Bellerophon

The VCT's 0-6-0WT "BELLEROPHON" has now been stripped down at South Devon Railway and we can begin to see just what's needed to bring him back to life.

Fortunately, only one axle, the rear [driving], needs complete replacement. The new axle has been ordered and all 3 axles will be ultrasonic tested before the engine is re-wheeled.

So far, one out of the 6 springs has been found to be broken. This will be repaired and all 6 tested and certificated before the engine re-enters service. Spring hangars etc all require work to bring them back to standard.

Axleboxes are pretty good, but work needs doing to the horn guides to make them fit better.

Other, smaller, work will be required on the motion [Pins, bushes and the like].

The guys at Buckfastleigh made the VCT/Foxfield party very welcome last weekend and we are all looking forward to seeing the engine up and running again early next year.

 

Thanks for the update. No mention of the boiler I notice - is it ok then?

 

Thanks for the info. on this, Haydock C is one of the most interesting locomotives in preservation. Glad it is only one axle, I think one of the comics has reported that it requires more than one. The axle bearing seats are concave on this engine if I recall correctly, which gave rise to lubrication concerns when the locomotive was first restored should the engine be worked hard. Are the boxes still of the original design? I would imagine that they are but I remember them as being as cause for concern. On the Worth Valley it was well regarded, particularly in view of it's age and size, though it usually only worked two and three coach trains it was capable of more but being so unique it was best to give it a fairly easy life. The wheels are reportedly cast with hollow spokes and I trust these remain defect free.
Being the first locomotive design to include a successful application of piston valves I have often wondered how well they withstand use and how much attention they require. Any information gratefully received.

 

The boiler is still only part way through the current ticket and this is purely attention to the bottom end to resolve the issue with loose wheel(s).