CHAPTER XIV. 



OPERATING AND HANDLING OF THE 

 ENGINE. 



Reference has already been made to the care of 

 the boiler, and the engine proper, while at work 

 requires as close attention and careful handling. The 

 correct water level, uniform fire and constant steam 

 pressure are to be maintained, as before stated, and, 

 in addition to this, the engine, if on the road, is to 

 be guided and kept clear of stumps and like obsta- 

 cles. Hills are to be planned for and the fire and 

 water arranged and regulated accordingly. The 

 temperature in which a traction engine works varies 

 from the heat of the southern summer to the intense 

 cold of the northern winter, and these facts must be 

 taken into account in running the machine and 

 keeping it in order. 



STARTING THE ENGINE. 



Before starting the engine, open the cylinder cocks 

 and let a little steam into the cylinder by opening the 

 throttle slightly; wait until the steam has had time 

 to heat the cylinder and drive out the water from the 

 condensed steam which always forms when the cylin- 

 der is cold. This may form in large quantities, and if 

 it gets in between the cylinder head and the piston, its 



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