[Steam-engine] Unqualified chief state boiler inspector

[HISTMACHRY at aol.com]

This type of behavior is not untypical of state inspectors, even when shown 
the facts from the original builder, in polite and professional manner. My 
opinion is they are ignorance on the subject or have forgotten what they once 
knew, wanting to save face ant not admit what they do not know. Also, the good old 
default statement-that they have to sign off on the repairs, so it will 
therefore the work will be done as they require. Period. If the Chief backs up the 
inspectors position, there is nothing you can do. 

This old riveted construction is so foreign to many inspectors especially the 
new ones. Many inspectors got there hands on education in the Navy, then went 
into the state agency. But that's not happening anymore. I can tell many 
stories about inept inspectors, stupid requirements from inspectors, but I really 
think it comes down to the fact that the inspectors and/or the states plane 
old do not understand or trust the construction of the old boilers. 

Also, if you want to run a lap seam boiler, I think that sends up an 
immediate red flag.


Oh I could go on...Robert