and their it was peeping out from under the mini wheel lauging at me. plan E cansel new set of springs.

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Her it is all assembled.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2115_zpsdc00dc87.jpg)

Also took delivery of a trolly lift to help move the thing about a load and unload it from the car, bin looking for one of these for some time and Dek spotted these on ebay £200 free delivery a good £50 saving on other supliers:- Thanks Dek :thumbup:

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2116_zpsafefac49.jpg)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on September 20, 2012, 04:48:30 PM: Glad i could be of assistance in some way Stew :ddb: I see there is a new open day planned in October, while i know its not M.E. i could bring along the track and some rocker cover racers if they can find the space to set it up. Like we did at the car show, a small charge could be made to "rent a racer" in aid of the chosen charity. See what the powers that be say. :poke:

Cheers Dek :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on September 20, 2012, 04:57:24 PM: Looking good Stew, laughing at the spring story but bet that was really annoying at the time! :lol:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 20, 2012, 05:12:23 PM: Quote from: Deko on September 20, 2012, 04:48:30 PM
Glad i could be of assistance in some way Stew :ddb: I see there is a new open day planned in October, while i know its not M.E. i could bring along the track and some rocker cover racers if they can find the space to set it up. Like we did at the car show, a small charge could be made to "rent a racer" in aid of the chosen charity. See what the powers that be say. :poke:

Cheers Dek :thumbup:

The October day is being run by a medical charity Hernias of Africa or something like that, its a group of medics who ones a year go over to Africa set up a surgery in the bush and carry out hernia ops, the club are turning the track over to them and some of the guys are running their locos for them. Not quite sure who the powers to be are I'll make some discreat enquiries.

Quote
Looking good Stew, laughing at the spring story but bet that was really annoying at the time!

You can say that Nick:- I was bloody livid, I have an habbit of setting myself a target for the day, i wanted to mod the lift table with a rotating engine assembly frame, but I spent such a long time looking for that spring I failed, still its there for another day.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on October 07, 2012, 02:26:29 PM: Well things havn't come to a standstill on this just a bit slow plus I had a thick.

Cleaned up the coupling rods as they were laser cut this just ment cleaning the hard scale off heat effected edge this was easiliy done with an old file then they were given a good going over with emery cloth.

Then after carfully measuring the axle centres set them up in the mill and using the DRO drill for the bearings at the correct centre distances.

With that done i had to make a jig from a chunk of ally to hold the rods on their side for thining them out and cutting the flute with a woodruff cutter.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2156.jpg)

Then using a slitting saw cut the tang for the tennon

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2159.jpg)

Then cut the tennon in the other link.

Then made the phos bronze bushes sorry no pics of this just a simple turning job.

As I'd carfully made everything at the correct centers i was full of confidence that it was just a matter know of fitting the bearing and away we go NO i was wrong the darn thing locked up, checked everything ok all correct still locked up :scratch: this was the start of my thicky week I tried everything to try and get it to turn over opened out the bushes this worked but resulted in a very sloppy fit not happy with that measured and re measured swappped thing arround still no good.

Saturday morning came round without sucess and went to a club charity steam up, got talking to some of the wise old guys, "you have made the bushes excentric havn't you and made everything a lose fit":- "no i've made everything a good fit and concentric":- "well thats were you've gone wrong you should make the two outside bushes excentric and a lose fit crank pin, you then rotate the bushes in the rods until you get the sweet spot wher the loco turn over mark their position and fix them with some loctite retainer.

This morning up bright and early turned some bushes up with and 0.5mm off set fitted them as advised job done in three hours:--- you can't beat a bit of experience

:D :D :D

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/131_2162.jpg)

Thats it the loco is going away for a few monthe whilst I build the dake

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on October 07, 2012, 02:48:20 PM: Nice one Stew, I knew you would get it sorted. :thumbup:

Cheers Dek.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: saw on October 07, 2012, 03:15:11 PM: Wow :bugeye: :bugeye: :bugeye:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 11, 2013, 11:45:58 AM: Well I guess its time i brought you all up to date with this project, I must admit I've been a little remis at taking picture the reason being is my trusty old shop camera started playing silly buggers, and I've only just got a replacement.

So what have i been up to:- well I've more or less remade everything you see in this picture, this doesn't include the cylinders and vlave chest, but everything else I've remade including fitting cast iron pistons and rings.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC00019_zps3818bad9.jpg)

This is my pile of bits I've scrapped off so far.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC00020_zps938b37b6.jpg)

Still got a few more bits to make:- motion plate bits for the lifting link and valve link, when these bits are done I will have everything to start putting it back together but I I know this will take a bit of fitting and fetling to make everything to look buisness like. I'm getting a bit fed up with the project so before i put it together I'm planning on a quicky engine build, my simple horizontal mill engine.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on April 11, 2013, 02:14:01 PM: Stew! :bugeye:

You were so quiet, I was starting to think your new office job had completely taken over :palm:

Nice to see you're still moving this project along........ :clap: :clap:

Waiting for the video. :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 14, 2013, 03:47:36 AM: I think the video is some way of Dave :- Office job is not too bad it doesn't keep me out of the shop, mostly reading done at night whilst avoiding the rubish on the telly :D

I'm going to park the loco project and make a start on the simple horizontal mill engine I drew up as way of giving me a break from the loco, I'm beging to get a bit weary of it and need the break before I start on the home run.

Completed the expansion link assembly

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC00022_zps720a2b56.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC00022_zps720a2b56.jpg.html)

Its the bit that puts the loco into reverse.

Cheers

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 12, 2013, 12:43:37 PM: Picked up the cudgel on this again, I left off, where I just needed to make the motion plate and one more link arm thingy. Before I started on the motion plate tried a lose assembly just to see how things lined up in case I needed to make a small adjustment to it, and it was clear that with my new linkage there was no way things would line up, particularly with the left hand side of the loco so did a bit of measuring and

:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

The position of the valve rod on the left hand steam chest is only out by 5mm there is no way that the linkage will miss the slide bars and the right hand one is out by 2mm.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00439_zpsc7d0704c.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00439_zpsc7d0704c.jpg.html)

The lines indicate where it should be.

:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

This explains why the linkage on the loco when I bought it were all bent and cut about in short they had been well bodged.

Decided I'd better check a few more things out ports in the cylinder ok, they took a good look at the slide valve

:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00437_zps4c0bc236.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00437_zps4c0bc236.jpg.html)

The pocket in the face of the valve should be in the centre there is no way this would work, the narrow slot should be closer to the edge by about 3mm.

I have only two options buy new casting but I'm allergic to that word buy or rework the existing ones some way. With the steam chest I can cut the crap bits off drill and tap a hole in the correct position and screw and Loctite in some new bosses so correcting the error, with the slide valve there is no way to correct them so I've ordered some cast iron bar to make new.

So to fix the steam chest.

As nothing is square on this darn thing first thing I had to do was give myself a square face so clamped the cylinder to an angle plate fastened the steam chest to it and skimmed off its back face square, I can use this to ensure that the valves rods work parallel with the pistons.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00447_zps6985a4bd.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00447_zps6985a4bd.jpg.html)

Then using this square face clamp the steam chest onto the angle plate, line up on the scribed lines and zero the DRO

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00448_zps222fbb37.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00448_zps222fbb37.jpg.html)

Machine the boss off and skim another face square.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00449_zps073ac6eb.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00449_zps073ac6eb.jpg.html)

Come back to the zero position and as the hole is out of position trying to drill through would cause the drill to wonder, so use a slot drill to take away the hole.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00450_zpsd6eafce3.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00450_zpsd6eafce3.jpg.html)

Then drill and tap 1/2"*32 ME

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00451_zps8f80eec6.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00451_zps8f80eec6.jpg.html)

The surgery on the other end was not as drastic as this just had a 3/16" hole that guides the tail of the valve rod, so with this one centre on the cross lines and drill through and tap 3/8"*32 ME

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00454_zpscc11264f.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00454_zpscc11264f.jpg.html)

Turn up and thread a couple of plugs

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00453_zps4a290cc6.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00453_zps4a290cc6.jpg.html)

And screw them in good and tight with stud lock.

Remark the correct position, and set back up on the angle plate, pick up on the cross lines, drill and ream through 3/16 and drill and tap the top boss 3/8"*32 ME for the valve gland.

The front boss needs to be drilled 3/16" dead in line with the rear boss so I used a long series centre drill for this.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00456_zpsda1dc8b0.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00456_zpsda1dc8b0.jpg.html)

Need to make or buy a long series 3/16" drill to finish off, but before I got that far I got one of those Dad can you help calls from my daughter.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 14, 2013, 06:20:11 AM: Sorry that I've not done an update on this for some time chaps but a lot of my time for the last few months has been taken up with holidays (artic circle) birthdays and anniversaries, the biggest of which was our 40th, spent a lovely weekend with all the family around us, it was really nice seeing our three grand kids all playing together.

Any way on the simplex front I reworked the steam chest and made new slide valves. Next up was making new motion plates these were fabricated from 5/16" plate and angle iron riveted together. I simple stuck the two plates together with two way tape and a pin, then marked the part out and milled it out to shape.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00465_zpsaf8a2318.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00465_zpsaf8a2318.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00470_zpsfcc68b90.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00470_zpsfcc68b90.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00514_zpse9c17322.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00514_zpse9c17322.jpg.html)

This is the finished motion plate

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00566_zps7c83c27d.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00566_zps7c83c27d.jpg.html)

I also made new lifting block for the reverser and the lifting link the block for the lifting link was an interesting job it has a 4" curve that required the use of the RT.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00563_zpse763010c.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00563_zpse763010c.jpg.html)

This is the block the little bit with a hole in it assembled in the curve of the link I made two together.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00565_zpsd21f908f.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00565_zpsd21f908f.jpg.html)

I also moded my engine assembly manipulator to fix the simplex this makes it easyr to turnthe engine over to get to each side far better than mauling it around to get to the part you want to

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00569_zps6afa0b7e.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00569_zps6afa0b7e.jpg.html)

The rest of the work was all about fitting bit cleaning them and getting them to work correctly, I spent a good few days trying to chase out tightness in the end I traced it down to one of the piston rings standing proud by about 0.002" it was sorted by cutting the groove in the piston a little deeper.

This is the state of play so far

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00570_zps49c23b5f.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00570_zps49c23b5f.jpg.html)

I hoping to try it out on air in two or three weeks time so keep your fingers crossed.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 28, 2013, 05:32:13 AM: Thanks for your interest :(

I remade the reversing quadrant the one that came with the loco was a bit rough so I remade it.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00593_zps516a67be.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00593_zps516a67be.jpg.html)

The notches still need cutting but that won't be done until the valve are set.

Now I wonder if any one can give me a bit of advice on how to sort out the next problem I've come across.:-

I've tried a number of time to assemble the coupling rods and get it so that the wheel rotate coupled together but no mater how I tried they lock up, if I open the bearing out by 0.032" they will rotate over half a turn but lock up.

I measured the axle centres in the frame and they are correct within 0.004" and everything is square, I've checked the crank pins quartering out at they are spot on all the same on all three axles, I've checked the coupling rod centres out and they are spot on the correct centre distance, the only way I can get the wheels to turn over anything like is two make the bearings in the coupling rods big by 0.40 that is far to slack to my mind. The only thing that I haven't worked on is the throw of the crank they are how the original builder made them, so checked the throw out

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00595_zps3d3e3e7d.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00595_zps3d3e3e7d.jpg.html)

The throw should be 1.0625" but it is far more important that the throw on the crank pins are all the same:-

What I got was axle 1 :- 1.087" and 1.092" axle 2 1.074" and 1.083" axle 3 1.080" and 1.063" so they are far from consistent there is up to 0.030 variation.

Ok hers the ? is this too much variation

Do I need to correct this and how

The only way I can think of correcting it is to recut the crank pin hole in the wheel to the next size up and fitting new crank pins.

Is there any Loco builders out there who can point me in the correct direction.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: ozzie46 on August 28, 2013, 07:43:56 AM: Stew, when you try turning the wheels do you have packing pieces between the axle boxes and the spring plates to bring the wheels to running height like it would be when fully assembled? The plans say to use 1/8 packing pieces.

Also I have read that fits on Locomotives are almost a worn out fit. Don;t know how true that is.

Great job on the rebuild so far by the way. :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Ron
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 28, 2013, 10:00:50 AM: Hi Ron

Thanks for you're interest, and pointing out the need for packing I haven't tried that so will give it a go.

You right about the fits on locos they need to be slack but that's where I have a problem knowing whats too slack and what is just right to guess the only way to find that out is trying it.

Cheers

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: chipenter on August 28, 2013, 03:05:13 PM: If the wheels are off the axle you could reduce the pins , and either make sleeves or smaller bearings , using a jig on a face plate .

Jeff
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 28, 2013, 05:54:51 PM: Thanks for your interest :(

Sorry for the silence Stew.

My thoughts were. If you can't say anything to help..... Say nowt! :med:

Tricky little buggers, these orphans....... :(

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 29, 2013, 02:07:12 AM: Quote from: Stilldrillin on August 28, 2013, 05:54:51 PM
Thanks for your interest :(

Sorry for the silence Stew.

My thoughts were. If you can't say anything to help..... Say nowt! :med:

Tricky little buggers, these orphans....... :(

David D

You're not kidding about them being tricky buggers :D I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that this is the last trick from this one :hammer:

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Kjelle on August 29, 2013, 03:31:19 AM: Hi Stew!
Been following this since I first saw it, but as I have nothing to add, I just kept my mouth shut (or rather my fingers off the reply button). I'm impressed by your work, and hope to see it run in the end.

Kjelle
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: ImIndoors on August 29, 2013, 06:17:11 AM: Hi Stew
I have very little knowledge of locos and thus little to add to your thread. But I have been following with very keen interest as the "saves" you have been making translate to other engineering areas.
Please keep posting and don't lose heart I'm sure you'll get it running right eventually.

Jim
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 29, 2013, 03:43:15 PM: Kjelle/Jim:~ Thanks for your interest and encouragement.

This morning up bright and early I executed plan A correct the outliers on each side, the first job was to pull the wheels off the axles and press out the crank pins, so with fingers crossed this is what I did. I used a paint stripper gun for the heat gave the wheel a good blast for 5 minutes to get it good and hot and to soften the Loctite, then gave it a gentle squeeze with the puller and I'm pleased to say that they came off no problem.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00596_zps83d407f8.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00596_zps83d407f8.jpg.html).

Spent the rest of the day making bits for a jig to recut the crank throw in the wheel next size up and another jig to set the valve timing when I get that far. Took delivery of the reamer but still waiting for the 8'5mm end mill with a bit of luck that should land tomorrow.

Thanks for your suggestion and support Guys

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 29, 2013, 03:58:46 PM: Nicely started Stew...... :thumbup:

Is that every part/ assembly, you've had to modify? :(

Or, are there some areas left, you're hoping to ignore/ get away with? :palm:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 29, 2013, 04:21:36 PM: Dave:-

More or less everything with the running gear from the frame onwards has had to be remade or reworked, my Boss said I could have made one from new, which I think is close to the truth, the next biggie is the boiler it has a certificate pressure tested at 180 psi, I've had the boiler inspectors at the club give it a good eyeballing and they said it looks strong and should be OK,:~ but (there is always a but) the tapping for the safety valve are way out of plum, they really offend the eye, so that is something I want to try and sort out, got one a two ideas but that is going to be next year sometime I think. It has a stainless steel supper heater that looks dog rough but that doesn't matter as long as its pressure proof. The chimney and smoke box saddle looks like they have been chewed by an crocodile with a bad attitude, but they have plenty of meat on them so I think I can tidy them up, the smoke box door needs sorting and there is quite a bit of plumbing work to do.

:hammer: :hammer: :hammer: :hammer: :hammer: :hammer:

There is a Chap at the club who has rescued a number of loco's (orphans) he seems to enjoy the process :(

My objective at the moment is to get the bloody thing running on air.

I'm starting to get that itchy feeling for another engine build. :poke: :poke: :poke:

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Kjelle on August 29, 2013, 06:05:17 PM: Quote from: sbwhart on August 29, 2013, 03:43:15 PM

Spent the rest of the day making bits for a jig to recut the crank throw in the wheel next size up and another jig to set the valve timing when I get that far. Took delivery of the reamer but still waiting for the 8'5mm end mill with a bit of luck that should land tomorrow.

Thanks for your suggestion and support Guys

Stew

An endmill 8 feet, .5mm? That ought to be 2438,9 mm.... How big is your mill? I mean, realy? *running, ducking, laughing*
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 30, 2013, 01:08:23 AM: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Nice one Kjelle:- I think I must have had a bag dose of badtypingitis :D :D :D :D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Kjelle on August 30, 2013, 02:51:53 AM: :beer: I think you have the same problem as I do sometimes; one dyslectic keyboard! It can't be easy to be fluent in both Imperial and Metric measurements...

Kjelle
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 01, 2013, 11:23:42 AM: Kjelle:- I went through the changeover in the Uk from imperial to metric system in my early 20is, so I'm fairly fluent in both systems, in fact I use to use my fluency to bamboozle and young graduate who got up my nose by simply swapping from one to the other and back again by the time I was finished they didn't know if they were punched or bored.

:D :D :D :D

Any way on the Loco front I made a jig to correct the crank throw it just a simple mandrel a good fit on the wheel bores then I just off set to the correct throw, locked everything up on the mill and then passed an end mill down through the bore I used an end mill so that it would follow its own path and not try and follow the existing hole. My first attempt I tried to correct just the outliers with a 8.5mm end mill, but this didn't work I was taking to fine skim off It needed a bigger end mill, so I decided to stop pussy footing about open them up 3/8" and do all the wheels.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00598_zps15d6ff91.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00598_zps15d6ff91.jpg.html)

It cam out great slipped a 3/8 bar into the crank hole and the holes for the axles all line up perfect.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC00601_zpsa535a643.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC00601_zpsa535a643.jpg.html)

Just need to pick up a length of 7/16" sliver steel to make new crank pins tomorrow.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on September 01, 2013, 11:42:29 AM: Nicely done Stew! :clap: :clap:

Coming across this type of job. I often wonder if the original machinist has pop marked 'em out, individually. :palm:
Then drilled, on the bench drill...... :loco:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 01, 2013, 05:14:58 PM: Quote from: Stilldrillin on September 01, 2013, 11:42:29 AM
Nicely done Stew! :clap: :clap:

Coming across this type of job. I often wonder if the original machinist has pop marked 'em out, individually. :palm:
Then drilled, on the bench drill...... :loco:

David D

Yes I think that was the case also, from what I've found he was either in a big hurry or he just didn't understand about square-ness, alignment, geometry of parts and how things work together.

But what really annoyed me was my own stupidity for not checking out the throw sooner I must have spent getting on for three weeks trying to get the coupling rods to function, I just assumed that no one would have got them wrong to me it so obvious that it is important to get them all the same, and it not difficult to do its in all the books:- I think I'm on top of it now though.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on September 04, 2013, 03:09:45 AM: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb:

Well assembled the wheels into the frame with the coupling rods and they turn over a dream 2000% better.

I'm one happy bunny.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on September 05, 2013, 05:19:52 PM: Happy bunnies is good......... :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on October 02, 2013, 08:49:07 AM: Well I've not been idle this last months I've been doing battle with getting it running, its been mainly a mater of supreme patience and determination not to give up, not much to show in terms of pictures I've had to go through a big learning curve, making many mistakes on the way but slowly learning, and yes she's a RUNNER, not quite clockwork there are still things that need fixing and tuning but she runs

:nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks: :nrocks:

:ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb:

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: NickG on October 02, 2013, 11:03:04 AM: Nice 1 Stew, well done for persevering, it is infinitely better! Gone from being a shoddily made loco to a very well engineered one now.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on October 02, 2013, 01:13:42 PM: Looking very healthy now, Stew! :clap: :clap: :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: awemawson on October 02, 2013, 03:12:42 PM: :thumbup: Excellent Stew - your persistence has paid off big time. You must feel really good about that :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: tom osselton on October 02, 2013, 06:25:47 PM: Good job!
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on October 02, 2013, 07:23:10 PM: Very smooth! You must be happy with all the work you put into that formerly unhappy rig. The care shows! :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on October 03, 2013, 02:20:01 AM: Thanks Guys

Its been a bit of a struggle to say the least, I think the hardest part has been trying to follow on from someone else you make the assumption that parts have been made right because you know you would have made it correct, one thing I have learnt is to check that every thing is correct otherwise you run into great difficulties.

Not sure what to do now, I've started to get a bit jaded with this project, I think I need to give it a rest and do something else so I think I will put it to one side for a bit and do something else:- Probably another engine build I have a couple drawn up :D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on October 03, 2013, 02:27:09 AM: Quote from: sbwhart on October 03, 2013, 02:20:01 AM
I think I need to give it a rest and do something else so I think I will put it to one side for a bit and do something else:- Probably another engine build I have a couple drawn up.
Stew

Wouldn't blame you Stew!

At least, when you return you can rely on the previous workmanship........ :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Steam Geek on November 22, 2013, 03:34:03 AM: I have recently started to strip an 060 tank engine to refurbish, and reading the ever growing list of challenges you faced I am now questioning my sanity.

I do like your projects, they have some very interesting techniques and have certainly helped me expand my ( limited ) machine capabilities.

Keep omn posting - please!
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on November 22, 2013, 03:37:20 PM: Quote from: Steam Geek on November 22, 2013, 03:34:03 AM
I have recently started to strip an 060 tank engine to refurbish, and reading the ever growing list of challenges you faced I am now questioning my sanity.

I do like your projects, they have some very interesting techniques and have certainly helped me expand my ( limited ) machine capabilities.

Keep omn posting - please!

Thanks for your interest and kind comments Steam Geek.

I've stalled some what with the loco project but hope to pick it up again shortly mainly consolidating what I have already done, I,d really like to get it in steam next year.

Why not post some pics of your loco.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: krv3000 on November 23, 2013, 04:29:51 PM: well dun
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 14, 2014, 02:15:58 AM: I've not been idle since completed my cutter grinder project I've got my loco project going again, one reason it went under the bench was even tough I'd got it running I was far from happy with the result it was very lumpy and uneven what with all the problems I'd had correcting the original builders mistakes I was beginning to despair that it would ever run well, that and I was in need of doing something else as I was beginning to suffer from Project Despondency.

So I've painted some more parts that needed painting, case hardened all the linkages that needed it and polished them up fettled some of the tight spots out, fettled some of the sloppy bits out, replaced all the cap screws with nuts and bolts with spring washer or nylocs:- its amazing how many thing come lose on a model loco, and took some time to get the valve events spot on,

And it know runs like a little sewing machine that Mr Singer would be proud of.

Make sure you have the sound on so you can hear the nice even beat.

I'm now starting off on new ground plumbing in the boiler I've no idea how to do this so it will be very much a trial and error experience.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on April 14, 2014, 03:27:04 AM: That's really sweet Stew! :clap: :clap:

All, (most of?), buggerations sorted now. You're in charge of your own build. :smart:

Good luck! :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: chipenter on April 14, 2014, 03:49:21 AM: I know how you feel I have been rebuilding a Minx that was in a simillar condition , failed a steem test last week leaks in the smoke box and injecter wouldn't work , the inspector was going on about a perfect vacume in the smoke box or it wont steam .
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 14, 2014, 04:46:09 AM: Thanks Dave

Chip

Getting a vacuum in the smoke box is one of my next concerns the door and dart is rubish fit but I was advised to make the door hing a lose fit so that it finds its own level also the smoke box has s lap joint just wher the steam pipe and the blast pipe pass through so it will be difficult to make a seal.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: chipenter on April 14, 2014, 02:55:32 PM: This one has had a replacement boiler that is a bit shorter , so the smoke box was moved back a quarter of a inch four 1\8 holes made a big diference , and blast and feed pipes holes elonggated filled every thing with silicon rubber sealer , replaced the injector and it steamed a lot freer this morning , should pass now I hope .
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: RadRod67 on April 24, 2014, 10:53:54 AM: Nothing to add but very interesting build, thanks for sharing Stew.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 02, 2014, 07:37:53 AM: By popular request here's an update on my Simplex project.

I've been slowly plodding away at it mainly reworking parts to my own satisfaction though over the last month I haven't had much shop time due to family commitments holidays and get togethers etc.

I've been concentrating on getting the smoke box up to scratch, the one supplies was fabricated from steel this is OK in itself but, this one had been lashed together and it would be far from vacuum proof which is a critical requirement for a smoke box if it is to function correct and give a good draft to the grate. So I decided to salvage what I could from the old one and make new where I couldn't the front ring was a GM casting so that could be reused, and I ordered a new smoke box tube from Blackgates and I drop luck with the rear ring as I had a slice of brass that was just the right size.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01081_zps67487752.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01081_zps67487752.jpg.html)

Machine it up using my big four jaw for a tight fit on the boiler

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01083_zpsfef4b9a5.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01083_zpsfef4b9a5.jpg.html)

This is what I had to show for my efforts

A rear ring

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01086_zps759d52da.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01086_zps759d52da.jpg.html)

And a pile of swarfe

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01087_zpsb4787e3a.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01087_zpsb4787e3a.jpg.html)

The front and back ring were silver soldered into the tube, and the assembly set up on the spin indexer and the hole for the chimney bored in.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01090_zps8d390921.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01090_zps8d390921.jpg.html)

Index 180 and drill the holes for the blast pipe and the steam inlet

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01091_zps3c622f95.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01091_zps3c622f95.jpg.html)

I then made and soldered into the smoke box the adaptor for the chimney (no pics)

The chimney sadle itself needed tidying up as it was left as cast so it fitted where it touched, this required the sadle being skimmed up with a fly cutter set at the same diameter as the smoke box tube.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01171_zps3ecee5de.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01171_zps3ecee5de.jpg.html)

Next up were the blast pipe and the inlet connections these were just made as T connections as I'm a bit of a smooth flow type of guy I wanted to make the pipes with a gradual bend.

So I got some pipe with a bend that was about right from the scrap yard, and some elbows from B and Q and cut them to make Y connection along with some screwed bushes.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01173_zps8d30e8bc.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01173_zps8d30e8bc.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01222_zps8064994b.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01222_zps8064994b.jpg.html)

And silver soldered them together, this is what they look like fitted in place

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01223_zpsc064609f.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01223_zpsc064609f.jpg.html)

And here's what things are looking like the moment wit the boiler set up.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01225_zps0493d505.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01225_zps0493d505.jpg.html)

I had the boiler pressure tested to 1 1/2 times working pressure just to make sure everything is OK before I go and spend to much time on plumbing it in, I'm please to sy everything was Ok which it should be as it came with a boiler certificate.

I've still got more work to do on the smoke box it needs drilling to match its saddle and the sinfter valve and blower needs plumbing as will as the wet header.

I'll slowly work from front to back plumbing things in as I go

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: tom osselton on June 02, 2014, 03:09:14 PM: It has come along way I'm glad you didn't keep it benched!
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on June 02, 2014, 04:04:26 PM: Looking good, progressing nicely Stew! :thumbup:

Well done, on the Y connectors........ :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on June 02, 2014, 11:18:13 PM: Looks great! :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 03, 2014, 09:40:09 AM: Thanks for you're interest chaps, I'm planning on getting the bare loco running by the end of summer, ready for a winter paint job.

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: gabrielsmith on June 04, 2014, 11:42:22 AM: Stew
Lurking Tim here taking a break from Horology and enjoying your update on the Simplex.
Ran in steam for four hours last Sunday, ashpan full, smoke box full to brim with ash and clinker, its only
taken four years to get a steam up like that, terrific!! Come and join us ,that will make Seven Simplex
in SCMES, [great] ? Tim the Clockmaker. :D :nrocks: :mmr:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on August 14, 2014, 11:21:28 AM: Hi Chaps thought it was about time I updated you on the Simplex I've been slowly making progress (around fitting in a couple of holidays).

Most of the work has been about tidying things up so that that they look less like a bodge, so her' a few pics of some of the work done.

The running board didn't clear the top of the cylinder so fitted a bracket so that the running board could be lifted up.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01291_zps53ab0fd8.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01291_zps53ab0fd8.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01294_zps4c97a387.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01294_zps4c97a387.jpg.html)

I also split the running board so that it would be easy to get to the valve chest for maintenance with a one piece board the side tanks would have to be removed to get to them.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01293_zps8f3d7de7.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01293_zps8f3d7de7.jpg.html)

This is how they now fit over the cylinders a lot better.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01289_zps941b2d29.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01289_zps941b2d29.jpg.html)

Full shot of the new running board fitted

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01296_zpsa4d11fe9.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01296_zpsa4d11fe9.jpg.html)

Also re worked the smoke box door re-skimmed the face, with the rough arse finished it had it wouldn't have closed air tight, also made a new hinges, dart and closing handles.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01298_zps31b283ae.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01298_zps31b283ae.jpg.html)

Had a problem fitting the left hand side tank, the boiler fire box is a bit lop sided as a result the tank overhung the running boards on that side a fair bit, the fix required a bit of drastic surgery I had to move the side of the tank in 1/2" and fit a false side with space to accommodate the boiler.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01287_zps71ea4784.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01287_zps71ea4784.jpg.html)

I would lose some water storage capacity but there is more than enough available. The fix worked out OK.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01300_zps5b64fa38.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01300_zps5b64fa38.jpg.html)

You can also see the fire box cladding that I've made in the last pic along with the new spectacle plate..

He is a pic of the footplate I still need to do the pipe work.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/DSC01302_zps2d0154e7.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/DSC01302_zps2d0154e7.jpg.html)

I just have the bunker tank to make that should take a couple of days, then its a strip down to do the plumbing, then the 1 1/2 working pressure test and the steam test at the end of the month with luck.

Getting excited :ddb:

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Meldonmech on August 14, 2014, 03:04:15 PM: Hi Stew, what a job you have had with this engine, and the amount of items you have had to repair and remake. It would be more difficult than making from new.

Well done, looking forward to seeing the finished engine.

Good Luck David
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: chipenter on August 14, 2014, 04:27:58 PM: Picked up the drawings and the book for Simplex at a boot fair Sunday for £4.00 , just in case I get the urge to build one .
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 14, 2014, 05:33:27 PM: Final components, are all coming together (almost) nicely Stew! :clap: :clap:

Hope all goes well....... :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on November 10, 2014, 10:37:24 AM: Well after many trials and tribulations I'm finally at the position where I can give her the steam test, the boiler past the 1 1/2 times working pressure test a few weeks ago and now she's ready for the steam test this week end so keep your fingers crossed for me Chaps.

Here's a few photo of her all together I'm not too happy with the paint finish and there is a bit more work on the cosmetics required but she is ready for a bit of coal and a match.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01448_zps18fad581.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01448_zps18fad581.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01449_zps2342a86b.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01449_zps2342a86b.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01451_zps8c2803a1.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01451_zps8c2803a1.jpg.html)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on November 10, 2014, 12:30:57 PM: Hi Stew,
I thought you must have emigrated but I see you have been really very busy. The loco is looking
really great now, :thumbup: just like it should have done when you bought it.

Cheers Dek. :med:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on November 30, 2014, 09:30:02 PM: It looks very fine to me, and I'm wondering if you had a chance to do the steam test? That must be exciting after all of the time and work you've put into this. :bow: :bow:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on December 01, 2014, 02:40:06 AM: The Gremlins are fighting this one to the bitter end.

a week ago I tried her on steam and a few problems emerged.

Prob 1 The regulator need some more packing that was soon sorted.

Prob 2 The pressure gauge failed to show any pressure despite having a darn good fire so I lifted the safety valve that weren't blowing off plenty of steam, so the fires was dropped right rapid.

There was two problems her the safety valve springs are too strong that can be easily sorted. And on inspection of the pressure gauge fitting I'd only gone and solder up the pipe :bang: bit embarrassing but that can be easily sorted.

Prob 3 The steam turret sprang a leak, its one of the few pieces that I've not replaced, so there was nothing for it to strip it down and make a new one, then whilst I was refitting the whistle valve the darn thing when and broke off leaving the broken bit in the turret :doh: Luckily the broken bit came out with a bit of persuasion.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01489_zps902d1aff.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01489_zps902d1aff.jpg.html)

The turret is crack in the area where the paint has stripped off you can't see it but the pressurised steam can find it.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC01487_zpsa9aac46e.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC01487_zpsa9aac46e.jpg.html)

New turret fitted along with a new whistle valve.

Part of the clubs track is being re-laid so its out of action for a couple of weeks I can't wait to give it another go.

Stand by for further updates :D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: chipenter on December 01, 2014, 03:03:42 AM: Oure track shut down end of October , good job to the axle pump is striped down the injector is in the citric acid and the tender has sprung a leak , next track day is new years day so no hurry for you or I .
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on December 01, 2014, 12:18:48 PM: Man, that has been a tough case!
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 14, 2015, 11:33:09 AM: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb:

:ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb: :ddb:

IT Lives------IT Lives------IT Lives--------- Coo-Coo-Coo-Coo

Finally got it through the steam test today, at the fourth attempt most of the problems were mainly due to my own ignorance, I had help from a friend in getting the design of the safety valves right aand they now work perfect.

Still a few minors to sort out but I made four laps of the track the boiler makes loads of steam and the fire seems to get going real well.

Sorry No Video I can't get to the track for a couple of weeks but next time out I'll get a video:- Honest

One well pleased Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on April 14, 2015, 03:20:04 PM: It's a small world, Stew! Only this weekend, I was wondering if I'd missed your finale. :scratch:

Guess not! :thumbup:

Congratulations on your success! With very many more happy laps to come......... :headbang:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on April 14, 2015, 08:45:21 PM: Congratulations!!!! :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :thumbup:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Deko on April 15, 2015, 06:54:58 AM: Grand job Stew, :bow: :bow: :bow: never had any doubts that you would make a brill job. :thumbup:

Cheers Dek.
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on April 15, 2015, 03:59:51 PM: Thanks for your support Guys

I'm still grinning from ear to over there :D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on May 27, 2015, 09:17:32 AM: Well finally got round to posting a video I've had a couple of good running sessions with it now, at first I had a few teething problems bit coming lose, plumbing not quite correct that I just had to deal with.

Plus I was really struggling with how to drive it, I was very nervous of it, in the end I handed it over to an experiance driver at the club and he took it out, his conclusion was not much wrong with that Stew (thanks John), this gave me the confidence to get to grips with it.

I've not had so much fun since my honeymoon

:D :D :D :D :D :D

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: DMIOM on May 27, 2015, 10:45:36 AM: Bravo ! - :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

Quote from: sbwhart on May 27, 2015, 09:17:32 AM
.......I've not had so much fun since my honeymoon.......
do we dare say :worthless:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: tom osselton on May 27, 2015, 03:07:52 PM: Nice build! Should be grinning for quite a while! :beer:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: dsquire on May 27, 2015, 03:09:05 PM: Stew

Glad to see that you are having so much fun. It shure looks a treat. It was fun watching over you shoulder as you fitted all the pices to make it run. :D :D :) :) :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on May 27, 2015, 07:40:17 PM: I want a ride! :clap: :clap: :clap: :beer:
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Meldonmech on May 28, 2015, 04:19:20 AM: Stew, seeing you steaming round the track at speed what a brilliant reward for all the work you've put in over the months.
The numerous problems you have resolved have now provided you with a stunning engine.

Well Done
Cheers David
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: modeldozer on May 28, 2015, 04:39:34 AM: Well done. :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

Cheers :beer:
Abraham
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 21, 2015, 04:34:25 AM: Thanks for your replies Chaps, and your support with all my trials a tribulations I've had along the way.

One reason I chose the Simplex Loco was its size one man with a bit of thought could load it into the back of an estate car, yet it was still large enough to pull a fair few passengers. Completed its a fair weight it beyond me to pick up safely without doing myself an injury, as my old dad use to say:- "that's an Hospital Lift son"

I kept a close eye at how other members at the club handled their loco's and pinched what I thought were the best ideas off them.

First essential bit of equipment is an hydraulic table lift of about 300kg capacity.

I then made a steel carrying frame out of 3/4" box section welded together (this was my first attempt at stick welding)

This is the loco in the frame sitting on the table.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02283_zpsl2lzswym.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02283_zpsl2lzswym.jpg.html)

I can move it around my work shop easily and load it on to a length of dummy track on my bench for maintenance.

The loco is kept in place with it front and rear buffers in holes in the front a rear boards.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02284_zpsx4dgsfiv.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02284_zpsx4dgsfiv.jpg.html)

The rear board is held in the frame with bolts so that it can be removed to roll the Loco out.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02285_zpso7d2lf3y.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02285_zpso7d2lf3y.jpg.html)

The front of the frame has also got a couple of rollers fitted.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02288_zpslj3xmzgg.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02288_zpslj3xmzgg.jpg.html)

To get it into the back of the car a piece of chip board is laid in the back to give a flat service to roll the frame on, the back of this board had a baton screwed across it for the frame to but up against.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02286_zpsn4k3aiqx.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02286_zpsn4k3aiqx.jpg.html)

To load it into the car just trundle the table up to it lift it so that its slightly higher than the back and with the aid of some round wood roll it forward until it tips, onto the rollers on the frame, you can then roll it forward on these rollers until you come up against the baton.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02287_zpso526m1dn.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02287_zpso526m1dn.jpg.html)

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02288_zpslj3xmzgg.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02288_zpslj3xmzgg.jpg.html)

Another baton is then slotted across the back of the frame to stop it sliding back.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02289_zpsddqxlm0l.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02289_zpsddqxlm0l.jpg.html)

And a couple of bungees across the top helps keep every thing secure.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02290_zpsghbjyr93.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02290_zpsghbjyr93.jpg.html)

To unload it at the track, they have an electric lift that was once a Dentist chair of pain, you just back you car up to it adjust to a convenient height and roll the frame out, remove the back board and roll the loco out.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02291_zpswlnmo1xk.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02291_zpswlnmo1xk.jpg.html)

Her she is sitting in all her glory on the track.

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02293_zps0e2ljj0y.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02293_zps0e2ljj0y.jpg.html)

I gave here what I think is a fitting name considering all the problems I had getting her on the track.

GREMLIN

(http://i431.photobucket.com/albums/qq32/sbwhart/Simplex/DSC02292_zpsw3dhba9t.jpg) (http://s431.photobucket.com/user/sbwhart/media/Simplex/DSC02292_zpsw3dhba9t.jpg.html)

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: awemawson on June 21, 2015, 05:56:20 AM: :bow: Extremely nice :bow:

(and rather cunning )
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: PekkaNF on June 21, 2015, 07:25:27 AM: Looks nice. Seems that a lot of though has gone into it.

One thing caught my eye. You might consider something of tie it onto truck of the car better. Does that car has lugs on the for straps? I know one couple that had a load shift on the truck on highway ramp, the car made just a gentle swing and the guy was caught and tried to correct it, the load shifted with a great force and drifted off the road. They miraculously survived, but car was totaled.

I use proper load staps, but I'm very concerned anything heavy on truck of my car. I often use trailer, because it has better load fixing points.

Pekka
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: sbwhart on June 21, 2015, 09:22:08 AM: Thanks for your concern Pekka and for taking the trouble of bringing it to my attention.

I had the self same fault pointed out to be on another forum, so I've ordered some heavy duty ratchet straps, the car has anchor points inside the cargo bay I can connect to.

Thanks again

Stew
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: Stilldrillin on June 22, 2015, 03:51:50 AM: GREMLIN. Perfect name, Stew! :clap:

After all the tantrums and tribulations. I hope you both, have happy times together......... :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Finishing off a 5" Gauge Simplex Loco
Post by: vtsteam on June 22, 2015, 10:04:04 AM: It's a beauty! :bow: :bow: :bow: :clap: :beer: