UPDATE ON EX-GWR LOCOMOTIVE No 6695 - February 2009

Report from Nigel Clark - dated 3rd Feb 2009
6695 Locomotive Group
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Ex-GWR 0-6-2T locomotive No. 6695 reverses at Swanage signal box during the Swanage Railway's Autumn Steam Gala 2007 - Photograph copyright Andrew P.M. Wright

Nigel Clark writes:

For much of 2008 loco 6695 had been out of traffic for an extensive axlebox overhaul professionally undertaken by West Somerset Restoration at their Williton workshops. This overhaul included replacement of all coupled wheel crown bearings, alignment of horn faces and replacement of horn liners, general fettling of axleboxes and keeps, attention to radial truck thrust faces, and revised lubrication.

The opportunity has also been taken to have the locomotive weighed (undertaken by Riley & Sons) to ensure the correct weight on each axle which should help to prevent further problems. The standard of workmanship by West Somerset Restoration has been to the highest quality plus their friendliness and willingness to assist in every way gives us no hesitation in recommending their services to any loco owner.

Ex-GWR 0-6-2T locomotive No. 6695 stands ready at Bishops Lydeard with the scheduled goods train to Williton on Thursday 2nd Otober 2008. Unfortunately, to the disappointment of visitors, this service was then cancelled at the last minute due to late running of earlier services.

Following running-in 6695 entered traffic, under short term hire, on the West Somerset Railway, appearing at the Autumn Steam Gala, Somerset in Autumn and Winter Steam Festival events as well as working several Steam Engineman courses and the odd Quantock Belle dining train. Apparently the engine has become quite popular with the crews. She is currently winterised and will be spare/cover until the Spring Steam Gala when she is again booked to appear.

Immediately following the WSR Spring Gala, 6695 will move to the South Devon Railway (utilising their new higher axle loading) for a short stay which includes appearing at the their 40th Anniversary Gala. Towards the end of April 6695 will return home to the Swanage Railway to take up normal operational duties.

Ex-GWR 0-6-2T locomotive No. 6695 is lowered onto its driving wheelset in the workshops at Williton.
Accuracy with this first set was vital and the most critical.

The axlebox overhaul and weighing has cost in excess of £60,000 and the Group would welcome contributions towards these costs. Donations or enquiries for shares should be sent to 6695 Locomotive Group, 54 Rempstone Road, Merley, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 1RP.

Swanage Railway's 6695 Locomotive Group always welcomes help and support. For further details of how to join us and to see further information on the specification and history of 6695, please visit our dedicated homepage at http://swanagerailway.co.uk/6695/index.htm by clicking here. You will find background information on the locomotive and links to all 6695 news items.

Nigel Clark
6695 Locomotive Group