‘CLEAR RUN TO FINISH’ FOR ‘DUKE’ AS CRANK AXLE ISSUE IS RESOLVED
Duke of Gloucester has a ‘clear run’ to steam again this year, with the resolution of a crank axle problem that could have prevented it returning to the main line.
The BR ‘Pacific’s’ crank axle is to be replaced at South Devon Railway Engineering, the existing stub axle ends having worn (SR499).
The intention had been to produce the new stub axles and big-end crankpin from the same accredited material used for ‘A1’ No. 60163 Tornado – but, said Trevor Tuckley, chairman of the BR Class 8 Steam Locomotive Trust, this would have been expensive and difficult to source. He explained: “We approached the Vehicle Acceptance Body and they had no objections to using the same specification steel as the original – and the SDR has found us a modern-day equivalent that is better than the 1954 standard.”
Had the issue not been resolved, he confirmed, the Class ‘8P’ would not have been able to gain approval for use on the national network – and would have been confined to preserved railways.
The new parts will be produced in South Africa, with an expected lead time of 20 weeks and at an estimated cost of £20,000 – but, said Mr Tuckley: “We’ve cleared the final hurdle.
“We now have a clear run to the finishing line – it just depends on how quickly we can raise the funds.”
The aim is to have the unique 4-6-2 back in steam this September – but the trust faces a shortfall of about £80,000 to meet this target.
At Tyseley Locomotive Works, the engine’s boiler is finished, apart from the installation of the tubes (which are in stock) and it is hoped to have it back on the frames for the centre’s open weekend in June.
The tender frames have also been re-wheeled, following the replacement of their Timken roller bearings, while the new bearings and tyres for the locomotive are to hand and awaiting fitment once the crank axle is assembled. The engine’s Caprotti gearboxes are also being reassembled.
Repairs to the bodywork and the internal refurbishment of the trust’s Mk 2 support coach are complete, although its tyres still require turning.
For details of how to donate or join the Trust, see www.theduke. uk.com or write to Aurora House, Deltic Avenue, Rooksley, Milton Keynes MK13 8LW.