CITY OF SHANGHAI

Evening Post, Volume CXXIV, Issue 27, 31 July 1937, Page 11

CITY OF SHANGHAI

ARRIVAL AT AUCKLAND

REPAIR JOB FOR WELLINGTON

(By Telegraph— i'ress. Association.)

AUCKLAND, This Day

A.ftcr drifting helplassly at the mercy of wind and seas oil' a dangerous Pacific atoll while the crew struggled for three days to carry but 'repairs in the tunnel shaft and being nursed on a long ocean voyage, the City of Shanghai arrived at Auckland this morning from New York. -

The mishap occurred on July 10 while the City of Shanghai was steaming in a moderate sea. The propeller shaft suddenly began to vibrate violently. The engines were immediately shut oil and the engineers toiled night and day. until repairs were effected under great difficulties. The propeller was put in condition to complete the voyage and the fact that the vessel was successful in limping into port, although three weeks behind schedule, was evidence of a workmanlike job.

During repairs the vessel drifted crabwise, rolling and shipping, occasional seas, and only 52 miles off some treacherous tropical islands. The rudder was almost useless and there were no staysails on board which could be rigged.

"If the shaft had gone again it would have smashed through the ship's side," said a member of the crew.

Last Sunday the City of 'Shanghai was overtaken by the City of Glasgow and .she was shepherded by her for the l-emaindcr of the voyage to Auckland. The ..-average speed was from 2\ to 4A knots.

Repairs to the damaged vessel will be effected at Wellington.