This shot is on the lower floor of the engine house and it is by the side of the cylinder (in this case it is an 80" cylinder). The valve gear is where the chap in charge of the engine would stand to get the engine started, in a process of opening valves to set the engine working he would set timings and settings to things going. Once the engine is in motion he can leave his position here as the valve gear will self perpetuate the cycles by a series of levers attached to the moving parts, that automatically open and close valves to maintain the stroke of the engine. The valve gear here does not work at present, but is kept fully covered in grease until such time that restoration may one day take place.

Bygone Era

This image is available to purchase and is part of our Bygone Era Stock Photos Collection.