The Gwili Railway thread

i THINK I'm right in saying the Gwili has TWO 03 locos. I can certainly understand the idea of a DMU as I was used to guarding them for may years long ago on the West Somerset Railway. Sadly they wouldn't really be suitable for regular services as most Gwili trains now offer Welsh elevenses and and afternoon teas so a rake of coaches is needed.

 

Is it 'cos they is ****?

(It's interesting that a few years ago there was a slew of Pacers going to preservation, and much excitable talk about how they were an ideal cheap motive power, historic vehicles worth preserving etc; and now those same railways seem to be quietly trying to divest themselves of the vehicles ...

Tom

 

Is the 03 limited to 4 coaches? Problem is really you want to be running steam as much as possible, as that’s the draw. Something like a 37 or Hymek would require a lot of work and maintenance for only a handful of running days…. 03 can be used for shunting, pway - all sorts and far simpler and cheaper to maintain.

 

No comment on the first line…

the sensor on the wheel would not be good for some of our curves, incompatible with other stock, really need at least 2 units for spares and parts, lack of public appeal, were a few of the reasons that were discussed. Yes there may be work arounds on these but I can’t say the decision has been regretted.

 

Push the boat out for a Class 14. Can still do everything an 03 can but isn't as outgunned out on the road at speed.

 

Part of the problem is that they are complicated beasts. On paper they seem ok, but dozens of relays providing interlocking etc means it only takes a minor sensor or relay problem and you aren't going anywhere (A door not triggering the closed sensor means you can't get brake release is a common one!) Our CME on CHR has been spending a lot of his valuable time on Pacer faults when he would much rather have been working on steam loco Barclay 2261 and hence delayed the completion of that overhaul).

 

Please don't touch a pacer! There's a railway I'd really like to visit, but they lean on pacers outside of peak times and I absolutely won't pay to ride one!

 

I always think anything with coupling rods can be regarded as an honorary steam engine!