The LMS-Patriot Project has released the latest progress with building replica LMS Patriot Class No. 5551 The Unknown Warrior.

The new driving wheels for the locomotive were found to be not up to the required standard because cracks were found in the original 6′ 9″ driving wheels; these were thought to have originated from the original casting process.

After a thorough technical investigation, and with the active cooperation of Boro Foundry, it was jointly concluded that the driving wheels could not be repaired to the standard required. Settlement terms have been agreed with Boro Foundry, who are no longer equipped to cast this type of product.

In February, a contract for six new driving wheels for 5551 The Unknown Warrior was placed with William Cook , with an expected delivery lead time of 12-14 weeks.

William Cook has carried out preparatory work on the wheel pattern free of charge. The pattern has been kindly loaned by Tyseley Locomotive Works, and was originally made to replace two driving wheels on 45699 Galatea which were cut through when it derailed in Barry Scrapyard.

The crank axle, one plain axle, balance weight plates, and lead material can be reused, but new tyres will be needed. An estimate has been sought from South Devon Railway Engineering for re-assembly of the wheelset.

Materials have been delivered to West Shed for the new fitted bolts required to reassemble the chassis.

Because of adverse weather conditions during February, frame shotblasting to remove millscale had to be postponed into the first half of March.

During February, West Shed took delivery of a lathe suitable for the in-house production/finishing of a wide range of components for 5551. This will generate cost savings and improve project progress and quality control over the life of the project. LMS-Patriot provided loan funding to make this investment possible.

Donations to the LMS-Patriot Project can be made via the website at http://www.lms-patriot.org.uk