Boiler returns for Shillingstone Yugoslavian-built ‘USA tank’
PROJECT 62, the group restoring Yugoslavian-built class 62 0-6-0T Nos. 30075 and 30076 at the North Dorset Railway at Shillingstone, passed a major milestone on September 7 when the overhauled boiler of No. 30075 was returned from Henstridge.
With new plate installed, along with 150 new tubes, the boiler had passed a hydraulic test with the inspector, who gave permission for it to be installed in the frames before a further hydraulic test and the final steam tests are carried out, prior to which the boiler and pipework fittings will be reinstalled. During the overhaul it was found that the regulator had seized and required much time, muscle, and money to free up and recondition.
The rolling chassis has started to be prepared, with insulation and cladding fitted to the cylinders, new brake blocks purchased, and the bunker lifted back onto the frames. The latter, along with some of the dome covers and cladding, have already received primer and coats of the green in which the No. 30075 will return.