Locomotive Engine Running and Management

by Angus Sinclair

OILING THE VALVES WHEN THE THROTTLE IS DISCONNECTED.

The greatest difficulty will be experienced in oiling the valves, unless the steam-chests are provided with the automatic feeders, which work with steam on.

If he is running on an undulatory road, an engineer can oil the valves from the cab, by letting the steam down at the top of a hill, and running down at a high speed. It can also generally be done on a level track, by letting the fire burn low, getting up the best speed the engine will attain, then putting the feed full on. As the steam drops suddenly, put the reverse-lever in full motion; and the chances are, that the valves can be oiled.