Despite other things taking priority, progress is being made. We are supposed to have all the parts now.
All the bodywork has got its first coat of paint (even though painting is not my forte), and is now being added to the Lyka. This picture shows the front panel in place, and the seat perched over the boiler. We can now see what it might look like. What isn't shown is the pipework, which is being "dry" assembled. Like some others, I was confused by STW's decision to change the thread on the flare fittings, making the adapters incompatible with the pipe fittings. Flare fittings are supposed to be the best for pressurised steam. A careful look at the front of the Lyka shows part of the stainless steel A-frame tow-bar. This hasn't been tested yet; the car had to visit the garage after a minor collision. I think a realistic test relies on the Lyka having representative mass distribution.
A side view of the Lyka shows the burner in place at the back. The fuel will be diesel, to be held in a tank under the driver's feet. I am pretending that the smoke hood and water tanks are fitted. The smoke hood provides a set of problems because of pipes and stays getting in the way of putting it on tidily. The tanks have waited for me to re-route the blow-down valve which was trying to occupy the same space.
My to-do list is growing and includes:
- finish putting the body panels and seat in place (including smoke hood fitting);
- connect the burner, attach its wicker basket;
- finish the pipe work;
- test the tow bar;
- test the steam system;
- bleed the brakes again;
- check the paintwork, and add yellow lines;
- Add insulation as recommended by STW;
- arrange registration for use on the public highway;
- arrange insurance.
Has anyone thought about how to add extra seats?
