Introduction:
Hello everyone!
I just wanted to give an update in these uncertain times.
Obviously work at the Rolvenden shed has halted for the duration of the lockdown, so we haven’t got as much completed as we would have liked. However, we’d still like to keep you updated on what we got done before the lockdown.
Over the last few months, we were working on getting the Terrier 32678 ‘Knowle,’ and our P Class 753 back in shape as soon as possible. I’m guessing that we hope to continue that once it is safe to do so, but for now we can only comment on what we’ve completed so far. So here is the most we can tell you about the state of the locos at present.
Locomotives:
WD USA Class 0-6-0T 30065 ‘Maunsell’- Overhaul on this local continues. The brake rigging has been test fitted and returned to storage. Additionally, a new vertical stretcher has recently been fitted and painted.
Hunslet Austerity Class 0-6-0PT 25 ‘Northiam’- This loco remained in service before lockdown. A new brick arch was recently fitted to allow for better steaming.
WD USA Class 0-6-0T 300 ‘Major-General Frank Ross’ (Formerly DS238 ‘Wainwright’)- Running maintenance was carried out throughout the period. The firebox was reported to be leaking, and later repaired.
GWR 1600 Class 0-6-0PT 1638- front axle boxes repaired,
NSB 21C Class 2-6-0 376 ‘Norwegian’- Out of service at the end of its boiler ticket.
LB&SCR A1X Class 0-6-0T 32678 ‘Knowle’- We’ve carried on painting this loco extensively, with at least three new coats across most of the frames and motion. The loco recently received a new bunker from the Isle of Wight, which has been fitted and painted. The right hand air pump has been removed, while components to the reverser have been attached again. The boiler has also been subject to a steam test, in advance of its return. We had hoped to get ‘Knowle’ running in time for the summer season, but since we don’t know if there will even be a summer season now, the loco’s return date depends on many factors..
LB&SCR A1X Class 0-6-0T 32670 ‘Bodiam’- Out of service.
Manning Wardle O Class 0-6-0T 14 ‘Charwelton’- Overhaul remains in progress.
SE&CR P Class 0-6-0T 753- We’ve really stepped up trying to get this loco back in steam. We’ve cleaned the sand boxes, axle boxes and brake hangers. We’ve also spent a few weeks spiriting and painting the boiler, after an extensive cleaning.
Videos:
A video will be shared to the Saturday Gang channel soon covering the progress that was being made on the videos and where we hope things will go once things are up and running again.
Conclusion:
So that covers the last four months (with only really two of actual work!). Check out our YouTube channel and FaceBook page below for any further updates. Best wishes from the Saturday Gang. Stay safe, everyone!
