Roarer Restoration

Posted on 25th July 2010 06:52

Following restoration work over the first half of 2010 the control circuits of 85101 have been re-energised. Extensive testing of the locomotive is being undertaken including the first operation of the locomotives' tap changer since its' withdrawal from service in 1991.

 MR

87002 hauls Three Peaks charity train

Posted on 28th June 2010 11:41

Between Thursday 24th and Saturday 26th June, 87002 hauled the electric legs of the Three Peaks Challenge charity train, from London to Crewe, and back from Mossend, near Glasgow, to London.  The tour, organised by the Railway Children charity ferried participants in this year's Three Peaks race to Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis.

This journey also marked the first appearance of 87002 at London Euston since preservation - a welcome return to old haunts!  The train was formed of the Rail Blue Charters first class Mk3 set, with Wrexham and Shropshire's 67012 in the rake for the non-electrified sections.

(Photo by Paul Steane)

OH 

ETL acquires 86424

Posted on 3rd June 2010 10:45

The group's company, Electric Traction Ltd, has purchased 86424 from Network Rail.  As the only other surviving Class 86/4, its acquisition solves the wheelset problem on 86401, discovered two-and-a-half years ago, while under restoration for main-line operation.

A bogie swap will be carried out in due course, as resources allow.  86424 is not preserved, however ETL has no plans at present to dispose of it.

OH 

87002 premier tour - 10th September

Posted on 3rd June 2010 09:16

On 10th September, just a couple of days shy of the 50th Anniversary of the inaugural WCML electrified service, 87002 will haul a Rail Blue Charters excursion from Watford to Edinburgh.  For full details see RBC's website.

OH 

Mail contract ends

Posted on 3rd June 2010 08:41

The supply of standby locomotives for GBRf's mail contract ended on 31st May.  For the last two years ACLG, through its company ETL, has supplied 86101 and 87002 for use as emergency cover, with both locomotives seeing extensive use heading the Royal Mail services during the bad weather in early 2010.

Both locomotives performed extremely well and are now taking a well earned rest, pending future use elsewhere.  The group's main line team remained instrumental throughout the contract in the support of these locomotives, providing back up and assistance to the maintenance teams at both LNWR Crewe, and LOROL Willesden.  Our thanks to everyone who has helped to keep the group's flagship locomotives doing what they were designed for!

OH