The Class A4 No.60010 Dominion of Canada, as photographed in March 2012. Obtained in September of 2010 as a limited edition locomotive, this engine was obtained as an express locomotive for operating passenger services. Moreover, the locomotive has special significance to myself as being my favourite steam locomotive - happily preserved today in its namesake country, with hope for a full cosmetic overhaul soon. Once the locomotive was listed for production, I knew that it would be entering my fleet, and so it is that No.60010 survives as a locomotive of the STC today. Only operating on a limited basis, this is one locomotive in the fleet that will ALWAYS be in operating order, no matter the cost - it will never be withdrawn from service for any extended periods of time.
The side profile of the locomotive, where the classic Gresley shape is portrayed beautifully here. In terms of mechanism, this locomotive is smooth and faultless - ample power to spare, and a decent top speed without being excessive. This locomotive has quality within it, yet is still very usable in all situations it's intended for. The drive is excellent, and the shape well-proportioned and decent.
The front section of the locomotive, with the cylinders and motion seen in partial detail as well as the nameplates. The shape is distinctive, and the purpose clear: speed, and plenty of it.
The front of the locomotive in closer profile, where the numberplate and iconic profile of the double-chimnied front end is seen.
The intricate and complex Walschaerts' valve gear, with even the most minute riveting detail represented above.
The cab and rear Cartazzi pony truck, featuring the detailed lining out, finely printed number and route markings, and the ornate Canadian crest on the cabsides.
A different look at the locomotive's cab, with the firebox also being seen in greater profile.
The cab of the locomotive, showcasing the intricate pipework and details of the Gresley cab. Valves, regulators and gauges are all present and fully legible - the locomotive is able to be used very well by the footplate crews fortunate enough to use it.
The tender, showing off the smooth sides of the corridor tender and the intricate lining out of the livery and crest - the British Railways late crest.
On the tender footplate, there is lots of additional details, including brakes and the dials and steps that serve their practical purposes. Visually the locomotive is complex, and stands out.
The rear of the tender, where (among other things), the corridor hatch, porthole window, and dummy knuckle coupler are all visible.
The front of the locomotive from a head-on perspective, where the numberplate, shedplate (34A) and the overall looks of the engine are captured to perfection. Overall this locomotive is a truly fine example of British engineering, which demonstrates the sheer power, capability, and interest that a locomotive like this can provide. Any example of this class, particularly one like this, is highly recommended for any railway.
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