THE latest locomotive to be returned to steam after being rescued from Barry scrapyard will be launched into traffic during the East Lancashire Railway’s March 8-10 spring steam gala.
BR Standard 2-6-4T No. 80097 moved under its own power on October 18 for the first time since July 1965 (HR 250), but was withdrawn again after the driver’s side centre wheel ran hot during trials and the damaged white metal bearing needed to be replaced.
Owner the Bury Standard 4 Group carried out further work during January 5-6, including adjustments to the springs, welding on the rear step brackets, resealing of the chimney and the fitting of felt dust pads.
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A hot crosshead slider scuppered a planned loaded test run set for January 11, but the problem was fixed the following day.
No. 80097 began running again on January 13, and on January 18 was given a loaded test, hauling Class 45 Peak diesel No. 45108.
During trials in traffic on the next two days, No. 80097 topped and tailed service trains with GWR 2-8-0T No. 4270. Afterwards, No. 80097 returned to the group’s workshop to be painted.
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