Atomic Systems

Today a huge step forward was made in the restoration of the worlds first garratt: K1. The locomotive received its formal steam test and I'm happy to report it pass with flying colours and is now the proud owner of a ten year bolier certificate.

The locomotive is to the untrained eye complete, but closer inspection reveals the lack of piston rods and pistons on them! These are the final items required to be completed before the locomotive moves under its own power:

Final fitting of pistons.
Tightening and lagging of the main steam pipe.
Completion of whistle operating mechanism.
Cab floor to be made and installed.
Fitting of cab footplate extension pieces (a Health & Safety requirement for improved safety in accessing the cab from the steps, which are offset from the door because of where the rear cylinders are).
Completion of a few details on the lubrication system, mainly replacement of a faulty splitter unit.

But hopefully these items should be complete very soon indeed and line trails should hopefully take place in a matter of weeks.

More info at: http://www.bangor.ac.uk/ml/whr/

Bruce

Joseph1991 passed Boston Lodge and saw it in steam!

Bruce's message should of course read "Worlds First Garratt" - not Garrett!

bargepower wrote:Bruce's message should of course read "Worlds First Garratt" - not Garrett!

Good Point Ian Well Spotted - Hope you were able to see her first hand

Bruce

No, didn't see her - I had to work in Caernarfon for most of the day!!!!!!

Ah well you can't have um all supose

I wonder what the chances of seeing a test run accross the cob is... with a bit of luck they might run one between the 21st and 27th

Bruce

I'm going 14th - 21st, so I won't see you there. But still, don't forget to pop down to the Talyllyn...

John