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Donate to the N Class Project!
Since moving into the Traralgon Locomotive Depot our volunteers have been hard at work renovating the space, turning it into a capable locomotive maintenance facility. While these essential upgrades continue, behind the scenes our team have been steadily advancing with the N class frame modifications, and we’re excited to share the latest update.
A huge thank-you goes to every one of our GoFundMe supporters. Thanks to your generosity, nearly $1500 was raised for the N Class Project! These funds directly supported the design, casting, and machining of a seemingly modest yet absolutely crucial component: the Handbrake Shaft Bracket.
So… what exactly is a Handbrake Shaft Bracket?
This bracket holds a shaft that translates the vertical, rotational movement of the handbrake to a perpendicular rotational movement that pulls the locomotive brakes on - to put it simply, the bracket holds a shaft that turns the handbrake’s movement into an action that applies the brakes.
Here the bracket can be seen temporarily fitted to the locomotive frame. The bracket will be fitted to the frame with machined fitted bolts when it's time for permanent installation.
The manufacture of this bracket taught us a lot about modern design and manufacturing, and we used a combination of old and new techniques to bring a drawing made over a century ago to life in the 21st century.
How We Made It
Using the original Victorian Railways drawings, we worked with Advanced Rail in NSW to create a modern 3D CAD model and fresh engineering drawings. These were sent to IXL Metal Castings in Geelong, where a new pattern was produced and the bracket cast in steel. Once the casting was complete, machining began, and before long we were able to collect the finished bracket and test-fit it to the locomotive frame - an exciting milestone for the project.
The original Victorian Railways drawing for the bracket. Source: Public Record Office Victoria, VPRS 3426/P0005, N. 89.
The 3D CAD Model
The final product!
What’s Next?
With this casting now in our hands, the final stages of the frame modifications can proceed. Upcoming work includes sandblasting the entire frame and hot-riveting key components such as the frame extension stiffening plates and drag box. We’ll be sharing more details as these steps are completed, so keep an eye out for future updates!
As we continue to grow, we’ll be shifting our fundraising from GoFundMe to PayPal Donations. This new platform will allow you - our supporters - to choose exactly where your contributions go. We’re excited to roll out some new targeted fundraising campaigns in the coming months.
Every contribution, big or small, brings N441, Victoria’s newest steam locomotive, one step closer to reality. Your support has carried us this far, and we extend our heartfelt thanks. Stay tuned for more progress soon!
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