American 4wBE arrives at Steeple Grange

A further battery-electric locomotive arrived at Steeple Grange Light Railway (SGLR) on November 30. Owned by a SGLR member, it actually returned after a 10-year absence but still requires work to return it to operation. Named Greensburg, the 4wBE serial number 2368 was built in 1954 by the Greensburg Machine Company, Greensburg, Pennsylvania, USA. It was brought to Britain in 1986 by a subsidiary of Costain and is understood to be the only Greensburg locomotive to leave the Americas.

On acquisition by its present owner the chassis, transmission, motor and wheelsets were worn and corroded, but restorable, however the suspension, brakes, wiring, battery box and controller were either missing or beyond repair. Remaining work includes installing a new electrical system and modern disc brakes.

Progress on another batteryelectric loco at SGLR has seen Clayton locomotive works number 5942B regauged from 24in to 18ins. This was one of two similar locos purchased a year ago and while a ‘convertible’ machine, moving the wheels proved very challenging. Full restoration of what is now SGLR No. 17 is progressing.

CHRIS PARRY/FF&WHR Garratt K1 worked the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway’s traditional end of year ‘Cold Turkey’ train for railway personnel on December 29. It is pictured, in less than perfect Welsh Highland weather, running through the loop at Hafod y Llyn on the return trip to Porthmadog.