The tools shown in this overview can make the removal of frozen brake
shoe keys much easier than trying to beat them out with a hammer. A
hydraulic spreader and a special drift make short work of the removal
task.
Photo by E. Wilde, |
This special drift, for the removal of frozen brake keys, is used in
conjunction with a hydraulic spreader to depress the key spring and
release the key. You can fabricate this tool yourself or Canal Car can
supply you with one.
Photo by Eric Wilde, |
The frozen brake key is removed using the hydraulic spreader, placed
between the brake key and a piece of blocking, against a solid spot on
the brake beam. The spreader is pumped up applying pressure to the key.
The removal drift is placed over the key and given a sharp rap with the
hammer, beating the spring down and thereby releasing the key, which is
popped out by the spreader pressure. This technique works well, even if
the brake key was installed backwards.
Photo by Eric Wilde, |