THE much-anticipated return to main line service of Great Western ‘King’ No. 6024
King Edward I may only be around 12 months away, according to 6024 Preservation Society chairman Richard Abbey.
The four-cylinder 4-6-0, which is owned by the Royal Scot & General Locomotive Trust, but maintained and operated by the society, continues to be re-assembled at Minehead on the West Somerset Railway.
The new ‘slimline’ outside cylinders, designed to increase the ‘King’s’ route availability, have been permanently fitted to the frames and now await the fitting of the new cladding sheets.
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At the other end of the frames a new dragbox has been fitted and a new cab floor manufactured and installed. The frames themselves have been repainted.
Meanwhile, Riley & Son has completed work on repairing small fractures in the driving wheels and is now working on the boiler; new metal being welded in the firebox prior to re-tubing. A new smokebox will also to be fitted.
Read more in the March issue of The RM – out now!
