Major step forward for Smith Rodley

This afternoon, the restoration of the 5 ton capacity Smith Rodley steam crane in the Shildon workshops took a big step forward when Richard & Johnny fitted the jib for the first time. It's only on for a trial basis, whilst we measure up for new ropes, check alignment etc, but it does look good - as well as giving us an idea of the size of the completed item. Here, with the jib suspended from the gantry crane and the other end on the fork lift truck, Johnny helps to align the jib whilst Richard tweaks the other end. Soon afterwards, all is lined up and the locating pins put in. Richard & Johnny take the strop off the end of the jib and rest the middle of it on some sleeper packing.

Long isn't it? Painting next...