|
Historic wagon added to the collection
31st August 2011
The opportunity to rescue a most unusual wagon has resulted in an addition to the collection. Built in 1943 for the Deutsche Reichsbahn as a tank wagon, its purpose was to carry rocket fuels to the Peenemunde test range where scientists were developing Hitler's "terror weapons" the V1 and V2. Captured by the Allies and recovered to Britain along with much of the Peenemunde hardware, the tanks, which were aluminium, were scrapped and the wagons pressed into military service as flat wagons.
Recently, Andrew became aware that the wagon was in danger of being scrapped, and believing it to be the last to survive, managed to purchase it. Peak Rail has agreed to house it at Rowsley, and the wagon will be moved there during September. It will add colour and authenticity to future Peak Rail "Warring 40s" events.
On more general matters, "Libby" - Yorkshire Engine Co 2940/65 - has moved into the workshops at Rowsley and a determined effort is being made to complete the restoration which has been in abeyance while other pressing projects (like 14 901) took precedence. The lower cab side sheets, rotted through where damp coal dust had built up under the floorboards, have been cut out and fresh metal will be added shortly. It is intended to remove all the casing parts for proper cleaning and painting. The torque converter oil reservoir is to be repositioned on the fuel tank front and a new air blast torque converter cooler matrix (recovered from a loco formerly at Poole Harbour) will be added and the converter circuit re-plumbed.
At Murton there is a slight delay in completing the vacuum exhauster installation on "Pluto" when it became apparent that the ports are 7/8" BSP - a VERY rare thread in this century! - which neccessitates specially-machined hose tails.
More news shortly!
|
