Side view of the later type radiator steam valve. | |
Top view of the valve showing the spring-loaded outlet ball. | |
Steam valve housing. The original bellows mechanism required this lid to be vented to the atmosphere whereas the later, ball valve type, needs a sealed lid. This picture shows the vent holes after the vents holes have been soldered up. | |
After timing the ignition the radiator was temporarily installed. The water pipes were attached to the engine which was then filled with a weak solution of antifreeze and hot water - no leaks evident. The ignition was switched on and the fuel pumps primed the carburettor - no leaks evident. The starter button was press and after about one revolution the engine fired but did not start. The hand throttle was opened slightly and a second attempt produced the same result. With slightly more hand throttle applied the engine fired immediately and settled to a steady tick-over of about 800rpm with maximum oil pressure. There are three minor adjustments to be made before the bodywork is re-fitted:- 1) one banjo connection in the 'V' is leaking oil 2) one petrol pipe union is leaking 3) the clutch adjustment needs refining. |