Latest locomotive project arrives at ‘Workshop X’

A 2ft gauge 0-10-0T Orenstein & Koppel (works number 10956) with Luttermöller articulation to the outer axles, arrived at ‘Workshop X’ for restoration on March 29. The loco has been purchased by Matt Dolby from Preston Services in Kent.

The locomotive was one of several of the type which Preston Services have had for sale. Four of the type (works numbers 10956, 10957, 12470 and 13101) were imported in 2006, joining 11309/1927 which had arrived previously. They came from the Ingenio San Martin del Tabacal sugar mill in Argentina and superficially appear to be 2-6-2Ts but have a flexible geared drive on the leading and trailing wheels, making all axles powered and thus actually 0-10-0Ts. This articulation system was developed during the First World War by O&K chief engineer, Gustav Luttermöller.

Having stood in open storage for at least 17 years, with the wheels/motion now seized, the loco requires extensive restoration. Dismantling has already commenced.