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GOOSE BRAKES AND TEST RUN MARCH 7, 2009

BRAKE INSTALLATION

BRAKES RELEASED - The pivot arm drops down under its own weight and leaves a gap.  The actual pivot is 2 inches above the floor.  The arm is 3/4 inch plywood.

BRAKES APPLIED - With the top lever pulled up and back, the L shaped piece pivots clockwise and makes contact with the wheel.

COMPLETE - There is a guide located below the handle.  Also, the motor's electric control switch has been relocated to an easy-to-reach spot in the driver's window.

DRIVE MECHANISM - A lever at the front of the cab roof is pulled back, pushing the motor assembly back, tightening the pulley against the belt, engaging the belt.

TEST DRIVE

DERAILMENT - on the second lap, the Goose derailed on a sharp curve.  It's possible these curves are too sharp for this long-wheelbased piece of equipment.

READY FOR A SPIN - The goose is unloaded from the trailer and sits on the track, ready to run around the loop for the first time.  Today it's just me.

PULLING A TRAILER - with the help of a new drawbar, the Goose can now pull the little flatcar we were riding a few days ago.

COVERED UP FOR THE NIGHT - a new 6x8 foot tarp fits nicely on the Goose, and the bungee cords keep it nice and snug.

WEIGHTLIFTING - The Goose derailed on a tight curve and I have to lift it back onto the track.  We're planning a track realignment with wider curves.

RIDING AND SMILING - The next day, I took her for another spin while Charlotte took pictures.  Later she rode on the flatcar.