Work Party reports

One of 'Friends of President's main objectives is to support the museum with maintenance of the boats. This is partly done in working parties at the museum. These reports show major work done in the 2001 / 2002 refit.

Although the refit is now complete - work continues ( it never stops with old boats such as these ). So if anyone would like to help they are most welcome. Click on contacts to find out more.

Below and on other pages listed on the left you will find more photographs and information.

January 2001

Two work parties were held in January 2001 to prepare President for the repairs. On 20^th January the cloths, coal and hold contents were removed. In addition the forward cabin was prepared for removal

On 23^rd January the cabin top, boiler and engine were removed, together with the ballast.

Restoration works

At the committee meeting held in January 2001, Dave Stott presented a detailed plan of the works to be carried out over the next few months. Here is a summary of the work to be undertaken:-

Hull & Cabin

• The rear section of the hull, from the front of the cabin to the stern, will be fully renovated to include a new swim area.

• A new cabin will be made. Particular attention will be given to the design of the front section to ensure that it can easily be removed so as to allow the boiler to be taken out as and when required.

• The boiler will be moved up to 12" forward to allow easier access for enginemen to the fire and fire tubes.

• Our new engine is wider than the existing one, but is however shallower. As a consequence it will not be possible to use the door from the back cabin to the engine room. The door will therefore be removed and replaced with a hinged upper panel to enable the driver to see the steerers actions. This is essential during difficult manoeuvres and putting on cross straps.

Boiler

• The boiler is due for it’s second five-year inspection.

• All lagging must be removed and the seams ultrasonically tested.

• The boiler will be washed out and given a full chemical clean.

• Completely re-pipe the whole engine room.

• Fit new (150 p.s.i) safety valve springs.