Update Early Jan 26

Thursday, 15th January, 2026

Hi all,

Happy New year again,

80097:

Out of service whilst the railway is closed. A routine piston and valve inspection is being carried out.

46428:

Foundation ring rivet removal continues with approximately 80% now out. A few remain in the throat plate. The very awkward ones in the corners are far more time consuming. We have no schedule of work. When it's done it's done. When all are out we must then plan how we will loosen the foundation ring so it can be lifted clear. This will require the whole boiler on it's trolley (Mk1 bogie) to be wheeled outside under the sheerlegs (lifting hoist). We will then consult with our Boiler Inspector and carry out NDT to establish it's condition and whether it can be re-used. Our friends at Format NDT of St Helens will carry out the testing and provide a report. This report will be archived to provide the restoration history for it's final assessment and it's fitness to return to operational service. We also have developments on cylinder boring and slidebars. Watch this space. See below how our rivet busters are doing.