” Whilst we cannot report much in the way of physical progress on the locomotive, there is still much progress in the background. Unfortunately, the high workload at Riley & Son (E) Ltd has further delayed the manufacture of the wheel sets. This setback is very frustrating but Riley’s really are proficient and can be considered as the most knowledgeable heritage engineering firm in this field. We continue to be in close dialogue with Riley’s with the aim to have the wheelsets completed in 2025.
In the meantime, we have explored the manufacture of other components. The patterns for the driving and intermediate axle hornguides are underway. The obvious task for these castings is to guide the axleboxes during suspension travel. But the main task, in conjunction with the hornstays, is to stiffen the frames. The frames have large cut outs for the axles leaving potential weak points at the upper corners of the apertures. Therefore, the casting, machining and assembly of the hornguides and hornstays are essential before any further components of high weights can be assembled.
The brake assembly is also under construction. As reported previously, the brake shaft brackets have been cast and discussion is ongoing with a heritage engineering firm to machine the brake shaft assembly, brackets and handbrake .
Meanwhile, at Tyseley Locomotive Works, the pistons and piston rods are taking shape with plans to manufacture further components to complete the ‘engine’ of the locomotive.
More drawings have been investigated at the Essex Records Office and scans of drawings have been acquired from the National Railway Museum. A very important scan of a drawing that had been previously missed was acquired in November 2024. This is a dimensioned drawing of the unique cab for ‘our’ locomotive, GER Nr. 789, and Nr.790. This was drawn in 1910, adding to the evidence that these locomotives were rebuilt in 1912. The possession of this drawing will enable the start of the next phase of construction as it confirms the details of the side tanks and cab. A full CAD model is being generated to ensure that every thing will assemble as intended, and that the new tanks and cab will assemble to the existing rear bunker/water tank, previously constructed nearly 20 years ago.”
Graham Rowland, Researcher The Holden F5 Steam Locomotive Trust.
Elliot Powick, CME, The Holden F5 Steam Locomotive Trust.