How it works

In each book there are around 14 pages of simple diagrams and explanations.  They are there to provide some information on how things work but are not necessary to enjoy or understand the story.  They are spread through the book at the end of the chapter where they are most relevant.  The intention is to add to the interest and answer questions.  Occasionally a photograph is used to make something more easy to understand.

Book 1 the things explained are:  Why railways do not have steep hills. How a spirit level works and how one is used to make the track level.  How track is constructed, including how the joints allow the rails to expand on hot days.  How the wheels keep the train on the tracks.  Couplings and buffers.  How the boiler makes the steam.  How the steam is used to drive pistons and turn the wheels to pull a train.  At the end of the book is a glossary of special words.

Book 2 topics covered are:  The boiler with its safety valves and water gauge.  Wheel arrangements for locomotives.  Points.  Turntables.  Ball bearings.  Turning loop.  Piston rings.  Valves to control the cylinders.  Glossary.

Book 3 topics are:  Simple brakes.  Automatic or fail-safe brakes.  Gears and gear ratios.  Pressure gauge.  Drive belts.  Governor.  Pistons, cylinders and eccentrics.  Expanding steam to save coal.