Blandford1969

Thanks Clive - the boiler is a 6A - the grate was enlarged by adding a sloping doorplate after the first batch to increase the heating area. I will do some notes on the boilers although visually there are really only three visual variants Class 6 boiler - Domeless Class 6A boiler both domeless and with dome Internally however there were alterations to the boiler to try to improve it. Both of these boilers were 4' 9" at the firebox end and 4' 2" at the smokebox end - 6B boiler 4'9 to 4'6" - 7 of these boilers were built and 6 engines altered to be able to take them. Length between the tube plates was the same as on earlier boilers but the increase in size allowed the number of super heaters to be increased. I've made a start and am using the set of etch drawings I have to help, however there are some things I have not see photographic evidence of so there will be more questions along the way as we get to them. Duncan

I'm willing to have a go at a drawing based on the pipe and rod and other drawings and photos I have, however I am missing some dimensions. Simon would you be willing to share your tank and bunker drawings? In terms of the drawings here is the list with mine (combined dome and top feed) Pipe and Rod arrgt -end views D34-13821 Frame arrangement D34-13725 Motion arrangement D34- 13769 Tank Cab and bunker arrangement D34 13739 (is this the one you have Simon? Boiler arrangement D34 13542 Firebox (remember there were later variants including the larger boiler) D34 13543 Internal Pipe Arrangement D34 13667 Ashpan arrangement D34 13563 Pony truck - D34 13152 - I think we can use a standard LMS pony as also used on the stanier 2-6-4 as a copy - unless someone says it is totally different Smokebox D34 13705 Pony truck lub arrangement D34 13818 Lub arrangement for Cyls, Axleboxes, etc D34 13748 Arrangement of pipes and pads on boiler D34 13710 Continous blow down water and feed arrangements D34 13768 Sanding and desanding arrangement D34 1`3715 Brake block D37 15152 I have highlighted those useful for making a drawing as above. A lot of the basic dimensions on the side view are the same as the Fowler 2-6-2, however question 1 - is the width the same as the Fowler 2-6-2 at 8' 9 1/2 across and is the portion of the front platform the same width as on the Fowler? Duncan

HI All, Here is a photo of a 'pipe and rod' drawing of an early version with combined dome and top feed. Apologies if the quality is not very good, but I do not have a scanner big enough.

I have got a set of etch drawings from a 7mm manufacturer who was happy for me to use them as a basis for one in 4mm. Sadly I have never had the time to do anything with them and they would need redrawing. I agree a 4mm kit would be fab.

I should have said that while this class appears to have been unloved you really need photographic evidence for your chosen engine. Earlier engines had keyholes in the tank for filling the sanders, which later engines did not have....but I have got photos of earlier engines loosing the key holes and later ones getting them. Next the engines had cranked tank vents which again on later engines were then straight pipes against the cab, again there are examples of changing over.

When you say drawings which ones are you thinking of?

Dare I ask about progress on the Fowler 2-6-2?

For those who may be interested at Kidder museum on Saturday 2nd Jan they have their Photo fair with lots of dealers from 10am to 4.30pm.

It will make a lovely model. I've not seen any photos of WC/BOB at Bude in the 50's but there are some with far more knowledge on here. Are you able to share the drawings on this thread?

I'm not sure if Sidmouth's boiler was ever used for measuring up for TV at Bridgnorth in the end (it has no e in it) and has languished in the yard since its arrival. It would be nice to see another West Country restored.

stunning, we will look forward to seeing more

Some who missed out on Royal Scot might be interested to know that it will be running on ordinary services on the October 17th, 18th, 24th & 25th. Sadly not a day I have a turn so wont get another go.

Steam tests were carried out over last weekend with the insurance test on Monday. Fingers crossed she is ready in time for the Manor 50 event.

Good to know at least the Fowler 2-6-2 is waiting a test build and that a Stanier is a possibility, even if some time in the future.

I forgot about the smoke deflector which on the driver's side is modified as the air pump parts are behind it so is different to before preservation

Here's it as well on Saturday with some nice detail video and yes I was seeing how slow she would move onto the train,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BpfeeeirEY&spfreload=10

Indeed it was a good trip, I offered them two West Country's and a 28xx in exchange for it, but they would not take it. In terms of the differences to BR days these are as follows: -Air brake pedestal to the left of the reverser (I was surprised expecting a standard Stanier one which I had assumed would have been fitted on rebuilding. -Above that you have got the air gauges (which partly obstruct your view out of the front window (although I normally drive with my head out, so its not a problem) -To the right of the reverser is the button for the AWS again a new fitting -On the Fireman's side there is an extra box in the corner (useful for sitting on when running tender first) which you cannot really see -What you can see on the fireman's side is some form of a lubricator which is tied in with the air brake system -There is a bell in the roof on the drivers side. In terms of the experience as I have posted elsewhere along the lines of an old cigar advert. Happiness is ............. a Royal Scot. She goes like an electric train with fantastic acceleration and the ejector is so good you can leave braking a bit longer in the knowledge you can drop the vacuum further and then it will blow off sufficiently quickly to do an effective but smooth stop, especially useful with a busy platform. I will be honest in not wanting to get off her. In looking across at the level you posted I could not see clearly under the boiler and agree with where you are going. Your doing a great job with the model and it will be nice to see if finished. If you want any more shots let me know as talking with the support crew they were suggesting it may stay for a few more weeks.

The Stanier ones are certainly an attractive looking engine (to me anyway) that and the Fowler ones also appeared at quite a few places have always had a interest for me, well that's my excuse anyway. Roll on kits for both..

Did he mention at all the Fowler one he was working on?

It does sound very much like there is a jenny under the cab or its an electric train from the noise from the tyres, which apparently is from the way they were turned. (hint for a good wind up and it being fitted with a ringfield motor) It is a fantastic engine and a credit to the team who have restored her. Its brake is one of the best LMS ones I have ever had and you can leave the last braking in platforms later, which when busy is better than crawling at one or two miles and hour and risk doors opening; then put a larger application in and know it will blow off to give a nice stop. The parts I noticed were mainly stamped 6100, however the reverser was from 23. Whichever it is I can see why they were well liked engines.

I've a 1960s neg that does not have the bell, why it would be gone I have no idea, but personally I prefer no bell (its easier to get round with an oil bottle as there is not much space on the front platform

Hi Tim, Here are my shots. I had not seen the others when I took mine. She goes like a dream and has a brake to die for.... wonderful. Sadly there is a screen in the smokebox so it is not possible to see the tubeplate. Kind regards Duncan

My office for the morning. Happiness.............................................................is a Royal Scot.

Tim, No worries, it really will be no trouble. I will probably pop down on Friday evening just to have a walk round her. I admit to being rather excited at the realisation I will drive one on Saturday. The only question is if I bring my Pines Express headboard out as I have a neg of Royal Scot leaving Bath on the northbound Pines. Are you ok if I post the photos into this thread or would you prefer them elsewhere? best wishes Duncan

Hi When you say footplate height shots under the boiler what are you trying to get, I might be able take something while oiling her up on Saturday am. I will see what else I can take for you. Best wishes Duncan