Main Line Alteration
Smart Work at Frankton Junction

In connection with the improvements and enlargement of the Frankton Junction railway station it was recently necessary to put in a new “scissors” crossing 180 feet in length, and weighing 50 tons, on the main line at the north end of the station.

In order to expedite the work, the “scissors” crossing was built alongside the main line where it was to be put in. Skids were placed under it and the ballast pulled out between the sleepers where the line was to be broken and everything prepared so that the job could be rushed directly the 2.30 p.m. Frankton-Auckland train cleared tablet at 2.40 p.m. A seven-ton steam crane was used to pull the crossing over from the middle, and double purchase blocks were used at each end of the crossing. Directly the track had been broken and cleared for the reception of the crossing it was pulled into position, the actual time taken to join up at each end being 20 minutes. Then the skids and packing had to be removed. This took longer on account of the lifting and awkwardness of the work, nevertheless, it was done within 30 minutes, making 50 minutes in getting the crossing into position so that it could be used. Packing of the sleepers had to be done afterwards, but there was no occasion to hold up the passage of trains and for all practical purposes the job was put through in 50 minutes.

There were 2 gangs engaged consisting of 30 men in charge of Ganger C. Chapman. Mr George Rayson, Inspector of Permanent Way supervised the work.

Mr. W. T. Langbein, Assistant District Engineer in charge of the yard alterations at Frankton Junction, and Mr. R. A. Abel, Signal Inspector, were present. The work went with a swing and the change over reflected credit on the organisation of the responsible officers and the efficiency of the men under them.

To be capable of steady friendship or lasting love, are the two greatest proofs, not only of goodness of heart, but of strength of mind.

William Hazlitt.