Adrian Stott wrote: > On Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:47:29 +0200 (CEST), Ann Harvey > <[email protected]> wrote: > >> One on my 'to do' list Steve, but we fear that the tunnel may be the >> issue for us. It's a long time, about 20 years, since we went up the >> Caldon on a hireboat which we were advised then wouldn't make it >> through the tunnel. If (read 'when') I manage to persuade my Cap'n >> to go up there again we'll certainly test the tunnel gauge and go >> through if possible, and then would definately stop at the basin. > > Has there ever been a robust estimate of the cost of hacking back the > roof of the tunnel? > > Adrian > > (who failed to get small Woolwich Phobos through it in the 1980s). > > Adrian Stott > Tel. UK (0)7956-299966 > > > > ------------------------------------
Shirley, all it needs are a few more "robust "attempts at getting through?, a la Mr Canaldrifter :-) The low section is about 40ft in from the upstream end. This has two handrail grooves cut by many past attempts. I really don't know what all the fuss is about, Earnest is hardly very low air draught, it has been through under power, including both turns, without hitting the tunnel roof, or banks, (on the sharp turns at both ends)...and that was before the ballasting party. OK, so the cratch was off, water full and diesel low. I know Bob Wood's Stibbington built Ownerships NB Silkwood failed, but that was because of the upright cabin sides. As others have said, the most difficult bit is avoiding the clear droopey plastic "gauge", which kills your sight lines, for lining up. We also got two hire boats through in the 1970's, but ISTR that was before the water lever was raised, (now lowered again). If people are worried about their outside built in cabin edge handrails, then they could make up some plastic capping. For the Dudley Tunnel, I used some cut in half square plastic guttering down pipe. These still adorn Earnest's interior lower pipe box, making a handy home for the long shaft (which is used infrequently). -- Neil Arlidge Barge Maurice A - will be 1.95m AD WH down. 2.85m WH up. TNC http://www.tuesdaynightclub.co.uk/tour.html
