The Locomotive Of Today

The Tender, Brakes, etc. : Springs, Coupltng, etc. 161 they would be if between them and below the tanks. The frames are double, the outer ones carrying the axle box guides being* the deepest, both frames run the entire length of the tender between buffer beams ; stays between them strengthen the structure, as well as form convenient places for attachment of brake-hanger brackets, etc. The springs are above the axle boxes, and are fitted at each end with rubber blocks or washers in cylindrical brackets cold rivetted to the outer frames, these rubbers greatly lengthen the life of the springs as they relieve them from the sudden shocks as the wheels pass crossings or points. As the wheel base is comparitively short no side play beyond a slack working fit of the axle boxes in the guides is allowed; the axle boxes are usually of cast iron with brasses fitted to take the bearings. The method of coupling the tender to the engine varies. A common one has two buffers placed at the front end and bearing against the back plate of the engine when it is coupled, to steady both eng'ine and tender in running. A large draw bar in the centre with an eye at each end for a pin, and two smaller bars for emergency, one at either side, form the attachment, an initial compression being given to the buffers in coupling up to the engine. More recent examples, how- ever, depend solely on one strong central connection whereby it is contended the wear of the wheel flanges is diminished, and easier transit of curves secured. The buffers at the rear end of the tender are similar to those upon the front of the engine, as are the draw hooks and couplings, which have been already described. Footsteps are provided at each end so that the men may mount to the cab at one end and to the trailing buffer beam footplate at the other to attend to the tail lamps or couplings as may be necessary. The water tank is built up of ^-in. plates well stiffened with angle irons rivetted to them, both at the corners for the attachment of the other plates and also at various parts of the structure. The sides are stayed together by plates which extend completely across and form washplates, large holes being cut through them of sufficient diameter to allow the water to circulate freely, and to permit of the men passing when making and repairing the tanks. Longitudinal wash- plates are also fitted in some cases, these are especially necessary when the tender is running upon lines which abound in sharp curves, as they help to keep the water from accumulating at the outer side of the curve by centrifugal force and from throwing an undue weight upon the springs and bearings at that side. 11