Wansford Motive Power Depot (MPD), on the Nene Valley Railway, has released it’s latest update on steam locomotive undergoing maintenance and repairs.

British Railways (BR) Standard Class 5 No.73050

Progress is being made on multiple front in overhauling 73050. The Silvertown mechanical lubricators are currently undergoing an overhaul,. The cab window arm rests have been stripped and cleaned.

The air pump has been disassembled ready for cleaning and any repairs needed. The next tasks are to carry out more riveting on the dragbox and strip and clean manifold controls from the cab. Initial assessment of the exhaust steam injector delivery pipe has highlighted two areas where repairs will be needed.

“Thomas”

Starting with the removing of the dome cover, the regulator quadrant has been removed, which will allow the regulator rod and regulator to be removed.

“Derek Crouch”

Now in the paint store are a few smaller parts which are ready for painting. The back end of the frame has received further welding and is now taking shape.

656

With both the cab and tanks reattached to the frame, the team moved onto refitting pipework, starting with the manifold in the cab, then starting to look at the injectors.

5485 Polish Tank

Repairs have been carried out on pipework for the air pump and vacuum ejector, after they were found to be blowing. The job saw the pipework cleaned, new washers and sealant if needed. A steam test has been done, with the engine planned to be in service after a minor repair to the fireman’s side clack valve.

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