Two new B17s make progress

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NEW-build B17 ‘Footballer’ 4-6-0 No. 61662 Manchester United, currently under construction at the Mizens Railway near Woking, by a group from within the NBL Preservation Group, is taking shape.

Recent work parties have focused on making the front end of the locomotive look as presentable as possible in readiness for the venue’s

Christmas season

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Recent work has focused on attaching the running board either side of the smokebox. The footplate framing has been extended along the base of the smokebox and new steelwork is on order to form the left side front end footplate section.

New B17 No. 61662 Manchester United at the Mizens Railway. NBLPG

The left side front footplate was securely fitted into place in November and steel for the right side is now on order. The group currently has a tender top and frame, cab, smokebox and frame (mostly uncut).

Another new-build B17 project being undertaken by the unconnected B17 Steam Locomotive Trust sees the construction of No. 61673 Spirit of Sandringham.

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There is now enough money to buy the first driving wheel at a cost of £10,000, after 31 donations have been made. It will use the pattern from A1 Pacific No. 60163 Tornado’s wheels.

The frames have been erected at the Llangollen Railway, while other parts such as the dragbox have been manufactured and delivered to Llangollen.

Read more News and Features in Issue 236 of HR – on sale now!

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