Safe Operation Instructions for 1:13.7 scale Decauville Type 1 0-4-0T
The information below is found in the Decauville Owner’s Manual, however, we are again reiterating several key points to communicate the successful firing and operation of your locomotive. Note this loco is small in overall size and requires paying careful attention.
Lighting up
Be sure the throttle is closed and the Johnson bar is in neutral. Open the smokebox door and slightly open the gas valve. Using a stick lighter bring the flame to the smokebox door and light the gas. The burner should light and pop back into the flue. Be sure the fire is not in the smokebox! Check the flame and make sure it is a strong blue flame. If yellow or green, adjust the air collar on the burner flange in the cab.
IMPORTANT
- Fire should be at the lowest possible setting while maintaining steam
- Ensure the fire is in the flue and NOT the smokebox
If fire is not in the flue and remains in smokebox:
- Check the jets are clean, clean jets if necessary
- Burner must be straight and parallel to the flue!
Once the pressure is up to 50-60psi the safety valve should lift and you are ready to run and clear the cylinders. Reverse works best for this as the boiler surges water away from the throttle takeoff. Water and oil will eject from the chimney, a cloth or towel will help deflect and keep the loco clean. Once the cylinders are warm and cleared of condensate you are ready to set the locomotive off onto the main line.
Adjust the burner level to suit the running conditions and keep as low as possible while maintaining the needed steam supply. Excessive blowing of the safety is wasting fuel and water and shortens the run time.Maintain the boiler level using an optional Goodall Valve. Never allow the water level to get below the top of the burner as that exposes the flue from water inside the boiler.
Additional information
Accucraft is currently preparing a kit featuring additional insulation for installation in the smokebox and gas tank. The kit will be available at no charge to Decauville owners in three weeks.
And the post used for communicating replacement fuel tanks:
For owners of our recently delivered 7/8ths scale Decauville Type 1 0-4-0T, we will soon make available a retrofit slimmer, fully insulated butane gas tank for your loco. If you require a replacement tank please contact your dealer or us directly.
At present we're mailing out the retrofit insulation kits for these locomotives. Decauville owners should be receiving theirs shortly.
