Workshop Update: Summer Progress

While the workshop tends to be quieter during the peak summer season as many of our staff are on the footplate, it doesn’t mean things have come to a standstill. Here’s an update on the projects currently in progress, along with a video update from our General Manager, Stuart:

Loco No. 1 ‘Santa Teresa’

Loco No. 1 has been out of service for a few months due to issues with boiler leaks. Upon inspection, we discovered that the steam tubes, which were replaced only six years ago, had imperfections and began to fail earlier than expected. Typically, these tubes should last at least 10 years, so replacing them so soon has been a disappointment.

The process of replacing the tubes is complex and involves a lot of hard, hot, and dirty work. Our team has been busy cutting out the old tubes and fitting the new ones. Once installed, the boiler will undergo pressure testing and be signed off by a Boiler Inspector before Loco No. 1 returns to service. We’re optimistic about having it back in steam by September.

Loco No. 2

Loco No. 2 has been handling all services over the past few months, and apart from a few minor issues, it has performed flawlessly. We recently filmed a video on the footplate, which you can check out here. If you’d like to experience the thrill of riding on the footplate yourself, you can now book a trip from Pant to Torpantau, where you’ll witness the loco working hard on the steep inclines of our route!

Wagons

All three of our ‘gondolas’—open-topped wagons primarily used for coal storage—have been through the workshop. We’ve replaced the wooden sides and given them a fresh coat of paint, ensuring they’re in top condition for continued use.

Forney 2-4-4 New Build

Significant progress is visible on the new Forney 2-4-4 build when you visit the workshop. The frames and cylinders have now been erected, the driving wheelsets along with the front and rear trucks, are complete. We’ve also constructed a new boiler for the loco, which is currently stored at Pontsticill awaiting fitting. Many of the smaller components are also finished, and work continues steadily behind the scenes.

Diesels

Our small 0-6-0 diesel is frequently used for works trains, while the larger TU7 has been out of action for a while. Both will be in service for crew training in October, and we’re hoping to offer tickets for those who want to ride along during these sessions. Stay tuned!

Even during the busy summer months, our dedicated team is hard at work ensuring everything is in top shape. We look forward to sharing more updates as these projects continue to progress!