Riley and Son Ltd: Locomotive Engineers

Another example of Riley & Sons' excellent work. My photo, taken March 12th. 2023

Richard.

 

One of the 2 groups at the Colne Valley did quite a good write up about frame cracks on Black 5s as their example has evidence of BR era repairs, I can't remember which though.

Regards

Chris

 

I think this might be the page you are referring to:
http://www.besps.org/Progress01.htm

Search the page for 'The ‘Black Five’s’ Achilles Heel'

 

She's looking good. All set for action. 44871 emerges from the new Riley works following winter maintenance.

Image c/o Ian Riley Facebook page. <BJ>

 

Heading to ELR Legends weekend i take it

 

News from Ian Riley's Facebook page. Another amazing achievement. <BJ>

''45407 leaves The Works at the booked hour following a complete overhaul including boiler overhaul and complete retube''

 

Why do people paint smokeboxes matt black these days? They were never that in BR days. It's not just Ian and I accept that it is the owners prerogative but I'm just curious as to why.

 

Yes, I've wondered that as well?

 

Heat proof paint? but fair does to Rileys for turning round 2 engines in such a short period, As 45407 has had a full boiler overhaul, does that mean a new 7-year ticket, as a retube normally isn't a boiler off job,

 

How many consecutive years has 45407 been in action now? Really can't remember the last season it was not available?

Jon

 

And if Mr Riley and his men are involved I would expect Tornado benefits from the same reliability.

 

The FB page shows the loco arriving for overhaul on 4th Jan

Jon

 

Don’t think it’s missed a beat since 1998, I had a footplate ride on it in 1996 when it was still ‘Paddy’s Engine’ at the East Lancs and I believe Mr Riley acquired it in 1997?
He hasn’t buggered about keeping it operational since then, I really do take my proverbial hat off to him.

 

They didn't start moving machines into the new works until the middle of December, so to be able to start and finish within the following three and a half months is remarkable. Plus 44871 had work done on it during the 8 weeks it was in the works too.

 

I would of thought as having no involvement in the assembly that will be difficult. Personally I wouldn't take it on....