Some information about the history, current status and future plans for the Completion of the Overhaul of LNER D49 Morayshire

Why did we choose Llangollen Railway plc?

A number of well recognised locomotive repair contractors were invited to tender. We had a shortlist of 4 all of whom provided very similar indicative costs for the proposed scope of works. Llangollen Railway Plc were chosen on their commitment to a fast turn around and principally by their recent reputation at that time for turning out good work. Another factor was that other high profile work was being undertaken at that time included a major overhaul of Sir Nigel Gresley’s boiler and the New build “Patriot”

What was the scope of works?

The Initial Tendering Process was based on a scope of the likely works required to be able to return the locomotive to operation use on heritage lines. This included  the costs for an initial strip down and full examination of both the locomotive’s mechanical and boiler condition. In short major repairs to the boiler outer firebox wrapper, skirt, crown stays, new smoke box and door surround etc. On the running gear all driving axle boxes and horn guides together with the front bogie axles boxes and central pivot needed refurbishment. The motion in general was known to be well worn and new bushes required. The tender required minor repairs to the tank and repairs to the axle boxes, brasses and horn guides etc.

When did the works start?

December 2016

What was the initial agreed program duration?

Dismantling and inspection to commence December 2016 and loco to be returned after running in at Llangollen March 2018

How did work progress?

Much slower than the originally agreed schedule, however by late 2018 the rolling chassis was reassembled and the boiler work was progressing well. In early January 2019 significant issues with bump clearances were found due to incorrect axle box and horn guide refurbishment. The loco was lifted and the motion, wheel sets and bogie removed for inspection. A detailed inspection was carried out by the new CME and issues found with most of the mechanical works that had already been carried out. To date none of the defective work has been rectified. The boiler work progressed slowly and by January 2020 was about 90% complete. Minor welding repairs were carried out to the tender tank splashers but significant issues with the quality of the works carried out on the horn guides and axle boxes were found and needs to be rectified.

What happened when the contract was terminated and loco evicted from site?

On the 5th February 2020 we were informed by Llangollen that the locomotive and all parts were to be loaded onto transport and a container and it would be returned to the SRPS within 2 weeks at their expense and that they were unable to complete the work, there was no default on the part of SRPS. By the 26th February the locomotive and all its component parts had been moved to a Private site at Locomotive Maintenance Services, Loughborough. 

What is the current status?

 LMS have been contracted to carry out the works required on the boiler to bring it to a steam test.   LMS to manufacture and fit a new smoke box and to carry out the necessary work to the horn guides to enable the locomotive to be a rolling chassis. SRPS are doing the repair work to the axle boxes and motion. All wheel sets have been refurbished and are ready to fit. The tender and all its components are now back at Bo’ness for overhaul and reassembly. All items for the locomotive that will not be fitted at LMS are back at Bo’ness and are being overhauled ready to be refitted. 

What are future plans?

Subject to funds being available it is hoped that the re-wheeled locomotive together with its hydraulically tested boiler will be transported back to Bo’ness to be finished by ourselves. A stretch goal would be to have the loco back in traffic by the end of 2022.

How can you help?

Please support the Appeal to get LNER D49 No. 246 Morayshire back on the rails!

  

Link to No.246 Morayshire General information page

Link to Morayshire Back on the Rails Appeal Leaflet