Axle bands. For two carriages, had to make four of these. These are 3/8" strap that was v-grooved and heated to cherry red then bent to 90 degrees. The top piece will later be welded in to make the bands an exact (and very tight) fit between the cheeks and axles. 12 separate parts to make the four bands!
Also had to make two of these:
These go between the trail and the axle. Same principle as the other axle bands, except this has a T-piece that has to be welded on. Again, all will be tacked and final welded to ensure the axle is tight on the cheeks!
This is one of the carriages with its machined rondelles in place. Turned bolt heads in place. Irons ready to be fitted/welded. And the rear rondelles fitted with their recoil lugs. A lot of machining and blacksmithing this weekend.
Later, I am going to try and see if I can find some more pictures of old plants and old manufacturing. Amazingly, there is not a lot out that I've initially found. I did find that Watervliet Arsenal Museum is undergoing a major refurbishment and is likely to re-open to the public. That's good news! Lots of history there.
More later,
Cheers,
Sirhr
