Mill Maintenance
MILL MAINTENANCE
Lifting the runner stone
Before the runner stone can be lifted, the hopper, horse, shoe and the quant with the stone-nut must be removed. A large crowbar can then be carefully used to lift the runner stone slightly and a wooden wedge inserted. This can be repeated on the other side of the stone. It is a difficult process due to restricted space. With the use of the manyheight (placed on a strong or reinforced part of the floor) and crowbar, larger wedges can be inserted and the stone raised. If the wedges on either side are roughly diametrically opposite, another wedge can be inserted at the rear by tilting the stone with somebody’s weight. Eventually the stone should be raised high enough so that two long pieces of timber can be put under the stone, clearing the mace and rynde.
By placing a pair of rollers between the timber and runner stone, the stone can be rolled out toward the crowntree. Before pulling the stone onto its edge, a piece of boarding should be placed over the crowntree, to prevent damage from the stone, as well as a block against the tail vat. By winding a thick rope around the wind-shaft, over the far side and under the runner stone to a heavy bar above the eye of the runner stone, the stone can gradually be lifted, using the sails as levers to wind the rope onto the wind-shaft. Before lifting the stone, a soft rag should be inserted between the rope and sharp corners of the stone, to prevent the rope being cut. To prevent the stone inadvertently rolling sideways during the lifting process, two people with large wedges should follow the stone up into its vertical position. Once vertical, the stone should be wedged to avoid it rolling sideways and tied securely to the tail wheel.
At no time should anyone stand under the runner stone in case of rope failure.
When putting the rollers in position under the runner stone, be careful not to get your fingers trapped – always hold the rollers by the ends.
Replacing the stone is the reverse of lifting, but make sure the large rope is long enough to allow the stone fully back into position.
