An update has been made regarding the overhaul of SR Maunsell Q-class No. 30541 at the Bluebell Railway for October 2023.

The well-loved locomotive’s boiler underwent Non-Destructive Testing at the end of September, which revealed fantastic news with nothing unexpected or untoward found. Before the testing could take place, all flues and smokes were removed and some needle gunning to the boiler barrel was carried out.

Work relating to the chassis saw the frames lifted on the 4th of October which enabled the removal of the wheelsets which will be heading to the South Devon Railway where assessment will be carried out as to whether to attempt a further turn of the tyres or to replace.

A discussion with the Railway’s Boiler Inspector will take place this month (October) which will include a review of the findings before agreeing on the extent of work required to overhaul the boiler and the chassis.

With regard to the motion, some parts will be returned to Sheffield Park for attention alongside the boiler cladding, which will free up space at the Leaky Finders‘ works.

The locomotive’s tender has seen a reputable large-scale metal fabricator visit the existing tender tank whilst a somewhat contract is preparing costings for a quote to see the fabricating of a new tender tank. At present, the tender is located behind 31618 near the Bulleid Society shop, whilst space is created for the current tank to be released from the chassis.

The Overhaul of a locomotive is an expensive task, and the Q needs your help as the Maunsell Locomotive Society attempts to raise funding of £40,000 to cover the costs for the overhaul of the tender and the manufacture of a new tender tank.

The Q Class is a very special locomotive and a perfect fit for the Bluebell Railway being an ideal size and economical to run alongside fitting well with the ‘Southern’ image, especially as she did operate in the local area!

Currently, around £25,000 has been raised of the target amount, which is very much appreciated by the Society and will help to see this wonderful locomotive back on the tracks at the Bluebell Railway.

If you are able to support the overhaul of the Q Class, please click here, select the DONATE ONLINE or the DONATE MONTHLY button and select the Q 541 OVERHAUL option to make an online payment.