A reminder: The Museum will not be open on June 23rd 2024
‘Nuttall’ 0-6-0 ST Hunslet 1685-1931 Ex Mowlem 1948 Cannock Wood
190 – Chasewater Railway Museum Bits and Pieces
From Chasewater News – Summer 1996 – Part 1
Editorial
So far this year the weather has been kind to us, with the exception of the Spring Bank Holiday, and unlike 1995 this has been reflected in the ticket receipts so far received. The number of passengers carried for the first two months of the season is significantly up on the same period last year. This has also had a knock-on effect within the catering and shop sales areas. It is welcome that our core business is starting the season off so well. If the trend and the weather keep up then the Railway should be back in profit by the second half of the running season.
Plans are also in hand for the further acquisition of track that should take the Railway to the end of its current lease if not further. There is no doubt that the Railway is enjoying a higher profile with the general public and railway fraternity. This has been dramatically shown by the speed of membership renewals and the number of new members joining since January. Also it is welcoming to see a number of old members whose membership has lapsed taking a renewed interest in the Railway. I would like to welcome all the new members who have joined this year and I hope that you will feel at home at Chasewater.
The Railway has had fewer instances of trespass over the past few years than used to be the case, and when it has occurred it has taken the form of a nuisance value rather than really serious damage, even though the damage caused has been b—– aggravating and has wasted our time in clearing up afterwards. However we look at the results of a break-in, the security of the site is still going to be a major headache. Do we spend a large amount of cash (which we haven’t got) in re-fencing the compounds, only to have it demolished within a few years by the BNRR (M6 Toll), or do we try to make do and mend until the BNRR issue is finally resolved. The dilemma is not an easy one. So far this year apart from a number of coach windows broken, and one raid into the buffet, the vandalism and theft is nothing compared with the break-in to the shed several years ago.
After the AGM, which was held in much more comfortable surroundings than in past years, a pub, the following people were elected:
David Bathurst Chairman
Steve Organ General Manager
Chris Chivers Financial Controller
Bob Duffill Commercial Manager
Andy Clegg Company Secretary
Arthur Edwards Director
Dave Ives Director
As Arthur is the new member to the Board I can only wish him the best and hope he doesn’t get as much grey hair as I’ve got!
Chasewater News is edited by Chris Chivers.
Loco Shed News
This year seems bedevilled by problems in trying to get steam traction out in traffic. The first problem was duff coal, a test batch was sent to us and then a further 10 tons was sent in replacement for the original 10 ton delivery. After spending an afternoon shovelling it out of the mineral wagon to send back I am still trying to get some feeling back into my legs. The new batch of coal, yet again British, as no Russian is available, has proved more volatile therefore freer steaming, but the problem of clinkering still remains. The diesel department has received yet another locomotive courtesy of Mr. A Clegg and this is stabled on 2-road in the top compound.
Steam Locomotives
No.4 Asbestos
The Boiler Inspector has seen Asbestos and subject to a small amount of welding around the bottom of the firebox along with the replacement of several tubes all looks well. If the Inspector gives it the all-clear after the steam test, Asbestos should be back in traffic by the time this mag is published.
No.5 Sentinel
Sentinel in original livery – 1
After several steamings the Sentinel suffered from a broken drive chain. This has been a blow to Nigel Canning after putting so much work over the past two years into the Sentinel’s overhaul. Apart from the broken drive chain the crank case and drive sprocket has suffered some damage and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Members of the loco department are looking into finding replacement links for the chain so therefore salvaging as much of the original chain as possible.
Sentinel in original livery-2
No.11 Alfred Paget
Work on Alfred Paget is continuing at a pace. Since the spring mag all the tubes have been removed and the saddle tank has also been moved onto the platform, along with the boiler cladding, cab and bunkers. This has allowed the boiler to be partially lifted out of the frames so that the stays can be checked. Along with the rotten smokebox being removed the boiler has been cleaned internally and externally. It has been decided that the work on restoring Alfred Paget will be funded separately and any offers of help and/or donations can be made to Paul Whittaker whose wife Janet is acting as treasurer for the Alfred Paget Fund.
S100
Tony Sale has now completed replacing the slide bars on S100 ready to re-install the cross-heads. This has included the manufacture of new slide bar shims so that they can be lined up correctly with the pistons. The framed should be receiving a final coat of paint along with the wheels before the bearings are checked so that the wheels can be put back into place.
Invicta
This locomotive is still stabled on the end of one-road and is still awaiting attention from Mike Wood as to its long term future. This locomotive provided the Railway with some sterling service before its boiler ticket ran out and it would be useful to see it back into traffic sometime in the future.
917
This has received a second coat of paint courtesy of Dave Borthwick and the Railway must think of the long term future for this engine, considering the repairs needed to the boiler.
Diesel Locomotives
Fowler diesel hydraulic No.422015
The Fowler is still running even though there are signs of water leaking into the sump. The overall work that the loco is carrying out is being kept to a minimum while the problem is being traced.
L&Y No.1
The body of No.1 has now been lifted out of the bay platform and has been prepared ready for needle gunning. One set of buffers and draw gear have been removed and are in the shed after being cleaned and painted. The brake gear and sand boxes have been removed as well as the wheels. A new set of spoked wheels are due to replace the current solid wheels so bringing No.1 back to its original condition. The gear box has now been stripped down and is undergoing repairs before being installed. The engine has now had the clutch mechanism attached and only awaits a few minor parts before being completed.
No.21
Work is still continuing on the restoration of No.21 and is only subject to the time available from Jonathan Clegg & Co.
DMU Set
Ken Dyde with the DMU at the new Lakeside Station
The bar is now all but completed and the broken windows were re[laced within 24 hours by Ken Dyde & Co. A number of additional spares have been purchased from Tyseley depot, including a replacement engine if required.
Ruston Hornsby DM48
This has recently arrived on site and a few basic jobs have been carried out to tidy up its appearance while an engine head and other spares are located.
Peckett ‘Teddy’ giving brake van rides, Easter Sunday, 05-04-2024 from behind the Heritage Centre at Chasewater Railway.
From Chasewater News Winter 93 – Spring 94 – Part 4
From The Board Room – David Bathurst, Acting Chairman.
With so many initiatives being worked-up on the railway at the present time, the Board is finding itself with an ever-increasing agenda. Indeed, the Board Meeting held on 20th December failed to complete its business and had to be adjourned.
To enable members to be aware of the work being done on behalf of the Company, it is hoped to publish from time to time a brief resumé of matters currently under consideration by the Board.
This short note is not intended to cover all details of the Board’s business, but I trust it will be of interest to members.
1. Following damage to the park which occurred during the movement of rolling stock, which resulted in considerable correspondence from the Council, it has been agreed that all such movements must in future be cleared with the general manager, and the crossing of grassed areas under the Council’s jurisdiction will not be permitted.
2. A framework for crew training is to be considered in conjunction with the Roster Clerk, so as to maximise the potential of prospective crew members. This will include both steam and diesel traction.
3. The rostering of trainee firemen under the supervision of a passed fireman will be discontinued. Trainee firemen will in the future act under the direct supervision of the driver.
4. Only drivers and passed firemen acting under the supervision of the driver shall be permitted to drive steam locomotives while hauling passenger trains.
5. In view of steam locomotive footplate constraints, only rostered crew and other authorised persons (including official guests) shall be permitted to ride on the footplate.
6. The Board has agreed to the disposal of the crane, in view of its limited use by the CLR and the liabilities associated with it. The availability of the crane, by way of sale, is to be advertised in the railway press.
7. Paul Richards is to assume responsibility as Membership Officer as successor to Adrian Hall. The date for transfer of membership details has yet to be agreed, being dependent on the setting up of suitable computer software.
8. A shed fund has been opened, with a small sum banked to set the ball rolling.
9. In view of the shortage of siding accommodation, any future proposals to introduce further items of rolling stock to the railway will have to be cleared by a sub-committee constituted by the Board.
10. It is considered essential for the CLR to enter into proper agreements with private owners of rolling stock, and perhaps other plant and equipment, which is residing at Chasewater. The introduction of such agreements is intended to provide a clearer relationship between the parties, and to protect the interests of both the CLR and the private owners concerned.
11. Work on the causeway restoration scheme is proceeding rapidly, and should be completed during the spring/early summer. However, it will be necessary to obtain the approval of HMRI before long. Thanks to a donor who wishes to be anonymous, a footbridge has arrived on site on the causeway.The recently installed footbridge at the far end of the causeway. This bridge was located, donated and installed all in the space of a few days. It will provide pedestrian access alongside the existing railway bridge.
12. Consultations are proceeding with Lichfield District Council to secure the land which will be needed in the future to extend the line to Anglesey Wharf, but this may be delayed owing to the uncertainties associated with the line of the Burntwood Western By-pass.
13. Consultations are also proceeding with the Birmingham Northern Relief Road promoters regarding the relocation of Brownhills West Station. Track layouts have been prepared by Regional Railways as a basis for discussion.
14. The disposal to Llangollen of the Wickhams, following asbestos removal, has been confirmed by the Board, subject to suitable arrangements having been made with regard to replacement passenger stock.
169 – Bits and Pieces
169 – Chasewater Railway Museum Bits and Pieces
From the Editorial – Nigel Canning
This issue of Chasewater News records our recent visit with ‘Asbestos’ and a brake van to Bromford Tube Works. The majority of the magazine has been taken up by photos taken by members in an attempt to record the layout of the railway system in the works which has now sadly closed.
A great deal has been happening at Chasewater since the last issue. Our coaching stock problem has been solved, although it may have created another one – lack of siding space; and track is being laid to the new station, which now has a name.
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – This loco got through its visual examination and steam test without problem, although the Inspector did comment on the condition of some of the boiler tubes, and that if any of them failed the entire set would have to be replaced. As if to emphasise the point, a number of tubes started to leak at Bromford following some energetic running, and have given trouble ever since.
Following renewal of the worst two tubes, the loco ran on Easter Sunday, but failed with further tubes leaking on the Monday. After that, a further dozen tubes were renewed enabling the loco to run on Bank Holiday Sunday, only to fail again on the Monday.
Enough new tubes have been ordered to renew the entire set, some of which must be in excess of fifteen years old. Whilst awaiting delivery of the full set, a further twelve have been renewed to enable trains to run at Spring Bank Holiday.
Apart from the tube problem the loco has continued to run well, and due to its being returned from Bromford facing the other way round, looks better hauling trains chimney first in its freshly painted green livery.
No.5 Sentinel – Very little progress has been made on this loco due mainly to the amount of work needed to try and keep Asbestos running. The boiler has, however, now been re-assembled, and the fittings are being refurbished off-site.
S100 – Work has continued on another of the four big leaf springs, the buckle of which was heated to expand it prior to assembly in Asbestos’s firebox. Various bits and pieces of brake rigging have also been fitted to the frames.
Fowler diesel – This loco has remained in service, used for shunting and works trains.
Ruston DL7 – In a surprise operation just prior to Easter this loco was fitted with an exhauster, valves and pipework to enable it to work vacuum braked passenger trains. Since then it has completed several days of passenger train operation including ’extra’ non-advertised days as well as standing in for Asbestos. Being unaccustomed to such intensive running, one of the axle boxes began to overheat, requiring stripping and cleaning. The drive belt for the low voltage dynamo also caused a problem by disintegrating half way down the line. This was, however, repaired fairly quickly without the train having to be rescued by another loco. The general public appear unaware of the difference between the diesel and Asbestos, although to be fair, they are both painted the same shade of green and produce roughly similar quantities of smoke when running!
L&Y petrol loco – This loco seems to have been abandoned for the time being with various bits scattered around the station yard and loco shed. Hopefully the re-assembly will commence shortly!
No.21 diesel – The engine for this loco is awaiting new cylinder head gaskets, and when fitted an attempt will be made to finally get it running again.
New Fowler – This four-coupled diesel mechanical loco appeared on site recently having been acquired from a preservation society in Redditch. Following an attempt to tow-start the loco, it was found that the fuel injection pump needed repair, and this has since been removed. Various other components have also been removed for attention so it could be some time before the loco is runnable.
Smith Rodley crane – this vehicle has remained out of use and has been pushed out of the way up No.3 road until a buyer can be found for it.
Carriage & Wagon News
New coaching stock – At long last replacements for the 2-car Wickham DMU and the recently departed Gloucester trailer have been found and began to arrive at Chasewater at the end of May. A total of four additional vehicles have been purchased from BR, a centre car and three power cars.
The first of these vehicles, a Pressed Steel Co. motor brake second, W51372, arrived in time to run at Whitsun. The recent history of this vehicle is quite interesting as it is one of several used by the contractors of the Channel Tunnel and has been through to France. A maintenance record book found in the drivers’ cab refers to various faults as being at “the French end” of the train.
Ultimately it is intended to retain two of the four for use as a working DMU in BR green livery, whilst the other two will be used as loco-hauled stock. Hopefully full details of the new stock will be included in the next magazine.
Wickhams E56171 & E50416 – The trailer car remained in service on passenger trains until just before Whitsun, when a vacuum leak in the brake system caused serious problems. In view of the impending arrival of the replacements it was withdrawn from use. The power car has also remained out of use.
Payment for the Wickhams has now been received from Llangollen, although a date has not yet been set for their removal from Chasewater. This is likely to cause a space problem, as with the new arrivals there will be a total of seven DMU cars on site for a while.
Derby centre car W59444 – This coach has remained in service although it has been noticed that the surface of one of its tyres has started to flake away. Advice is being sought as to whether it can be repaired.
20 ton Great Western Toad – This vehicle was ‘done up’ to run at Bromford Tube with Asbestos. If nothing else it has benefited from having the rust worn off its brake blocks, as it covered most of the distance at Bromford with its brake screwed hard on!
CRC 4-plank wagon – Progress on the wagon has continued and it now appears to be back in one piece. Tony Wheeler has started on the paintwork with the intention of finishing it in the livery of the ‘Conduit Colliery Company’.
Great Eastern six-wheel passenger brake – With the coming of better weather Dave Borthwick has started again on painting this vehicle.
Other vintage stock – No work appears to have been carried out on any other vehicles although this situation will hopefully improve during the course of the summer.
Shed Fund – This fund is now well underway so that by the time the route of the motorway is finally settled there may be enough money to make a start on this project. Meanwhile donations will be gratefully received by the Treasurer, Chris Chivers.
I’m sorry but I can’t remember who took the photographs.
I’m guessing that the Editor was still Nigel Canning, with contributions from Dave Borthwick and Steve Organ.
Editorial
On the back cover of this magazine (reproduced below) is a copy of the 1993 timetable, and for the first time in the history of the CLR it is actually a timetable rather than just a calendar. It remains to be seen whether the trains will actually run on time, or whether we can stretch the journey time to suit, but at least it will give the operating staff something definite to work to, and hopefully create a more business-like impression for potential passengers. In addition, all the usual special events are planned for this season and will keep us all stretched to the limit. If anyone would like to help out at any of these events they would be most welcome.
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – This loco ran successfully at Christmas on the Santa Specials, and will continue in use this year. In order to guarantee a water supply for the loco in the event of frost, the water tower had to be put back into use, a job which required the removal of a large amount of green slimy pond weed and the fitting of two new plastic floats to the supply valves, hopefully early this year the long-missing balance pipe will be fitted to Asbestos’ saddle tank thus helping to prolong the interval between top-ups.
No.5 Sentinel – The two halves of the boiler have now been cleaned and await a visit from the Boiler Inspector when a decision will be made as to whether a new set of tubes will be required. Work has progressed with the moving of the injector to the fireman’s side of the cab and re-routing of all the water and steam pipes to make them more easily drainable in frosty weather. Work is also being carried out to refurbish various steam fittings which had been leaking towards the end of last year.
Sentinel – Jan 2012 – Now heading for completion of the major inspection following the one written about. It had a good ten years running in between.
No.2 Lion – This loco is still progressing towards its first steam test with the continued manufacture of replacement pipework. Work has also been carried out to repair a turbo generator which is to be fitted to the loco to provide cab lighting and battery charging for the coaching stock.
Work is still progressing, albeit slowly, on S100.
S100 – 2011 A lot of work has gone into this loco over the last few years but there is still a lot of boiler work to be done.
The Fowler diesel has again remained in use on works trains throughout the winter.
Contrary to the report in the last magazine, DL7’s engine has been re-assembled and the loco run on test. Once one or two minor faults have been corrected the loco should be able to re-enter service.
No.21 diesel and the Smith Rodley crane have remained out of use.
Carriage & Wagon News
The good news to begin with is that Ken Dyde has agreed to fill the void and represent the C&W dept until the next board meeting. Ken has past experience working in the C&W dept on the SVR, and one of his valuable talents is that he can organise a team to tackle most jobs. Ken lives locally and spends most weekends at Chasewater.
Great Eastern 6-wheel passenger brake – All of the doors have now been fitted, although the missing door from the end compartment has been found, 75% destroyed, which highlights the problems of past abandoned projects. A dummy door has been modified from one, which according to Chris Hatton, came off a DMU.
Midland Box Van – Tony has continued scraping and painting. On one side he has exposed from beneath layers of paint a red triangle not too dissimilar to the Bass Charrington sign. Black letters are also distinguishable which could read ‘Bass Railway’.
North Eastern box van – During his winter Saturdays when not carrying out his PW duties, Arthur Edwards has started replacing some of the rotten side planking prior to repainting.
CRC (CCCC) brake van An inspection has been carried out on the rotting timbers around the spring hangers. Use of temporary steel plate cladding will strengthen the solebars enough for the vehicle to be shunted to where more substantial work can be carried out on the 6” x 12” timbers after jacking.
In the past a number of projects on wooden-bodied stock have been started with no plan of attack or materials in stock. Consequently, main frame timbers, vital metal items and wagon parts left scattered around the yard have all been left to rot in the open with no work being carried out for months on end. I think all members must agree that a restoration project started on a whim should not be accommodated by the C&W dept. In the future, any members who would like to start restoration projects on wooden-bodied stock should please request permission in writing from the Carriage & Wagon Director, who will offer all possible assistance.
Dave Borthwick
Maryport & Carlisle 5 compartment all 3rd coach – Thorough examination has revealed a need for urgent attention to panelling. A survey was carried out on the vehicle in January revealing almost all waist and lower panelling rotten and with very active wet rot fungus, roof galvanising starting to fail, and several doors in need of removal, de-rotting and repair. There was only minor rot to the main frame, but soft wood noggins are in need of replacement. Many windows and droplights are also in need of replacement or repair. All springs need to be replaced, all running boards need to be repaired and replaced and the complete vehicle needs to be treated against rot.
The first job was to erect a tent, then a platform alongside to work from. These were in place in late January and restoration is now proceeding.
New panels of beech marine ply have been cut and fitted for most of the lower and waist panelling following removal of most of the old panelling. The new panelling is being treated and painted at a member’s home workshop, to be fitted to the coach after the body frame has dried out and been rot treated. Doors will be repaired off-site to enable a rapid restoration to take place.
Manchester Sheffield & Lincoln composite brake – This lovely vehicle has had a little luck lately. During conversation with the Butterley C&W team, it was revealed that they had recently stripped a derelict MS&L coach body and had some doors from it. Hasty retreat to the stores and hey presto! Four doors of exactly the right profile, window pattern and size to fit the opening left in the doorway of the guard’s compartment of our own fire-damaged vehicle! Enthusiastic fitter now required!
CRC 4 plank coal wagon – Examination of this vehicle in January revealed a completely rotten floor, some completely rotten side planks and very corroded springs. Other than that, the frame and most of the ironwork, apart from some straps, appear to be very good. An immediate start was made on removing rotten timbers to reveal the frame properly so that it could be dried out and rot-treated. New side and floor planking has been acquired, and this vehicle should be coupled to the Midland box van in a resurrected state by Easter.
LNWR West Coast Joint Stock 50’ Brake – The new roof has been fitted and ventilators replaced. New toplights have been fitted to completely seal the roof. Much attention has been given to interior panelling, and three-quarters of the interior repainted. Following use of the vehicle as Santa’s Grotto at Christmas, the historic displays are now being mounted, and re-opening as a museum is on line for Easter! Repairs to upright framing and solebars will commence after the Maryport repairs are complete, and will be followed by re-panelling, subject to raising a further £500.
Wickham DMU E56171 & E50416 – These vehicles are the subject of much discussion. At present they have a liability value in that £14,000 is needed to strip them of asbestos. On the other hand, as a unique, working DMU they could be very useful. Ken Dyde and his gang (The Battery Boys!) continue to work on the mechanics and body of the power car, and replacements for the missing windows are now on site, thanks to a very generous price from Brownhills Glass.
Gloucester trailer E56301 – This coach has remained out of use and would require repairs to the bodywork to be carried out before it could be used in service again. There have been rumours that an outside party is interested in purchasing the vehicle for preservation elsewhere, but so far nothing definite has been agreed and it remains stored on No.2 road
Derby Centre Car W59444 – This coach ran in service at Chasewater for the first time at Christmas on the Santa Specials coupled to the Wickham trailer. This looks likely to be the train formation used for the foreseeable future, meaning that the loco will remain on the ‘north’ end of the train. The ‘blood & custard’ livery still requires top coating but hopefully this will be finished by Easter.
We are sorry but due to other commitments, the Museum will not be open this Sunday, 16-4-2023.
142 – Chasewater Railway Museum Bits & Pieces – From Chasewater News December 1991 – Part 1
Editorial – Nigel Canning
On September 3rd this year our hard work finally paid off when Major Olver inspected the railway and gave us permission to run on the extension past Willow Vale. Next year when our newly delivered concrete platform has been built, we could even be running trains to a timetable. A lot of hard work still remains to be done, but by the end of 1992 we could well be running to the causeway. It is now entirely up to us, the more effort we put in, the further we will be able to run trains, so if YOU can help: PLEASE HELP EXTEND THE LINE IN 1992!!
Locomotive News – Including extensive news about Asbestos
Asbestos leaves Brownhills West propelling the Gloucester trailer.
No.4 Asbestos – Many members will have been wondering what has happened to Asbestos and why it has not yet been returned to traffic. When the loco last worked (in 1989) it was suffering from a number of ailments, none of which were particularly bad, but all added to make the loco a rather cantankerous old lady. When the boiler became due for inspection it was decided to rectify as many of the faults as possible.
One major worry was the state of the foundation ring rivets at the base of the firebox. A few of these were found to be leaking and needed replacing. Some of the quotes for the repair were alarming. One company quoted £1,500, if we took the boiler to their factory on Leicester. Fortunately we found a boilersmith who was prepared to travel to Chasewater and do the repairs ‘in situ’. This saved a great deal of work lifting the boiler out of the frames. The bottom three rows of tubes were also removed as these were older than the rest and in need of replacement.
With the repairs complete, the boiler was cleaned to allow the inspector to use his ultra-sonic tester to measure the thickness of the boiler plate. One unpleasant surprise was the state of the inner firebox around the fusible plug. The plate was corroded and was only 7mm. thick, very close to the minimum allowed. Nevertheless the inspector pronounced the boiler OK with the proviso that we keep a close eye on the thickness of the plate around the fusible plug.
The next problem was replacing the two dozen boiler tubes. Fortunately the tubes in Asbestos are the same diameter as a Hunslet ‘Austerity’ 0-6-0, and we happened to know of just such a loco which was undergoing a mayor re-build. The tubes were only a couple of years old, and once cut down to length would be just the job.
Then, suddenly, the CLR finances took one of its periodical downturns and there was no money to spend, even on second-hand tubes. The time was not entirely wasted, as the loco was blanked off ready for its hydraulic test, and the cab fittings were overhauled to make them steam-tight. Even so, many weeks were lost.
The boiler tubes arrived at the end of June, and were then cut to length, cleaned, annealed and expanded into place. The regulator will also receive attention and, hopefully, the loco will pass its hydraulic examination.
The long term future of the loco is somewhat doubtful. The firebox will need further repairs, and although it may be possible to weld a circular boss in the firebox crown relatively cheaply, the loco is still likely to need a full set of tubes costing around £1,500. Will the money be available to pay for the repairs? We shall have to wait and see! – P.Aldridge
No.5 Sentinel – This loco has continued to work all of the passenger trains, and whilst running on the free coal found in the ex Lea Hall mineral wagons is very economical indeed. With the opening of the new track extension, bunker capacity is again becoming critical and may have to be further improved,Ken Judkins poses for the camera with his 200hp Sentinel during a demonstration at Cargo Fleet Steelworks in Middlesborough in the 1950s. The loco on the right is an earlier Sentinel rebuild of a conventional loco.
No.2 Lion – This loco is still awaiting a new set of washout plugs so that it can be hydraulically tested.
S100 – Work has started on moving the boiler from the site now required by the C & W Dept down to the loco shed yard. Now that the hornguide grinding machine has been perfected, work will start on the actual grinding process.
DL7 – This loco has stood with one of its cylinder heads missing for a number of weeks. Apart from a valve being stuck open, the valve seats are in an extremely bad condition, requiring re-machining and grinding in.
Fowler – This loco has again carried out all the shunting and works train duties without problem.
No.21 Diesel – Work has started on the restoration of this little loco with the cleaning and painting of the bodywork and frames.
No.21 in the Heritage Centre at Chasewater, 2011
Smith Rodley Crane – The crane has remained out of use and requires adjustment of its clutches before it can be used on its next big job – the building of Willow Vale platform.
This looks like being the year that the Railway Inspector finally pays us another visit, as he has written saying he will inspect our railway ‘in the summer’. If what he sees meets with his approval we may have a longer length of line to run on, if it does not we might not have a line at all. It is now up to all of us to do our best to ensure that he sees an improvement in the existing railway, and that the extension to Willow Vale and beyond meets his requirements.
Later this year ‘Lion’ should enter service, and hopefully after that, ‘Asbestos’, which means that by Gricers Day we could have three engines in steam together for the first time in nine years, and even the new platform fro them to run trains into. Let us just hope the Railway Inspector is impressed during his visit!
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – Work on this loco has continued through the winter months and in March it passed its visual/ultrasonic boiler inspection. Examination, however, has revealed that part of the firebox crown is nearing its limit on plate thickness and it is only a matter of time before serious repairs will be necessary. The boiler will now be prepared for its hydraulic test.
No.5 Sentinel – This loco also passed its boiler examination in March and again looks like being the only serviceable steam loco for at least the first half of the season. Repair work over the winter has included re-machining of the steam brake valve, fitting of a new cast fire grate and work on the paintwork in preparation for the ‘gasworks red’ livery to be applied as soon as weather permits.
No.2 Lion – A brand new saddle tank was delivered to Chasewater and temporarily fitted to the loco in January to check its dimensions; it was virtually perfect! Other work has included the installation of sliding cab shutters and the boiler has been washed out. The boiler now awaits the fitting of new washout plugs before the hydraulic test can be carried out.
S100 – Work has continued on this loco with the redesign of the hornguide grinding machine. Another of the four main leaf springs has been stripped, cleaned and re-assembled.
DL7 – This loco was taken out of service for a couple of weeks recently while the injectors were removed, overhauled and refitted.
Fowler – This loco has remained in service without problem over the winter hauling works trains to the extension pastWillow Vale.
Smith Rodley Crane – This vehicle has seen only minimal use lately although work has continued on its repair and restoration.
Permanent Way News
The majority of work carried out by this department recently has been concentrated on the extension of track pastWillowVale. Whilst the number of volunteers has fallen slightly, those brave enough to carryon through the worst of the winter have at least had a comfortable works train. The favourite formation for this appears for some reason to be: the Fowler diesel, the DMU centre car and the two GWR brake vans with, of course, the stove kept well stoked.
The concrete platform for Willow Vale Halt has yet to be collected from theSevernvalley Railway as it is planned to carry out this job when the evenings become lighter allowing longer hours to be worked if necessary.
One extra job urgently requiring attention is the repair of the bridge handrails, which having recently been repaired and increased in height, have now been totally destroyed by the local toe rags.
Carriage & Wagon News
Midland four-wheel passenger brake – This vehicle has remained sheeted over during the winter, but work will continue as soon as the weather improves.
Manchester, Sheffield & Lincoln six-wheel coach – Some progress has been made on this vehicle, but again the damp weather has limited the type of work that can be carried out.
Great Eastern six-wheel passenger brake – All of the doors have been removed from this vehicle for repair ‘off-site’, and the bodywork has been prepared and painted in yellow primer.
Wickham 2 car DMU E56171 & E50416 – The trailer car of this set has remained coupled to theGloucesterover the winter, and work has been carried out on refurbishment of the bar. A start has bee made on repairing, rubbing down and priming the bodywork of the power car ready for a repaint. Work has also been carried out inside, removing seats and tables to make room for re-decoration. Since the last issue of Chasewater News a preservation group dedicated to restoring the Wickham as a working DMU has been formed. This organisation is currently drawing up its proposed constitution which is expected to be similar to that of the Hudswell Group in that the DMU will remain at Chasewater.
Gloucestertrailer E56301 – Little work has been carried out on this vehicle over the winter and there are rumours that another society may be interested in purchasing it for preservation elsewhere. In the meantime it will be used on trains at Chasewater coupled to either the Wickham trailer or the new centre car.
Derby centre car W59444 – This coach arrived at Chasewater in January, having travelled from Tyseley diesel depot by low loader. Before it enters passenger service, it is planned to fit a bar as a replacement for the one in the Wickham trailer. Livery will probably remain BR blue and grey for the time being, although early BR carmine and cream has been rumoured as the intended replacement. One problem has become apparent in that being a centre car, it has no handbrake so it has to be marshalled between another braked vehicle and the loco or the buffer stops.
General News From The Line
It now seems that the large portacabin which had been intended for use as a station buffet will not now be coming to Chasewater. In view of this, work has started on renovating and converting the two smaller units which arrived in December to form a smaller buffet and separate kitchen. As this work is likely to take quite a while, catering on a limited scale will take place on the train and possibly in the Wickham power car once more. The portaloo is now in its final position next to the south end of the platform where it will be much appreciated by the loco dept. Work on its refurbishment is progressing well and a race is now on to see whether the buffet or portaloo opens for business first.
Human Resources
An interesting meeting of working members was held in March to discuss ideas to improve work output on the railway by providing more organisation and planning so that priorities can be agreed in advance and last minute panics avoided. To achieve this, four departmental ‘foremen’, listed below, were appointed, whose job it is to liaise with each other to agree priorities and to suggest suitable jobs for anyone arriving at the railway and wishing to help out.
Permanent Way Les Emery
Carriage & Wagon Dave Whittle
Loco Dept Tony Sale
Station & Site Steve Organ
If you don’t already have a project of your own and wish to help out, please contact any of the above people, or ask at the booking office where to find them.
About time for another Bits and Pieces! Thank you Nigel
127 – Chasewater Railway Museum Bits & Pieces
From Chasewater News January 1991
Editorial – Nigel Canning
At the end of this, another, year we have made further modest progress on our railway. As yet, the proposed platform at Willow Vale has not been built, but only because a pre-fabricated concrete one, well worth waiting for, has been acquired and awaits removal to Chasewater.
The fact that we have run for the whole year with only one steam loco is in some ways a disappointment, but on the other hand it does show that our engineering standards are as good as anyone’s with no failures having occurred.
With the main line steadily being extended towards the causeway, carriage and wagon restoration proceeding at a pace not seen at Chasewater for many years, and the station site and line in general becoming tidier and more businesslike by the week, 1991 could be the year when we do finally expand and prosper.
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – Progress on this loco is still very slow and as a result it is likely to be well into next year before it steams again. The boiler and firebox are slowly being cleaned for inspection and following removal of the firebox lagging, which left a lot of mess, the motion has been thoroughly cleaned.Photo: N.Canning
No.5 Sentinel – This is still the line’s only working steam loco and as such will work all the Christmas and New Year trains. It was painted in camouflage as WD 79632 for the military weekend in September and is now in red undercoat prior to being repainted in its original gasworks red livery.
A number of outstanding minor repairs have recently been carried out, including fitment of a new blower pipe and firing chute, re-machining of a leaking clack shut off valve, and rectification of an engine oil pressure problem followed by an engine oil change. The loco will shortly be fitted with a new fire grate to replace the rapidly disintegrating one currently held in place with a piece of angle iron secured to the sander pipe by fencing wire.
No.2 Lion – This loco is currently being fitted with sliding cab shutters and is likely to be hydraulic tested at the same time as Asbestos. The saddle tank has been sent away for repair by contractors and should return shortly in pristine condition.
S100 – The major work being carried out on this loco is still the construction of a machine for grinding the hornguides, which posed more problems than had originally been anticipated.
No.7 Ruston – This loco is still in good running order although there was a minor mishap in July. After its having stood unused for a number of weeks, the engine bent a pushrod during start-up. Further investigation revealed that one of the fuel elements in the injection pump was also seized. Repairs were affected fairly quickly and the engine appears to start more easily than it has for a long while.
No.9 Fowler – This loco is now running reliably and sharing shunting duties with No.7
Smith Rodley 5 ton crane – This vehicle has received a lot of attention recently in preparation for forthcoming work on the track. The bodywork is being repaired with new windows and a complete repaint. Work is also being carried out to repair the wooden floor and fit a guard around the open gearing in the cab.
Permanent Way News
A prefabricated concrete platform has been acquired from the Severn Valley Railway and will shortly be brought to Chasewater. This is obviously ideal for Willow Vale Halt and will be far superior to the sleeper built affair originally proposed.
Work has continued on extension of the track past Willow Vale in addition to maintenance of the existing running line. The increased number of working members mentioned in the last magazine seems to have been more than maintained to the extent that we are handling the 45ft and 60ft rails with relative ease. Unfortunately the overhead power lines which pass over this section of line preclude the use of the crane for quite a distance either side.
Carriage & Wagon News
Activities in this department have continued to increase so that there are currently a number of historic coaches and even wagons being worked on, as follows:
Midland four wheel passenger brake – Following extensive research, this vehicle is being restored to its original Midland Railway condition. This has so far involved the removal of various post-MR additions, such as the internal partition, door and a bench seat. Part of the roof is being rebuilt and various bad body panels renewed.
Manchester, Sheffield and Lincoln six wheel coach – Restoration of this vehicle has continued with renewal of broken windows and repair or replacement of damaged body panels.
Great Eastern six wheel passenger brake – Restoration of this long-abandoned vehicle has also recently commenced, initially with the stove, but also body panels and windows. Hopefully the boiler from S100 which has blocked its movement for a number of years will soon be removed to the shed yard allowing the Great Eastern to be moved again.
Ex Cammel Laird hopper wagon – Having been little used since the hopper body was removed for scrap a number of years ago, this wagon has now been completely decked over with chequer plate to form a very sound flat wagon. Minor repairs have also been carried out to the brake linkage and the whole thing painted in Tri0ang Big-Big Train bright blue.
Wooden five plank wagons – Both of the two examples of this type of wooden framed, wooden bodied wagons at Chasewater have badly deteriorated over the years. At last a start has been made on one of these to renew all the rotten timbers in the floor and sides.
DMU Coaching stock – The Gloucester and Wickham trailer cars have remained coupled together as our passenger train throughout the season. The left hand side of the Gloucester, which for some reason always seems to be more susceptible to body rot than the other, has received a few more patch repairs and a repaint.
The Wickham power car has remained in use as the station buffet. However, when the new portacabin is opened for business, this coach could re-enter passenger service, steam hauled, or even under its own power.
New Acquisition – One of our members has just purchased from BR via Tyseley diesel depot, a DMU centre car. Full details are not yet available, although it is No.59444, asbestos-free, in excellent condition and until very recently running on BR. Further details, and hopefully an article, will appear in the next magazine. This of course makes possible some very interesting train formations and raises the question ‘will we shortly be needing longer platforms?’
General News From The Line
A large portacabin has been acquired and will be put next to the booking office, and when fitted out will become the station buffet. Mains power will be provided from the newly rewired site supply and it is rumoured that running water will also be plumbed in.
Photo: N.Canning
Work has continued on tidying up the station area by clearing away the assorted rubbish which continually seems to appear from nowhere. Grass is now being encouraged to grow in the area in the middle of the run round loop to form a rough lawn and kept trimmed with a strimmer. The stationary engine displaced by the new buffet is likely to be permanently mounted in the middle of the loop, and possibly made operational by a buried pipe to a compressed air or steam supply from one of the locos.
Sewer pipes have been run from the portacabins and portaloo out into the culvert in the park. Most of the trench digging was done by a rented (cheaply!) JCB but a lot of work had to be finished off by hand. This involved around a dozen or so people and is another example of what can be achieved by our steadily expanding volunteer workforce.
Stop Press
Following a problem with the release of the portacabin mentioned above from its current owners, a further two smaller portacabins have been acquired and arrived on site on December 1st. Due to various problems, these units took two days to unload from the lorry and a further three Sundays to winch them through the fence and into position. There are plans afoot to make one of the cabins into a mess room for members, and the other into a washroom with showers, lockers, etc.
This year has seen a continued increase in volunteers and therefore in the amount of work carried out on the railway. For the first time in a long while a number of major jobs have been carried out simultaneously, such as trackwork, carriage and wagon repairs and loco maintenance, even when trains are running.
A lot still remains to be done, and with a visit from the Railway Inspectorate now promised within the next couple of months, it is even more important that this level of activity continues.
Following the Railway Inspector’s visit we should know exactly what work is required to extend the line, or indeed to continue running the existing section, and will be able to plan accordingly. After all, it would still be nice to run trains into a platform at Willow vale Halt later this year. (Nigel Canning – Editor))
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – Having been at a virtual standstill for a number of months, work has now re-commenced in earnest on the firebox repairs and preparation for the major boiler examination of this loco. A number of new tubes are to be purchased and will be fitted to replace those leaking when the loco was taken out of service. Hopefully the loco will re-enter service before No.5’s boiler certificate expires in October.Sentinel pausing at Willow Vale – Nigel Canning
No.5 Sentinel – This loco has so far handled all of this year’s trains. Recently adjustments have been made to the camshaft driven valve gear with, eventually, improved running as a result. Various minor steam leaks still remain to be attended to.
No.2 Lion – The new boiler tubes for this loco have now been fitted and work is progressing towards its first hydraulic examination.
S100 – Work is still progressing with the machining of the hornguides of this loco.
No.11 Alfred Paget – This loco received a very nice paint job and superficial restoration for the Bescot Open Day and has been placed on display at Brownhills West station.
No.7 – Ruston – This loco is still in good running order.
No.9 Fowler – Investigation into the starting problems of this loco which had been thought to be due to a damaged starter ring, revealed that in fact a multi-plate clutch built into the starter motor had become fouled with oil and was slipping under load. This clutch was cleaned and re-tensioned giving perfect first time starting on this loco.
Carriage & Wagon News
Work has recently started on two of our historic coaches, the Midland four-wheel passenger brake, and the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincoln Railway six-wheeler. Both have been in need of extensive renovation for some time, but now look set to receive it.
The Gloucester and Wickham trailer cars are still running coupled together to form the passenger train whilst the Wickham power car remains in use as the station buffet.
Permanent Way News
Brownhills West Loop – Nigel Canning
The new points at Brownhills West are now virtually complete along with their associated trap point set and lever frame. This means that we now have a complete run round loop for the first time in our railway’s history.
Weedkilling of the running line took place, rather belatedly, during May. Bad weather and financial restrictions having prevented this vital job being done earlier in the year. In addition, a number of worn sleepers have been renewed, and on particularly bad joint repaired. It is intended to grease the remaining fish plates on the line and re-pack any dipped joints in the next month or so.
The dramatic increase in members in recent months means that work continues even on event days when trains are running. In the near future the large steel gate at the shed yard entrance is to be moved down to the level crossing to complete the pair of gates there. A replacement for the shed yard has recently been donated in the form of a pair of wooden gates which when in position, will give slightly wider access for the large vehicles such as the coal merchant’s lorry.
The Museum will be open on Sunday, 5th June.11.00am– Entry from the rear of the heritage centre
124 – Chasewater Railway Museum Bits & Pieces
From Chasewater News April 1990
A telephoto view of a Sentinel hauled train passing the shed yard – Dave France
Editorial
This winter’s mild weather seems to have promoted a lot of activity at Brownhills West station, and with much of the work being carried out by new members. In addition to the trackwork mentioned in ‘PW News’, a hell of a lot of effort has been put in n the platform and buildings to the extent that this very public face of our activities is on the verge of looking even better than it did in 1982 before the old platform was demolished. Work already carried out includes re-levelling of the Booking Office and fitting of an extended canopy, installing an old GPO phone box on the platform, laying a concrete path to the buffet coach and laying of grassed areas at the back of the platform. If only we could keep this level of progress up for the rest of the season!
Locomotive News
No.4 Asbestos – This loco has now had all fittings removed and the tank lifted in readiness for its six-yearly boiler examination. A professional boilersmith has been contracted to carry out repairs around the foundation ring where the rivets have become wasted with consequent leakage past the inner wrapper. Work is also progressing on other minor repairs and adjustments and it is hoped that the loco will be back in service before Transport Scene.
No.5 Sentinel – This loco is still in working order, although drained down, having worked the Christmas and New Year trains. The recently re-routed ejector exhaust has proved to be a lot quieter, allowing the driver and fireman to chat politely across the cab when running. Only a few minor adjustments and a crank case oil change remain to be carried out before next season’s running.
No.2 Lion – Progress is still being made re-tubing the boiler and mounting of cab fittings.
S100 – Both crossheads have been separated from their piston rods, another job involving a great deal of heat and force. Preparations are also underway for the machining of the hornguides using a patent homemade machine which grinds as it sweeps as it cleans!
No.7 Ruston – This loco is still in good running order.
Fowler – This loco performs well once running, but due to a number of teeth missing from the starter ring is tricky to start when cold. The only recent minor failure was that of one of the vee belts which drives the air compressor. Looking on the positive side, the dynamo control box has now been rebuilt allowing the batteries to charge correctly.
Other locos – No work has been carried out on any other loco.
Carriage & Wagon News
A number of minor but important jobs have been carried out to the interior of the Gloucester and Wickham trailers which still remain coupled together. Hopefully the bodywork will be tidied up and repainted as soon as weather permits.
No other C & W work has been carried out.
Permanent Way News
Pete,Arthur & Steve ballast new track at Willow Vale – Dave France.
Quite a lot of progress is being made in this area despite the pitiful number of people involved. At last a start has been made on completing the run-round loop at Brownhills West by installing the missing turnout from the end of the platform across to the buffers on No.2 road. This work will be completed mostly using parts already on site, although a few additional timbers will probably have to be bought. In order to ease the construction of the new loop at Norton, a complete turnout has been purchased from the Baddesley Colliery Railway, currently being demolished. In addition to this, a large number of fishplate bolts have also been acquired involving four or five members making repeated trips to the site to unbolt them from the sidings there.
Work has continued to progress on the extension of track through the site of the new Willow Vale Halt towards the causeway. This is now likely to be curtailed slightly during work on Brownhills West loop and on the Willow Vale platform.
Operating
Sentinel 59632 eases stock out of (21G) Hednesford Road shed yard. – Dave France
Luckily this winter the weather has again been very mild and so there was no problem with water supplies for the locos, or in attracting passengers. The running of Christmas and New Year trains went smoothly and was financially successful.
Father Christmas was in attendance on 17th December and distributed presents to the children from his grotto in the ‘blue van’. On 31st December the mince pie specials did good business attracting plenty of people to ride on the railway.
On 28th January there was an extra steaming when the ARPS visited us following their meeting in Birmingham. In addition to this there was a car rally in the park so again we had a very profitable day.
The 1990 season proper looks set to start on Easter Sunday, which being a little later this year, will give us valuable extra time to carry out maintenance and repairs.
Any member wishing to volunteer to work on the train or on the station should obtain a roster form from the Booking Office.
Chasewater Railway Museum 