34046 Braunton

Main line test runs have been delayed by additional work required on the tender springs before running in the new tender can commence at the WSR.
http://www.wsr.org.uk/cgi-bin/gallery8a.cgi?h=Snapshot&p=2011/05/150511_1_pni

David

 

she iz going to have mainline test runs in the next few weeks, then she will be ready to haul the Return Pompey Pasific now sceduled on saturday 10th september

 

As of yesterday Braunton was still in Minehead shed having work done on the pipes under the cab which I think were part of the air braking system. Her new tender is still outside of the shed on jacks as the springs are still to be re-fitted. I believe the tender also needs work to brake cylinders.

 

More to the point it's scheduled to haul the Cathedrals Express to Weymouth on 9th July. That seems a bit tight now - is there any chance it will make it?

 

Latest official news is that there are no current plans for mainline test runs and no booked mainline charters. A detailed update for publication is expected soon...

Steve

 

No chance now, Tangmere has been named as the replacement for the 9th. One Bulleid for another, not a bad swap.

 

Thanks for the update Steve. The length of time on the boiler certificate is gradually eroding away. <BJ>

 

It will need a lot of money to get 850 back on the mainline. Don't hold your breath.

 

Mmmm.............. We don't have a good history of trips with 34067. Lets hope our luck changes with this one!

 

Its going to need another overhaul at this rate

 

Braunton hauled a WSR test train on 18th August,2008. That's nearly three years ago. <BJ>

 

IIRC, Braunton herself is quite sound. It's her tender that is giving trouble passing through the various mainline certification "hoops". She has given good service on the WSR, with no more teething troubles than any other major restoration. Is that fair comment?

I wish the best of luck and success to team looking after her. I'm really looking forward to seeing her running with Tangmere on The Atlantic Coast Express in September, especially the section from Exeter to Okehampton.

 

What kind of mileage has Braunton achieved on the WSR I wonder ?

 

An update has been posted on the WSR unofficial website:

Humphrey Davies from Locomotive 34046 Ltd has kindly provided an update on progress. "The current problems preventing the running of the locomotive [SR 4-6-2 no 34046 Braunton] have been centered around snagging requirements as one might expect following major changes, and problems associated with the new tender. The locomotive will be completed shortly with air brake fitting, and once the OTMR & TPWS installations have been completed by contractors. Testing of these systems can progress when the tender is complete and coupled. The tender has had some major work requirements. The tender springs as supplied did not meet the specification and had to be returned to the supplier for correction at the suppliers expense. These are expected to be returned before the end of June. The brake cylinders supplied and installed were not fit for use and we have had to source replacements from India. By kind permission of the owner of Taw Valley we have been able to use two new spare cylinders from that loco which will be replaced when the cylinders on order from India arrive in approx six weeks time. With some items being re worked by West Somerset Restoration plus the efforts of the volunteers and staff at Minehead we anticipate the locomotive should be ready for the [WSR's] gold timetable. Air brake testing will still need to be carried out. Main line operations depend on a series of further commissioning tests being successful and we will keep you advised of progress."

 

On the Unofficial WSR site there is a picture of 34046 next to Minehead Shed paired with her new tender which is now lined out. Looking very nice. According to the caption some test runs are due to take place it says in the next few days (but the picture was taken on Tuesday) so it may not be far off. Also says she will then enter service in 2 weeks time.

Mainline return seems closer now. Can't wait to see her back.

 

Hope this helps without me getting into trouble again.
http://www.wsr.org.uk/cgi-bin/gallery8a.cgi?h=Snapshot&p=2011/07/120711_1_lro

 

Link works fine buseng - she looks good and I look forward to seeing her back home soon in Bournemouth/Poole area DH

 

Thanks I tried to link it but it took me to the newest photo so I removed it. Fingers crossed she's back for the ACE in September with 34067. That is something I want to see on the mainline. An as built Battle of Britain and a rebuilt West Country.

 

Braunton now rostered for WSR service trains on 27th July. Thanks to wsr.org for the update. <BJ>