A 35 ton All Terrain Crane was hired in for some the heavy lifting . The crane lowered its hook straight through the Perspex roof of the shed breaking it to enable the removal of the brake wheel segments from inside, to the grass in front of the mill. The temporary cap was lifted off the mill, followed by the red supporting band. Then the crane lifted the main shaft up and out of the mill and lowered it to the ground. Work on the mainshaft was done at ground level to ensure it would correctly align with the curb before re-positioning both back into the mill using the crane. With the brake wheel segments removed, the space in the shed allowed for the assembly of the heavy wooden framework support for the cap machinery and running gear. The brake wheel segments were assembled in position on the windshaft, complete with the canister ready to take the stocks. The complete assembly is having final adjustments and will be lifted intact from the shed to the mill at a later date. The stocks are on site and are being shaped and prepared, the 120 shutters for the sails are being covered in canvas prior to linseed oiling and painting. Anne Grand - Saturday 30th August 2008 |