On Thursday 12th March the overhaul of 32678 inched another step closer to conclusion with a provisional steam test at Rolvenden.

K&ESR Engineering Manager reported that she was worked up to approximately 80psi.  Whilst the boiler itself appeared okay, two problems were apparent.  The air pump would not work – worn piston rings in the shuttle valve are suspected and will be investigated by Peter Cloake.

The more fundamental problem concerns the regulator, which will not work at all so the dome will need to be removed to find out why.  Sadly this has knocked the chances of 32678 making the May Gala, but we have been here before, notably No.3 in 2006.

It is going to be a case of watch this space.

HN-13/03/2009