No.3

The security of the RH piston has recently been inspected in the light of the problems that afflicted the LH one.  There had been a persistent leak on the cylinder lubricator which has now been repaired

No.32678

A boiler examination was carried out on 6th March.  Thankfully there is very little work to do; 20 or so rivets have corroded heads that will need to be built up with weld, plus some studding work.  Overall the boiler was found to be in very good condition with the barrel plates 12-13mm thick (half an inch in old money)

The boiler inspector has agreed that the failed tube may be replaced and we proceed on a “see what happens” basis.  Whilst we might not get significant longevity from this batch, it is better to get something out of them rather than expose the boiler to another retube at this stage.

The next stage is to plan the work necessary to get the engine back in traffic; once the boiler work has been carried out, hydraulic and steam tests will be arranged.

Other work includes a valve and piston examination plus a lift to inspect the axleboxes.

“TTT is mindful of the necessity of 32678 being returned to traffic as soon as is reasonably practical, bearing in mind that the “birdcage” project is nearing completion” commented Trustee Hugh Nightingale. “Small engines can never be a priority on longer heritage railways such as the Kent & East Sussex but nevertheless, substantial charter and filming interest is expected to be generated by the combination both on, and possibly off the railway.  The K&ES still owe locomotive visits to Bluebell, Bressingham and the Isle of Wight.  It is expected that further enquiries will be received, principally from other Southern lines

HN-20/03/2008