Handbook for Steam Locomotive Enginemen (Bri... by British Transport Co Hardback
01. Mär. 2020
Steams up
As a long time steam enthusiast,I admit I know very little about how are they actually worked. I understand the engineering side of steam engines but to drive one is a talent all its own.
This book shows in great detail the process from firing up the engine to driving the engine to do it’s work.
There was a very strict hierarchy in British railways, you started out as a cleaner (usually around 16 years old) and after qualifying, you became a fireman and if you’re lucky enough and work hard enough you would qualify as a driver.
Engineman where are a hardy,tough bunch and although the work was backbreaking and hard, the pay they received was very poor but most were proud to work the engines.
The amount of information they had to learn to become a driver is astounding,even down to knowing, things like what the optimum shape for the fire had to be able to achieve full power where the axles need greasing,how to check the myriad parts and spot when there was a potential problem. Most of the drivers knew there engines better than their wives.
I can recommend having a read, and then decide if you could have made the grade...