CHAPTER II. 

 THE FEED WATER. 



, HE feed water demands the constant watch- 

 fulness of the engineer. It is his first and 

 most important duty to know that there is 

 sufficient water in the boiler at all times. If 

 he relaxes his attention to it for even a short 

 interval, disastrous results are likely to 

 follow. A modern traction engine is usually 

 fitted with two separate and independent means of feeding 

 water to the boiler. By this arrangement, if the boiler feeder 

 in use be disabled at any time, the other may be put to 

 work without delay. These feeders should receive close 

 attention and each be in condition to work at a moment's 

 notice. If either fails to work properly at any time, it 

 should be repaired immediately. It is essential to use the 

 cleanest water obtainable, as dirty water always causes 

 trouble. It is a good plan to strain the water as it passes 

 into the mounted tank, by placing a cotton grain sack in 

 the hole so that it extends to the bottom of the tank. For 

 this purpose a cheap sack of coarse open texture is the best. 

 The mouth of the bag can be turned over the rim around 

 the hole and tied with a string or strap, but a better 

 way is to have a hoop that just fits over the bag. It is 



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