LMS (NCC) WT Class ('Jeep') - No. 53

I was reading up on the history of Jeep No.4 preserved by the RPSI and I wondered what happened to her NIR end of steam partner, No. 53. I seem to remember that she was the first choice of the RPSI for preservation but they later switched to No. 4. She was exhibited at Whitehead on an open day in the early 70s after being stored in Carrickfergus goods shed. I know she was then broken up but can anyone tell me when and where - do any pictures exist of her final movements? Was she stripped for spares for no. 4? Hope someone can fill in some details. Thanks

 

As far as I know this is the situation:

Her driving wheels (not sure about pony/trailing wheels) were acquired by UFTM, a swap was then done when No4 was first overhauled as her tyres were thin. No4 has been running on 53's wheels ever since. No4's original wheels lie at the back of Whitehead workshops. I think there may have been other parts acquired by either the UFTM or the RPSI but I couldn't say for sure. I'm afraid I can't help on scrapping dates/locations.

Charlie Friel from the RPSI is the man to speak to, as he probably has photos of it's last movements and maybe even the scrapping.

Sorry I can't be of any more help.


Keith

 

Thanks, Keith. Do you happen to know if Charlie is on 'Nat-Pres'?

 

I don't think Charlie is on here, but user 'JJF' is his son or his nephew. However if you sent a message through the RPSI website then I'm sure it would get to him.


Keith

 

Picture from the 11th August this year with number 4 over the wheel drop at Whitehead. The spare set of driving wheels (number 4's original set) can be seen next to her. Looking forward to seeing the 'jeep' running again in the next year or two, I hope!

 

Replicas have been built from less!

 

There is research currently ongoing between the RPSI lads and those interested in a Fowler Tank. If things go successfully we may get a new loco of both designs built!