Royal Scots Grey Engine Appeal | |
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The repair and overhaul of Napier D-18-25B Engine number 413 began recently, this is the rail engine which suffered a catastrophic failure around Joan Croft Junction, just north of Doncaster on 6th September 2006, whilst working between London Kings Cross and Edinburgh with The Railway Touring Company’s ‘Autumn Highlander’ charter. Interestingly this engine was one of the original units installed in to D9000 when originally built at English Electric’s Vulcan Foundry in 1960, hence our keen desire to concentrate at this stage on getting this engine back in to top form for further service in ‘Royal Scots Grey’ and should also ensure we can return to mainline twin engine operation. | |
| The engine has now been completely dismantled at a marine diesel engine specialist’s facilities in the North of England, which required the manufacture of various ‘special tools’ to complete the task. This has included completely stripping the cylinder block assemblies, which are the real ‘Achilles Heel’ of a complex Deltic engine. All removed and re-useable component parts are in the process of being thoroughly cleaned and inspected. Following investigation it appears most likely that B2 exhaust piston crown became detached from the main piston housing due to retaining nuts becoming loose leading to the substantial damage apparent at the time. Upon inspection the parts which have suffered have been 2 con-rods and attached pistons, Crankcase and cover plate, cylinder liner, 4 cylinder block retaining bars and a scavenge blower drive shaft. | |
| Recent work has also focussed on assessing other areas for potential damage and we have found many parts including the relevant and the other two crankshafts to still be in excellent condition. Work is now focusing on machining the engine cylinder blocks and cylinder liners by specialists in preparation for re-assembly, as well as obtaining a few parts that we do not have available as spares. In certain areas this will involve having parts specifically manufactured as they are not easily available and after investigation where a few possible spare parts have remained for many years, we have found it more cost effective to have new parts made rather than purchasing second hand, as prices quoted were simply un-realistic. At the same time we are having a complete set of injectors and fuel pumps overhauled, new ‘hydraulic type’ long lasting PTFE hoses made and have sourced or had specially manufactured all required O-rings and gaskets etc. that will be required for the overhaul of this engine and also enough to allow for future overhauls on our other 3 complete engines. | |
| So at this stage, basically things are progressing soundly, we are at a very crucial stage with the most precise work (cylinder block assemblies) being undertaken. There is no real time-scale when the work will be completed and we will be in a position to remove the number 2 power unit from the locomotive so that all ancillary parts, such as the phasing case, collector drum, generators, governor etc. can be retro-fitted to engine 413 and the complete power unit re-united with 55 022. | |
| Donations towards this work, which should hopefully allow us all soon to experience twin engine Napier mainline passenger operation, either from an on board or line-side view are greatly appreciated, helping us to achieve our aims and give everyone the entertainment they clearly enjoy. If you can help and wish to contribute, no matter how small an amount, towards these huge costs, we'd be extremely grateful to hear from you. Please use the new Donations facility on this website (via Paypal). Thanks very much.... | |
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