As of May 1, 2012, AT&SF Class SW1 No.2325 has been sold to a locomotive workshop consortium. The locomotive was proving to be far too much trouble to maintain, and given its relative inexpensive cost by comparison it was decided by the railway that this locomotive would be better suited to a different railway operating company.
The locomotive has been listed as 'Sold' in the main registers. Officially this locomotive is not expected to be replaced by any other locomotives at any point s
The 'Mastodon-Type' locomotive, No.3, which arrived on the railway in May 2012. A large locomotive with lots of presence, this design of engine dates to the 1880s and was used in various forms for years - the builder's plate indicates the famous Rodgers company as the builders of the locomotive. In terms of wheel arrangement, the 4-8-0 was a powerful and capable evolution of the classic 4-6-0 Ten-Wheeler design, and was named the 'Mastodon' style (also being known as the 12-Wheeler style, in the
No.2325 has been withdrawn from service following a failure of one of its power bogies; the cause is believed to be poor construction of the bogie, causing its failure.
The locomotive had completed its initial trials successfully, but began to suffer from performance issues afterwards - the motor was functioning correctly, but the gears in the bogie were not engaging, and thus the locomotive was immobile. Upon inspection, it was deduced that damage had been done to the bogie unit itself, whe
The ALCO Steam Switcher as photographed in March 2012. Considered the flagship locomotive of the Sumtown Tramway Company, this locomotive was originally obtained prior to 2007, and has performed flawlessly for years. As an unnamed and unnumbered locomotive, it was perfect to add to the fleet of the time as a new locomotive, without raising too many questions as to its ownership - however, it has been verified that this locomotive is an exceptional performer regardless of the owner. Minor modific
One of the American diesel locomotives obtained during April 2012, this locomotive was brought in to work the basic shunting duties with the American rolling stock. An AT&SF Porter Hustler-Type switching diesel, this locomotive was bought cheaply - and although in some ways it displays these qualities very clearly, in others it is actually a decent locomotive. The only modification made to the locomotive thus far has been the removal of the original couplers, to be replaced with knuckle-styl
One of the American diesel locomotives obtained during April 2012, this locomotive is an example of the venerable SW1 diesel switchers built by EMD in the 1930s and 1940s. This example was obtained cheaply as a working locomotive, and has proven to be a very interesting-looking locomotive, with several comparisons being drawn between it and No.7401. With a bell, a fully-functional headlamp, and a somewhat substantial weight, this locomotive is of a lesser quality but does have some decent featur
One of the new locomotives to be obtained in April 2012, 'Emily' was brought in primarily as an exhibition locomotive. With single wheelers being a part of the STC's past, the practicality and use of a locomotive like this in modern times is considered quite laughable. However, the locomotive was not intended for heavy hauling of goods - this locomotive was intended for use on light excursion services to the lake and back, and to be used as a means of attracting more visitors and investment towa
A slight update regarding No.5972, and unfortunately it's not one for the better - I took too long in waiting to obtain the parts needed for a complete cosmetic overhaul of the locomotive; they have all sold out. The only options left are to either repair the existing bodywork and tender, or else simply leave the entire piece alone.
Disappointment looms for this locomotive's future; it will continue to survive but at this point even its future as an engine on public display are in doubt...
The Norris Type locomotive, photographed in March of 2012. Out of service for some time, this locomotive was once touted as the first engine to operate the Sumtown Tramway Company's rails (although it is certainly not the first locomotive operated by myself). Unique, simple yet elegant in ist own way, this locomotive is in need of some work before it runs again, including attempting to find some of the root problems behind its failings - for now, it is in a very presentable condition, and still
Class 57xx No.5705, as of March 2012 when these photographs were taken. The locomotive had been out of use for several months prior to these photos being taken, and had to be reassembled to its current state of a rolling engine. Obtained in 2008 from unknown origins, this engine's past is very murky - what is known is that this locomotive was brass-built, operating relatively smoothly prior to its withdrawal after a disastrous overhaul gone wrong.
The side of the locomotive, showing off th
Just a few updates from the line today:
-I am considering the fates of several locomotives in the fleet. Some engines will continue to exist and survive, while others may not be as fortunate...
-The railway may get some new stock in a couple of weeks time, pending the annual railway exhibition....
-Updates to the existing fleet, like chassis replacements and overhauls, may commence this summer...
I am also aware that not all the current engines have their profiles up yet - these will c
In 2010, I took a trip to the local railway exhibition, where I got the opportunity to see many of the finest railway lines around in full operation. Several examples of railway practice from across the world were on display, including several examples from the mountains of North America, the beaches of Southern England, and even a narrow-gauge industrial complex. The photo opportunity was sadly missed as cameras were unavailable for capturing the event for posterity - all that remains are the m
No.5972, Hogwarts Castle, in a partially rebuilt state in 2012. The locomotive had been withdrawn for a few years prior to these photos being taken, and was quickly pieced together again for photographing. Once the strongest engine in the fleet, it has since been replaced by more powerful locomotives - although this does not detract from the locomotive's ability and style in the slightest. The classic profile of the locomotive is shown here.
The side view, showing the locomotive's classic
The John Bull, as it first appeared on the line when bought in 2009. A sturdy and capable engine, and one with the distinction of being the oldest operable steam locomotive in the world. The motor for this locomotive is found within the tender, allowing for the locomotive itself to display a relatively high level of detail in this unique and original piece of locomotive history.
The side of the locomotive, showing its unique profile. The locomotive is all plastic, save for the wheel assemb
The Class S1, No.383, reasssembled cosmetically for photographing. It is a European locomotive, Swedish and within the 20th Century, and is a 2-6-4T. Numbered 383, I purchased this locomotive as a non-runner, and have since taken it apart to try to get it running again - if this proves impossible, it will need to be converted into a rolling static exhibit.
The side of the locomotive, showing where the motor used to reside. This locomotive is an old Lima-built engine, unfortunately employin
No.2991 Salty, as delivered to the Sumtown Tramway a few years ago. While not as accurate as a traditional Class 07 diesel (owing to modifications made at Crova's Gate before arrival at the Sumtown), this locomotive is still quite an exceptional looking locomotive. The only fault is that the drivetrain is not as robust as the appearance of No.2991, not having as much durability or solidity as the more traditional and well-built machines.
The side profile of No.2991, showing the details imp
The 'American' Type locomotive - this example being painted in the guise of the Union Pacific's No.119. With metal handrails, ornate bells and domes, and a cowcatcher, this locomotive truly epitomizes the 'Wild-West' era of the United States - any railway fan should consider having an iconic locomotive such as this for their line, if only as a novelty. This, truly, is a locomotive that encapsulates the magic and mystery of the railway.
The side profile of the locomotive - as was mention
The Class 5101 Prairie Tank, No.5108, as delivered. Note the hallmark GWR traits, such as the copper-capped funnel, the brass safety valve, and the other little features that cement this locomotive's place in the world.
The side profile of the engine. A classic shape, the Large Prairie type is perfect as a mixed-traffic design for the railway - in the future, it may be worth considering bostering the fleet with a second large tank engine design - possibly a Stanier, or a Thompson design
The Davenport-Type Co diesel shunter, the first miniature locomotive obtained for the line. Small but sprightly, it is powered by a three-pole motor, and has minimal low speed control as a result. A headlight (which needs replacing, though the locomotive operates perfectly well without it), bell and exhaust stack help to make this a unique and distinctive diesel shunter - a perfect locomotive to build the line and add to the flavour of the railway.
The side of the locomotive - detailing
No.4472 Flying Scotsman, as it currently exists today. A striking Gresley Pacific, and the only surviving member of its class, this locomotive was obtained in May of 2010 as a classic example of fine British steam. Strong and powerful, its fine form is represented well here, with its iconic profile being displayed in this photograph.
The side-view of the locomotive, showing the profile of this distinctive locomotive further. Though in some ways it is rather basic, in others it is well-deta
Class A1X No.55 Stepney, as it arrived in July 2011, is coupled to the Bluebell's Maunsell high-window brake coach No.6575. The detail on these items is stunning when viewed up close and, even though the price was a bit steep for what was received, it must be said that the level of detail is enough that it is somewhat justified.
The traditional profile of No.55. The details on this model, despite its origins as a Dapol locomotive from the 1980s, are very good. Separately fitted handrail
No.1, 'Thomas.' The world-famous tank engine has made appearances everywhere - so not much more needs to be said or seen here. I will, however, say that the drivetrain in this engine is definitely NOT up to par with Hornby's offerings - Hornby may be more expensive and not as accurate in television-series looks, but its powertrain and performance, traction-tire or no, is far better than this locomotive.
The side view, showing the exemplary looks of the locomotive.
The rear view
No.5053 Earl Cairns. A truly spectacular locomotive from any angle, this one was obtained in 2011 from the annual railway exhibition - with a markdown of 33% off the initial cost! Naturally I swooped in to pick it up, passing upon the Class 9F for another time. The locomotive has no extra detail fitted at this time - it hardly needs it, when one looks at its shape and fine livery application.
The nameplate, in true Swindon fashion. One decent thing to point out is that the locomotive is
The locomotive as it arrived, August 2011. A surprise, indeed: even I wasn't expecting to obtain this locomotive - however, I do not regret the decision whatsoever. A unique design of Mallet-type articulated locomotive (one that few would be able to claim as their own with myself), this engine has superior pulling power and is a unique locomotive to haul some American freight when needed.
The side profile, showing how massive this locomotive is. This is easily the biggest tank engine I hav
The standard shot of the locomotive, when it first arrived on the line in January 2011. Already amazing detail can be seen, from the crisp paintwork to the external handrails and leaf-springs found on and around the locomotive.
The nameplate and builder's plates are a tad unrealistic in this instance, but the rest of the locomotive pulls together so well you hardly notice. The plates below are actually legible, which is astounding. The outside driving rods are a nice addition and it's good
