Tornado

Very good. Dashed off in a hurry on my phone.


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It looks like a healthy dose of realism has just hit the A1SLT.

 

The first row of superheater elements were fitted within Tornado’s boiler last week, the rest being installed today and tomorrow. The elements undergo a hydraulic test before fitment:

 

At Darlington Locomotive Works, the safety valve pads have been machined to restore the finish and improve reliability of the jointing face:

 

I am beginning to wonder if a British boiler might have been a better bet

 

Please explain how a British built boiler to the same design would have made any difference to the issues encountered.

 

It was only a wonder.

 

Its a wonder one got built from scratch, to a designated price in the first place.....

 

Paintpot is out!!!!

 

Because it's not foreign, obviously.

And the iron would come from our own fair hills, extracted by skilled British artisans using British equipment. Oh, wait ...

 

From the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust:

In a huge milestone for this overhaul, Tornado’s frames were this week lifted to receive the driving wheel sets. We are pleased to report that the process went smoothly and the driving wheels are now in place.

 

Thanks to those posters for these pictures and details of the progress - much appreciated.

 

Saw a tweet from Graeme Bunker James with the sad news that former DB Cargo Traction Inspector Gareth Jones has passed away. Gareth had many great runs on Tornado and other locomotives including the 90mph runs on Bittern in 2013.

 

A picture showing the complete boiler ready to leave to be reunited with frames:
(Photo by Nik Procter).

 

Any news?

 

The annual convention is held this Saturday I believe. Maybe we might hear something this weekend.

 

Yes aware of that as last open day cancelled.
Been no news since boiler was loaded onto lorry at Darlington. Must be well on with reassembly now or are there more problems. Certainly hope not

 

To be fair, that was only 17 days ago. Maybe give them a chance?

 

How long ago did Tornado last pull a train?