Winter signals major progress in Ribble workshops

by

THE ‘Santa Special’ season may be the traditional end-of-year curtain call for the Ribble Steam Railway, but there will be no rest for the line’s workshop team during the January-February closure as further restorations and overhauls continue.

Grant, Ritchie 0-4-0ST No. 61 moves off shed at the Ribble Steam Railway, paired with the Furness Railway Trust’s former North London Railway compartment second, during the line’s gala on September 11. The loco will be lined out over the winter, while Hawthorn Leslie 0-6-0ST Linda (in the background) gets a brick arch fitted. GORDON EDGAR

Two of the railway’s resident Pecketts have been the subject of a considerable amount of work, particularly on the restoration of ‘R4’ 0-4-0ST North Western Gas Board (1999/1941).

The cab and tanks have now been trial-fitted to ensure alignment, and the loco is back on its wheels following the completion of the axleboxes. The piston rods have been ground pending re-fitting, and over the winter the loco’s lubrication system will be upgraded.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

Nearby, former Black Park Colliery 0-4-0ST Hornet (1935/1937) has had all its boiler tubes removed head of its boiler lift, which will take place as soon as workshop space becomes available. The ‘W6 Special’ will be re-wheeled at the same time, with the tyres already turned and axleboxes re-metalled in house.

Read more in the December issue of The RM


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author