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About mechanics and lexicon of getting underway

Posted: Sat Jun 09, 2018 10:02 pm
by Finley
Thanks again for replies on the last questions! I'm now wondering how you speak about a very simple aspect. After you pull up your anchor, and you already have steam pressure, what is the lexicon and mechanics of getting underway?

Another question: you bring your boat alongside. You toss out lines fore and aft to those waiting on a rickety jetty. (Again, any special mechanics or terms?) You're not expecting trouble, but then, you never can be too careful. Can the lines on your end be secured in such a way as to get free quickly? Or is a sharp knife in your belt a likely precaution?

Re: About mechanics and lexicon of getting underway

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 2:08 am
by TahoeSteam
Opening the drain cocks/cylinder drains while warming the engine through to drain water out of the cylinders.

Loop you lines around the pilings of the jetty and tie them back on to the cleats on your boat. Untie and haul on board. Simple, fast, and can do it from onboard the boat.

Re: About mechanics and lexicon of getting underway

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 4:18 am
by Finley
Thank you Wesley,

Lots of great stuff on your site. I will keep checking it out.

In ways does the following sound inaccurate?

At light anchor, he glasses the island and environs. He lubricates the engine with a tallow can. He opens the top drain and all drain cocks and levers the handle to pump water into the boiler. He checks the bypass. He opens the main steam valve. He pulls anchor. He cracks the throttle. The engine begins to turn over. He crosses the space at dead slow . . ..

Re: About mechanics and lexicon of getting underway

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 9:12 am
by Mike Cole
hi its close but not quite right, the engine will be turning over to warm though. If you are not able to visit a steamboat in person have you looked at youtube , I know here are a few videos there that explain lighting up and warming the engine. look at
1898 Steam Umpire Launch Consuta - Lighting up

Re: About mechanics and lexicon of getting underway

Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2018 9:49 pm
by Finley
Thanks, Mike. That really clarified it for me.