70000 'Britannia'

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Its not my pic (full credit to author), but after looking at this of 70000 being completed at Crewe, the air pump is mounted above the front bufferbeam. Does anybody know if this is just a temporary measure for testing, or a long term place for it. On BR standards, i thought the pumps went behind the covering directly underneath the smokebox??

http://stephen-bottrill.fotopic.net/p66293204.html

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

With the exception of the Tyne Dock 9F's and, for a short while, two Britannias, BR standards didn't have air pumps. Those on the 9F's were located part way along the right hand running plate. The Britannias (70043/4) had a pump either side of the smokebox and, whilst they carried them, they were devoid of smoke deflectors. There's no 'standard' place to fit an air pump. It generally goes where you can find room.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

The air pump fitted during the 1980's for use on the Nene Valley Railway was in the same place, although it appeared to be a bit higher and more substantial than the one in that photograph. Perhaps there are more components that need to be installed.

Regards,

Dan

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Thanks for clearing that up lads, much appreciated.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

How far is she off steaming now?

Cheers,
Lewis

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

I did hear September. But I might be confusing her with 70013.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Not quite correct Steve, 73030 and 73031 emerged from Derby Works in 1953 dual fitted. They were used for comparative trials of coal trains on the Midland main line. 73030 had the air brake system removed in November 1955 and 73031 received similar treatment in March 1956.
I also think I am correct in saying that the air gear on the Tyne Dock 9Fs was used for opening and closing the doors of the hopper wagons on arrival at Consett. It was not used to operate the train braking system, which remained vacuum operated.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Totally forgot about the Standard 5's. Fitted for the same reasons that the Britannias' were. And, yes, the Tyne dock air pumps were for operating the wagon doors, not the brakes.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

I wonder if the pump needs an air flow to keep it cool(-ish)? I believe Tangmere's pump is similarly located at the front - but on the Driver's side. Scotsman's and 60009's pumps are between the frames quite close to the firebox I seem to recall.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

34067's was tucked away under the casing initially, and caused problems until it was moved to the front. I don't think No. 9 or 4472 have had too many problems. I would imagine there's enough air flow underneath to keep it cool.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Pete Waterman has a couple of photos in his latest blog post http://pete.railnuts.com/2010/08/07/20s-back-in-the-black/

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Any recent news on her...how much is yet to be done before any trials can take place?

Cheers,
Lewis

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

it's booked on a trip to Exeter in 41 days time, but I wouldnt book a ticket based on the expectation of it pulling it.
Think back to 2008 and 70013 was ready significantly before this and run in.. and still was a race to the finish for the 15 guinea re-run.
I wouldnt hold out much hope for 70000 this year on the mainline... why rush it ?

5305 is due out in even less time.. and it's boilers not in the frames yet.. but 45407 also showed how quick it can be done.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

70000 is 'finished' (no brick arch yet), will be pulled out of the hall tomorrow (Monday) and be in steam most of the week.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Now that is the best news I have heard all month

Could you let us know how things go with the locomotive next week please?

Regards,

Dan

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

I am working at Crewe this coming week and will try and get some pictures and post them on here.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Its in steam this morning.

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Fingers crossed for the 'Norfolkman' each way soon

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

and 70013 ?

 

Re: 70000 "Britannia" at Crewe

Don't know about state the loco, but the cab was in Loughborough yard on Sunday.