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Extracts from Newsletter 53 issued
to members in Oct. 2009
2009 has remained extremely quiet for the West Coast 33's although 33 207 put on a fabulous solo performance on the Joint Line Railtours 'The Merry-Le-Bone' on 5th September providing the first and likely only mainline passenger action of the year. This nearly didn't happen as WCRC initially refused to guarantee the provision of a Class 33 and offered 2 x 37 instead. It was somewhat ironic that they then couldn't find enough Class 37's and offered the 33 instead!! All this on the Tuesday prior to the tour!
33 025 :remains out of use at Carnforth and has not worked as yet in 2009. Rumours abound that WCRC would swap it for a Class 47 given the chance!
33 029 : also remains out of traffic at Carnforth.
33 207 : has thankfully returned to service and has flown a solo flag for the Class on the mainline in 2009. The locomotive had its annual summer outing to Machynlleth as standby for the Cambrian steam specials, working the ECS from Carnforth to Crewe on 24th July/09 before running round and travelling on the rear of the stock as steam 76079 took over for the remainder of the journey. The locomotive was not required to cover any of the steam booked workings throughout August but did venture back to Crewe on xx to collect a further coach to add onto the formation. With the season over, the locomotive worked the ECS back to Carnforth throughout on 29th August before working the Joint Line Railtours 'The Merry-Le-Bone' tour from Worksop to Marylebone and on the mini-tour from Quainton Road back to Marylebone on 5th September (top and tail with 37 516). The locomotive had a further mainline venture on 17th September when it ran light from Carnforth to Tyseley to collect a coach to return to Carnforth.
33 019 : worked without fault at the Battlefield Line Diesel Gala on 18th-21st September/09.
33 021 : remains at Tyseley with its future somewhat uncertain.
33 002 : has enjoyed much use since its triumphant return to operational service this summer, most recently on 3rd October/09 when it replaced the Class 25 at short notice due to the latter suffering flat batteries. The oldest Crompton is next due to work at the Gronk Aid gala on 7th November 2009.
33 008 : has been the subject of good progress in recent months. The generator set was returned from Bowers after overhaul and replacement of damaged bearings. As a reminder this is the unit that was originally in 33053 (33053 has 33046's generator set).This was refitted to the loco in August and has been aligned by Kev Cook. The power unit / turbo are now being reassembled. While the generator set was out plenty of needle-gunning, welding and painting was done in that area. We have also stripped down the traction motor blowers and overhauled them as well as fitting a new overhauled compressor. While this work has been going on, major surgery has commenced on no1 cab. All skin has been removed from the driver's cab side and framework repaired and primed. On the cab front itself, about 12inches of metal has been cut off to reveal corroded framework at the joint with the cab floors. This is now being repaired before attention turns to the cab window surrounds. The plan is for an engine start up in the New Year and a desire to have 33008 to star at the September 2010 diesel gala at the Battlefield Line to celebrate its 50th year!.
33 012 : continues to undergo overhaul at Eastleigh Works with recent attention detailing the removal of the heat exchanger for overhaul. Elsewhere wiring is continuing, allow with the fitting of TPWS equipment and slack adjusters are being overhauled. Nameplates were removed on 30th August/09 for return to the Swanage Railway. The engine room is in the process of being repainted and the remaining air tanks have been removed ready for testing. Completion to mainline standards now looks likely to be 2010. See the 71a Group website at www.71a.co.uk
33 035 : has a successful engine start up for the first time in about 13 years, at Barrow Hill on 13th September 2009. Extensive bodywork repairs continue. Promising progress for potentially the next Crompton comeback?
33 048 : operated the Saturday diesel diagram on 15th/29th August/09 which could be its final turns of the year as it is not booked to appear at the mixed traction event in October.
33 053 : continues to perform well at the Mid Hants. Aside from routine maintenance and damage to handrails, there has been nothing else to report. The loco is used most days on works trains and stock moves. She also regularly assists on the RAT train.
33 057 : can now be started from both cab ends as work continues towards operational restoration.
33 103 : has continued to perform regularly at the Swanage Railway but has suffered collision damage in late August/early September when it struck the side of the DMU. The locomotive has suffered a loss of cab side handrail, several large cabside scrapes and the loss of a snowplough all on cab no.1 end as a result of the collision. The locomotive remains in service with its most recent use being to haul the ECS of the Spitfire Tours 'Purbeck Growler' railtour from Norden to Swanage on 26th September. 33 108 : remains under repair in the roundhouse at Barrow Hill with all cylinder liners currently removed for repair.
33 109 : has seen regular use at its new temporary home at the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway following its debut at the Diesel Gala on 10th - 12th July/09. The locomotive then operated a private charter detailing 4 full line return trips on 28th September and is booked to operate at the next diesel gala on 24th/25th October and then the diesel turn (3 return trips) on 31st October (with 47 105 providing heat). Finally, prior to its return to the East Lancs Railway in January 2010, the locomotive will take part in the diesel event on the 27th December 2009.
33 110 : has returned to traffic following extensive bodywork repairs resplendent in BR Departmental Grey together with a fitting St Blazey lizard depot plaque (on one side - cab no.2)! The locomotive made its first passenger runs for 3 years at the Autumn Diesel Gala on 26th/27th September 2009. A week later it made a further 3 return trips on 3rd October and will hopefully be a regular performer in 2010.
33 111 : has now had a complete set of numbers and BR arrows applied on 25th July/09 ahead of its use at the Swanage Carnival event. The locomotive also has had a sticker 'Hot Dog' name applied on one side on the same date. The locomotive has seen frequent use over the summer and most recently worked the ECS of the Spitfire Railtours 'Purbeck Growler' from Swanage to Norden on 26th September.
33 116 : on the other hand remains numberless! The locomotive has seen regular use operating in push-pull mode with the 4 BIG unit at the Great Central Railway including 3 days intense use at the September Diesel Gala on 11th-13th September/09. It's final outing of 2009 should be the 1215 Loughbrough - Leicester and 1300 return on 14th November 2009. The Great Central Railway is advertising another winter diesel running weekend on 9th/10th January 2010 which the locomotive may take part in.
33 202 : operated some passenger trains at the Mangapps Farm Railway on 29th-31st August/09 and was named 'Dennis G Robinson' on 31st August 2009 in memory of a keen volunteer at the museum site.
33 208 : awaits transfer to Shackerstone to enable repairs/overhaul to take place.
Extracts from Newsletter 52 issued
to members in July. 2009
2009 has been extremely quiet for the West Coast 33's with no mainline action to report apart from a brief outing for 33 207 in June/09. The first 6 months of the year had seen both 025 and 207 temporarily surrender their OTMR black boxes to 37's and 47's as WCRC awaited new supplies to be delivered. The Cromptons clearly do not represent a priority as 37's/47's become the fleet standard for the operator. On a positive note, there is a railtour planned for 5th September by Joint Line Railtours, "The Merry-Le-Bone" featuring a WCRC 33 and WCRC 37 in top and tail mode from Worksop to Marylebone with a mini tour out to Quainton Road and back. Marylebone is particularly rare track for a Crompton on passenger!
33 025 :has not worked as yet in 2009, giving up its OTMR box to return Class 37/47's to the mainline. Plans for 2009 did detail some top engine work.
33 029 : frustratingly still remains out of traffic at Carnforth and on TOPS was moved to N/ONE status in June which is ominous!
33 207 : like 33 025, had not worked a train in 2009 with its OTMR box removed, until 10th June/09 when following an exam and the refitting of its OTMR black box, it ventured onto the mainline briefly to collect 47 492 from the former Steamtown shed at Carnforth and tow the locomotive to the local DBS sidings ready for road collection. On 1st July, the locomotive worked the 0Z33 0800 Carnforth - Hellifield and 5Z33 1130 return, collecting 5 coaches, top and tailed with 47786.
33 019 : worked without fault at the Battlefield Line Diesel Galas on 25th/26th April/09 as well as operating over the Easter period. Next advertised running is at the Diesel Gala on 18th, 19th and 20th September. The locomotive may make an appearance at the Sulzer Day on 1st August if current repairs are completed in time.
33 021 : remains at Tyseley with its future somewhat uncertain.
33 002 : is confirmed as the Crompton comeback of 2009! The locomotive successfully undertook its first runs in preservation in March/09 when it ran under test in the Buckfastleigh station area. The locomotive then undertook its first full test runs on Saturday 26th April/09 when it worked to Totnes and return with Class 25 7612 for load and insurance. A few minor issues were rectified and more test runs undertaken before the locomotive successfully starred in the South Devon Diesel Gala on 13th/14th June/09 making its preservation passenger debut on 13th June when it operated the 0947 Totnes - Buckfastleigh. Prior to its triumphant operational return, the locomotive proudly represented the Class at the Eastleigh Works Open Day (23rd - 25th May/09) and fittingly was stabled at the front of the Works, in full view from Campbell Road, where in the 80's/90's there was always at least one Class 33 awaiting attention. More running dates are being arranged this summer for the oldest remaining Crompton including 5 round trips on Saturday 1st August. Welcome back!
33 008 : continues to edge nearer to an operational return. The generator set which has been under repair at Bowers for the last couple of months is now finished. Delivery and refitting to the locomotive is scheduled for Monday 13th July/09. Over the last couple of weeks the engine room has been steam cleaned, needle gunned and painted. Major body surgery has restarted on no1 cab with repairs to floor now completed and window surrounds next.
33 012 : continues to undergo overhaul at Eastleigh Works with attention to the traction motors and slack adjusters being the main focus. The power unit was lifted out for attention on 15th May/09. The locomotive was on display at the Eastleigh Works Open Day weekend on 23rd-25th May 2009. For detailed updates on overhaul progress, please see the 71a Group website at www.71a.co.uk
33 035 : has now entered the Roundhouse at Barrow Hill for bodywork restoration during early February 2009 and steady progress is being made - could this be the next Crompton comeback?
33 048 : did not operate at the WSR mixed traction gala from 12-14th June/09 but was the standby locomotive at Williton. The locomotive has two running days this summer - Saturday 15th/29th August where it completes two round trips.
33 052 : has had two rare passenger outings in 2009 operating one service per day over the weekend of 2nd/3rd May and 6th/7th June.
33 053 : operated without fault at the Mid Hants Diesel Gala on 29th/30th/31st May 2009.
33 057 : continues to receive restoration at Williton.
33 103 : was outshopped in BR Blue at Barrow Hill in late March 2009 with Swordfish nameplates and snowploughs retained. The locomotive was moved by road to Norden on the Swanage Railway on 31st March where the locomotive immediately took up operational duties. The locomotive suffered a traction motor problem on 3rd May when working ECS for a mainline tour back into Swanage, but was able to take part in the successful Swanage Diesel Gala on 8th - 10th May/09, before representing the 33/1 at the Eastleigh Works Open Day on 23rd - 25th May, being towed to the site by 55 022 on 19th May returning with 37 706 on 26th May. Locomotive will remain at Swanage until the return of 33 012 from overhaul at Eastleigh Works. There are then plans to return the locomotive to mainline operation.
33 109 : continues to be very well utilised. After successfully completing its Nightrider duties at the East Lancs on 14th/15th March/09 and the diesel diagram on 25th April, the locomotive had a month off before travelling across the Pennines to Keighley with 55 022, to take part in the Keighley & Worth Valley Diesel Gala from 5th - 7th June. After completing its first round trip on the Friday, the locomotive suffered a burnt out resistor which saw it out of traffic for the remainder of the day. The following day, the locomotive was repaired with the help of a quickly dispatched spare courtesy of 33 117 and performed without fault for the rest of the weekend. 33 109 then operated the East Lancs diesel diagram on 20th/27th/28th June/09, and made an appearance at the Diesel Gala from 3rd - 5th July. The locomotive was then transported by road from Bury on 6th July arriving at Toddington on 7th July ahead of a guest appearance at the forthcoming Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Diesel Gala from the 10th - 12th July breaking further new ground for the bagpipe! The locomotive is likely to have an extended stay at the railway until January 2010.
33 110 : continues to receive thorough bodywork attention at Bodmin and could return for the Autumn Diesel Gala on 26th/27th September 2009. It is likely that when bodywork is complete, the locomotive will return to traffic in a new livery - departmental grey!
33 111 : successfully starred at the Swanage Diesel Gala on 8th - 10th May and together with 33 103, will share summer duties with expected use at the Swanage Carnival/Fireworks on 25th July, 30th July and 2nd August.
33 116 : after operating a number of Saturday/Sunday turns and the diesel gala on 25th/26th April/09, the locomotive operated 6 Loughborough - Rothley return shuttles on both 4th and 5th July with the newly restored 4-BIG unit enabling true push-pull operation to be experienced again. The locomotive is scheduled to operate at the forthcoming diesel gala on 11th - 13th September.
33 202 : after arriving at its new home on 13th February/09, was soon operating its first passenger trains on the railway on the 21st February. The locomotive should take part in the annual diesel gala later this year (date to be announced but indicated as 29th/30th August/09).
33 208 : suffered a traction motor fire on 14th March/09 at Ropley, itself enroute to rescue failed steam locomotive, 73 096 and led to the locomotive suffering the indignity of literally being pushed by human hand back into the siding! This has meant that finally the locomotive has been withdrawn from traffic with 37 905 now based at the railway to cover whilst 33 208 travels up to Shackerstone for repair/overhaul. The locomotive plus a replacement set of bogies (ex 051) is scheduled to arrive at Shackerstone in august for overhaul.
Extracts from Newsletter 51 issued
to members in Mar. 2009
Despite a busy summer period for 33 025, activity levels have been somewhat reduced in 2008 as WCRC appears to be concentrating on expanding its Class 37 and Class 47 fleets. What long term future for the Class with West Coast remains to be seen….
33 025 :has had a relatively quiet end to 2008 after a busy summer which took it from Mallaig to Weymouth! On 14th October'08 the locomotive worked light engine from Carnforth to Derby where it collected a coach to take to Tyseley. The next day saw the locomotive shadow a steam tour to Stratford Upon Avon before heading south to Southall on 17th October'08 hauling 2 Mk1 coaches. The locomotive returned to Carnforth for Christmas on 4/12/08 along with 47760/851 towed by 47769. Plans for 2009 detail some engine work and possibly the reinstatement of ETH.
33 029 : frustratingly still remains out of traffic at Carnforth awaiting the last stages of OTMR fitment - a further indication that Class 33's are not high priority with WCRC.
33 207 : has not worked a train since returning the Cambrian Steam ECS to Carnforth at the end of August but remains operational and available for use.
33 019 : worked a number of Santa Specials at the Battlefield line in December'08 and will next be in operation at the Battlefield Line Diesel Galas in 2009 on 25th/26th April and 18th, 19th and 20th September together with potentially two diesel themed running days on 30th May and 1st August 2009.
33 021 : remains at Tyseley with its future somewhat uncertain after Cotswold Rail declined to pursue an interest to purchase the locomotive to join 33 202.
33 103 : remains at Barrow Hill awaiting OTMR fitment and sees regular use as depot pilot. 33 103 will be loaned to the Swanage Railway this year to cover for the unavailable 33 012 and should move to Swanage by road in February'09 following a repaint at Barrow Hill into BR Blue.
33 002 : continues to edge nearer and nearer to fully operational condition with work on the electrical systems and traction motors taking place over the Winter. The locomotive successfully moved under its own power on Sunday 1st February'09, for the first time in 12-13 years! More work is required on the air systems before the locomotive is fully operational but all being well, the locomotive will make a triumphant return to service at the South Devon Diesel Gala on 13th/14th June 2009.
33 008 : continues to undergo restoration at Shackerstone. Repairs have started on the main generator at Bowers of Chesterfield. These will be completed in March and the generator refitted in April'09. 4 overhauled traction motors have been acquired for the loco and these will be fitted later in the year as part of a thorough bogie overhaul. Body repairs have stalled recently due to work switching to 37 905. However, this is now nearly finished so attention can revert to 33 008. All parts are now in stock for the loco, so it is "just" a case of body repairs and putting her back together!
33 012 : has continued to see plenty of use at the Swanage Railway, most recently at the 60's weekend at the end of November'08 where bitterly cold conditions saw its newly restored ETH put to excellent use. Following the inspection by Network Rail and the issue of a fitness to run certificate, the locomotive left the confines of the Swanage Railway for the first time this millennium on Wednesday 14th January'09 when it was towed by 73205 back to its previous home of Eastleigh as the 0Y33 1130 Furzebrook - Eastleigh Works where it is now on site for commencement of its overhaul (is this 1989 or 2009!). The locomotive becomes the first 33 to receive attention at Eastleigh Works since 33 025 in 1993. The locomotive entered the repair shops a few days after arrival and was lifted off its bogies/fuel tank removed on 22nd January in readiness for repairs to commence. An opportunity to see 33 012 under overhaul will be at the Eastleigh Works Open Day weekend on 23rd/24th May 2009. For detailed updates on overhaul progress, see the 71A Group website.
33 048 : has had new batteries fitted during December at Williton. Operating dates for 2009 thus far detail the mixed traction gala on 12-14th June'09.
33 053 : has had an active December'08 working Santa Specials, top and tail with steam throughout the month. Improved reliability has seen the locomotive only fail once in the last 6 months - and that was because nobody had topped up the water levels! A recent exam has unfortunately revealed that a number of tyres have slipped while in use at the MHR. This will be monitored very closely going forward.... In addition to its steam standby duties, the locomotive will operate at the reinstated Diesel Gala on 29th/30th/31st May'09 alongside 33 208.
33 057 : continues to receive attention to bring it back into full operation. Cab 2 has now been fully stripped out and quotes for the internal repairs are being assessed before the work starts. There are tentative hopes that this could be as early as later this year (2009). Not bad for a locomotive bought in late 2005 for spares!
33 102 : continues to receive some external restoration whilst remaining in traffic at the Churnet Valley Railway - last seen shunting around the shed at Cheddleton on 21st December'08.
33 108 : remains under repair at Barrow Hill after metal was found in an oil sample.
33 109 : has had a busy winter where its fully operational ETH has been put to good use. The locomotive successfully completed the diesel diagram on 8th November'08 and then top and tailed Santa Specials between Bury and Ramsbottom from 29th November until 14th December. The locomotive also operated the diesel diagram on Valentines Day and is next booked to operate the diagram on 7th March'09. The locomotive then has a starring role in the Nightrider event on 14th/15th March'09 where it will work 5 round trips overnight between 2320hrs and 0820hrs - offering 120 miles! The locomotive will also operate at future galas on 3rd/4th/5th July and 17th/18th October 2009.
33 110 : continues to receive thorough bodywork attention at Bodmin and had its engine successfully re-started on 22nd December'08 and its hoped the locomotive will be back in traffic during 2009 perhaps for the Spring Gala on 28th/29th March'09 and Autumn Diesel Gala on 26th/27th September 2009. It is likely that when bodywork is complete, the locomotive will return to traffic in a new livery.
33 111 : has now received new batteries which will assist its reliability at Swanage and successfully took part in the 1960's event on 29th/30th November'08 where, like 33 012, 33 111's working ETH was put to good use. The original condition 33/1 also became the first Crompton to work in 2009 when it stood in for a failed steam engine on New Years Day! The locomotive will star at the Swanage Diesel Gala on 8th - 10th May'09 and will be in much demand over the summer whilst 33 012 is away for overhaul.
33 116 : operated at the extremely cold Great Central Railway Winter Diesel Gala on 10th/11th January and will work the diesel turn (1215 Loughborough - Leicester & rtn) on 22nd February 2009. The locomotive will also take part at the main Diesel Galas on 25th/26th April and 12th/13th September 2009.
33 208 : has yet to be taken out of traffic and was used on a number of Santa Specials at the Mid Hants Railway during December and the locomotive is advertised as appearing at the May Diesel Gala. It is likely that when the locomotive is taken out of traffic, it will be moved to the Battlefield Line for overhaul to take place.
Extracts from Newsletter 50 issued
to members in Oct. 2008
33 025 :after a quiet start to the year, 33025 had a busy summer. The locomotive worked the first Class 33 mainline passenger train of the year on 16th May'08 when it worked Scarborough - York portion of a railtour from Peterborough to Fort William. The locomotive then spent late May at the NRM, York being used to shunt exhibits at the '1968 and all that' exhibition before a trip to the East Lancashire Railway on 27th May to collect 5690 Leander. 33 025 was then dispatched to Scotland in mid June to take up position as the Royal Scotsman Western tour assist engine, its first working being on 21st June when it worked 1H86 0823 Spean Bridge - Fort William (via Mallaig) from Fort William to Mallaig before working 1H88 0638 Wemyss Bay - Edinburgh on 23rd June. 33025 remained in Scotland, completing a further 3 Royal Scotsman outings before returning south to Carnforth with Scottish cousin, 26010 in tow on 2x July for display at the WCRC open day at Carnforth on 26th/27th July where 33025 was also on display.
On 3rd August'08, the locomotive was dispatched with ECS for Fort William (via Settle/Carlisle) only to suffer a minor bogie fire near Law Junction. After being left at Mossend yard, the locomotive was towed back to Carnforth by 37248 on 7th August. West Coast Railways are concerned with excessive tyre wear on the 33's and this could be due to the specific challenges of the West Highland line. They are monitoring the situation.
The locomotive along with 33207 worked Pathfinder Tours 'The Great Wey Round' from Crewe to Weymouth and return on 23rd August - the first mainline pairing on a passenger train for nearly two years! The following weekend 33025 had another trip to the south coast, this time to Paignton and Kingswear from Tyseley, although the locomotive was merely on the train for shunting and insurance with 47773 providing the power.
A week later, on Saturday 6th September, the locomotive returned to Weymouth working solo on Spitfire Railtours 'The Dorset Dumpling' from Waterloo to Weymouth via Laverstock and Eastleigh. This was the first Crompton passenger working from Waterloo in over ten years! 73136 hauled the return train back via Southampton and Winchester. The locomotive hauled both tours in fine form although reports suggest it requires some top end engine work back at Carnforth in the near future.
The locomotive worked OZ33 from Southall to March on 17th September with 47245, to collect stranded 47760 (seized wheelset). The convoy returned to Ely Potter Group Sidings on the 18th September where 33 025/47760 were left awaiting return to Carnforth while 47760 undertook a bogie swap. This completed, 33025 towed the 47 back to Carnforth on 24th September. 33025 was out again on 14th October'08 running light as OZ33 1130 Carnforth - Derby RTC.
33 029 : remains out of traffic at Camforth whilst OTMR fitting is completed and was on display at the recent open day. Priority work on Class 37/47 locomotives has resulted in the delay in finishing the work.
33 030 : had a rare public outing at the Camforth Open Day weekend on 26th/27th July'08 when it was towed out of the old steam shed into the adjacent sidings for display.
33 207 : having been fitted with OTMR, was released to traffic in early June'08 with its first train being none other than the Kingfisher Tours 'Settle & Carlisle Experience' from Skipton to Carlisle and return on 18th June. 33207 put in a superb solo performance which has transpired to be the only one of these tours to run from an original programme that spanned the entire summer. The locomotive has since gone on its annual summer holiday to the Cambrian coast, working the ECS for the Cambrian Coast steam service from Carnforth to Mach on 25th July where it remains on standby for the duration of the service until the end of August (the locomotive performed the same duty in both 2006 and 2007). However, unlike previous years, 33207 was called to assist steam locomotive 76079 on both 7th and 8th August after the steam loco was filled with sea water at Pwllheli. 33207 has thus once again broken new ground for the Class in working the first passenger trains west of Barmouth! The locomotive pushed from the rear on the outward trips (10.05 Machynlleth -Pwllheli) and worked in tandem on the return. Due to 33 029 not being ready, 33207 returned to Crewe on 22nd August to meet up with 33025 in readiness to work 'The Great Wey Round' tour from Crewe - Weymouth and return the following day. The locomotive returned to Mach on 25th August'08 to resume steam standby duties before bringing the ECS back to Carnforth on 30th August following the end of the steam season.
33 019 : returned to action on the Battlefield line at the diesel gala on 12th, 13th and 14th September'08.
33 021 : remains at Tyseley with rumours of an imminent purchase by Cotswold Rail.
33 103 : remains at Barrow Hill awaiting OTMR fitment and a possible link with either Cotswold Rail or West Coast Railways. In the meantime, it sees frequent use as depot shunter.
33 002 : had its engines successfully started for the first time in over 8 years on 27th July'08 after 2 and a half years of restoration. Work on traction motors, air systems and electrical systems are still required before the locomotive can be considered operational which will now see a return to use in early 2009.
33 012 : has continued to see plenty of use at the Swanage Railway most recently sharing the evening fireworks specials with 33111. In an exciting development, the 71 A Locomotive Group have announced that the locomotive would be taken out of service at the start of 2009 for a general overhaul. This would take between nine and twelve months with the work being undertaken at Eastleigh Works. Bruce Knights, current owner of the lease, have offered the erection shop, with full works cranes and facilities to 71 A group members for this overhaul. This is felt to be most appropriate as Eastleigh Works was the home of the class 33 overhauls and repairs for the whole of their working life with BR. This project will commence in January 2009, which in it's self is significant being the centenary year, since the original LSWR works move from Nine Elms in 1909.
The group have been concerned for some time about the state of the underfloor trunking over the bogies and when the chance to do this work at Eastleigh Works came about, it was felt that was too good an opportunity to miss. The use of the overhead cranes and other lifting gear will enable the power unit and generator to be removed allowing work to be done on the bedplate. The brake rigging and the traction motors will be removed from the bogies as well.
The opportunity will also be taken to send the generator and traction motors away to be overhauled. The brake rigging will be fitted with new bushes fitted to compensate for any wear and to ensure that it is fit for further use. The brake valves will be stripped, cleaned and put back together with new diaphragms and seals. TPWS and OTMR will possibly be fitted during this overhaul as well so that in the future if we decide to operate 33012 on the mainline the equipment will already be fitted. In fact we intend to do as much work as is necessary so that 33012 will last for another 50 years and returns back to the Swanage Railway as one of the best locomotives in diesel preservation.
The labour for this project will depend entirely on volunteers; however, experienced railway engineers will be leading the work. We have also had offers of other local expertise from within the railway industry. The budget is tight and 71 A would like to appeal for additional funds to group members and, indeed the wider 'crompton loving' public. In the meantime, 33012 will make its next scheduled passenger appearance at the Swanage Railway 60's event on 29th/30th November'08 where it will hopefully get to use its restored ETH capability!
33 048 : has had a very busy period since being released to traffic in late 1960's BR Green livery for the West Somerset Mixed Traction weekend in mid June'08. Availability problems with the West Somerset Railways steam fleet saw up to two diesels required on a daily basis in late June and July with 33048 and 25173 being utilized. In addition the locomotive has operated on a number of summer Saturdays as per previous years and will next operate at the mixed traction event on 25th/26th October'08.
33 052 : has had full green cab ends applied at the Kent and East Sussex Railway during 2008.
33 053 : has moved to the Mid Hants Railway, arriving by road on the 28th June to act as cover whilst resident Crompton 33208 is taken out of service for overhaul. Not passing an opportunity to make the use of 2 Cromptons on the line, the usual non-diesel line ran two return trips on 2nd August between Alresford and Medstead operated by the pair, followed by 3 return trips with 33208 along the full length of the line on 20th September, before 33208 is taken out of service.
33 057 : has had its engine successfully started on a number of occasions this summer as restoration at Williton continues.
33 102 : continues to receive some external restoration whilst remaining in traffic and displayed evidence of partial repainting on Cab No. 2 end at the Churnet Valley Railway Diesel Gala on 30th May - 1st June'08.
33 108 : has now had its collision damage repairs completed at Barrow Hill and has moved into the spot vacated by 33111 within the roundhouse. The locomotive will remain on site, receiving additional internal attention. It is then planned that the locomotive will be made available for short term visits to other railways.
33 109 : became the first Class 33 to visit the Bolton and Embassy Diesel Gala on 18th, 19th and 20th July'08 arriving at the railway on 15th July and departing back to Bury on 25th July. The locomotive operated the Saturday diesel diagram at the East Lancashire Railway on 20th September'08 and has a further outing on Saturday 8th November.
33 110 : to receive thorough bodywork attention at Bodmin with recent progress being evident on cab no. and the bodysides. Could this locomotive return to traffic next year?
33 111 : arrived at its new home at the Swanage Railway on 8th June'08 having left Barrow Hill on 5th June. The locomotive then hauled its first full length passenger trains in preservation on 12th June although issues with its batteries required being replaced by 33012 during the day. The locomotive suffered a burnt out traction motor blower on 29th July whilst en-route from Swanage to Norden to work the 1310 departure to Swanage. 33012 came to the rescue and 33111 was repaired within the same week. The locomotive is now available alongside 33012 and will feature at the 1960's event on 29th/30th November'08.
33 116 : has spent the summer out of service in the shed at Loughborough finally undergoing bodywork restoration and repainting. The locomotive is being repainted into BR Blue and emerged into traffic, semi complete on 12th September to successfully take part in the 3 day diesel gala. The impressive transformation from 'banger blue' is clearly evident. Following the gala, the locomotive has once again been taken out of traffic to enable the remainder of the work to be completed which details, full bodywork attention to cab no. 1, repairing the buffer collision damage on cab no.2 suffered at Purley in August 1998 and then final painting and application of the numbers and BR symbols.
33 208 : as reported above, will be taken out of service later this year for overhaul, now that 33053 has arrived at the Mid Hants Railway as cover. 33053 and 33208 operated two return trips on 2nd August between Alresford and Medstead operated by the pair, followed by 3 return trips along the full length of the line on 20th September/08, before 33208 is taken out of service.
Extracts from Newsletter 49 issued
to members in Apr. 2008
33 025 :after travelling back to Carnforth from the former Southern Region, on ?th December, '25 had seen no action until 21st April'08 when it worked a 0900 Carnforth - Shildon test run (with 47 826), the first Crompton mainline action of the year! The test run detected some cylinder attention required which is now in hand. After a distinctly barren railtour 2007, the good news is there are already two trips in the pipeline for 2008 - 2 x WCRC Class 33 are the booked motive power for Pathfinder Tours The Great Wey Round' which visits the popular former Crompton haunt of Weymouth from Crewe on 17th May 2008. In addition Spitfire Railtours have also announced a trip to Weymouth on 6th September 2008 from Waterloo which will utilise a WCRC Class 33 and a Class 73 top and tail. Operating plans for the Royal Scotsman 2008 have not as yet been confirmed, but could see another year of Class 33 action in the West Highlands!
33 029 : remains out of traffic at Camforth whilst OTMR fitting is completed. This was approximately 80% complete by the beginning of the year (2008), but priorities at WCRC with Class 47's has seen the work put back in the queue.
33 207 : remains out of traffic at Camforth until OTMR is fitted. This was started in April'08 and was almost complete as we went to press.
Mainline Rail was placed into administration during March 2008. What this means for the locomotives listed below which are privately owned but operate under the Mainline Rail banner remains to be seen.
33 019 : has had electrical faults attended to during the winter break and should have successfully performed at the recent Battlefield line galas on 19th/20thApril/'08 and has a further operating days on 7th June and 2nd/3rd August'08.
33 021 : 021 was moved from Barrow Hill to Tyseley by 31 454 on 28th January'08 for tyre turning at Maintrain prior to returning to full operation. The locomotive is still potentially earmarked to move to the Dartmoor Railway but with the demise of Mainline Rail, this may now be in doubt.
33 103 : is now at Barrow Hill awaiting OTMR fitment and a return to mainline duties.
33 002 : has now been fitted with an overhauled turbocharger during February 2008 and if all goes well, the locomotive should make a long awaited return to traffic this year. Indeed, it is tentatively allocated its first duties on the South Devon Diesel Roster on the 17th August.
33 008 : continues to undergo restoration at Shackerstone. Focus is currently on bodywork repairs on nol cab - floor and cab sides have been completed thus far. The repaired main generator is also expected back during April.
33 012 : is set to once again be one of the hardest working preserved Class 33's in 2008 and has already been utilised in passenger action on Sunday 23rd March and 12th/13th April'08. Its next appearances should be at the Swanage Beer Gala on 11th - 13th May 2008 and the locomotive should feature on the Summer Friday evening/Sunday dining trains again this year. The 71 A Group are considering the possibility of mainline certifying the locomotive to take advantage of the connection at Furzebrook onto the mainline being made operational with potential future through workings from Wareham.
33 034 : whilst stored in a siding at Norden on the Swanage Railway, '34 has been the victim of copper theft during February'08 which has left its uncertain future even more uncertain.
33 048 : will be in operation at the West Somerset Mixed Traction weekend from 13th-15th June'08.
33 053 : completed all Santa Specials duties at the Northampton and Lamport Railway. While hauling these trains a leak developed between the bottom of one of the radiators and a settling tank. During January and February'08 one radiator was completely stripped down and overhauled. The settling tank was also overhauled with new gaskets fitted. The bodywork surrounding the radiator was repaired and repainted ahead of its visit to the Nene Valley Railway Diesel Gala on 1st/2nd March '08. The locomotive was moved by road from Pitsford to Wansford on 21st February 2008 and on arrival at the Nene Valley Railway, was utilised on a photographic charter on 23rd February ahead of the gala. After completing its first days gala duties, the locomotive unfortunately suffered a main generator flashover on Sunday 2nd March whilst working the first train of the day from Wansford to Peterborough. The flashover was potentially due to a defect on a traction motor. The locomotive was moved by road on 3rd March, back to Shackerstone on the Battlefield Line for assessment and repairs. The positive news is that damage is only of a minor nature and repairs will hopefully be completed before the Battlefield Line Diesel Gala on 19th/20th April'08. Next jobs on the list include refurbishing nol cab interior, tackling the other radiator and completing an oil change.
33 057 : had a successful engine start on 16th February 2008 - amazing for a locomotive in open store for over 10 years and initially earmarked for spares donor for 33 048. The locomotive even moved a small distance under its own power on its two operational traction motors. An initial concern that the overhauled turbocharger wasn't turning was traced to a dead bird in the exhaust system! Considerable further work on the traction motors and bodywork attention are required before the locomotive makes a full operational return to service.
33 102 : is receiving some external restoration and is next booked to operate at the Churnet Valley Railway Diesel Gala on 30th May - 1st June'08.
33 108 : continues to receive collision damage repairs at Barrow Hill and will hopefully be completed in the next couple of months.
33 109 : 33109 has made a very welcome return to operational use since newsletter 48. Following restoration at Bury, the locomotive was successfully started on....and successfully completed its first passenger duties for over 7 years on 2nd February 2008 when it worked the second half of the diesel diagram with 24054. The locomotive had further successful passenger outings on 15th/16th March'08 when its external appearance had been significantly improved and Captain Bill Smith RNR nameplates reapplied and a full running day on Saturday 12th April. Further booked passenger turns are the diesel diagram on Saturday/Sunday 12th/13th July in addition to the annual 7 day diesel gala from 30th June'08.
33 111 : continues to receive the finishing touches to its internal and external restoration at Barrow Hill, and once completed will be moving to the Swanage Railway to operate alongside 33 012 from early June.
33 116 : is amazingly still in 'banger blue' condition at the Great Central Railway and worked at the diesel gala on the 14th-16th March'08 whilst also completing the Saturday diesel diagram on 5th April and operating at the diesel gala on 11th -13th April'08. The locomotive should see considerable use over the summer.
33 117 : remains in the middle of a long overhaul and has recently donated parts to 33109 to enable Captain Bill to return to traffic.
33 208 : continues to see limited use at the Mid Hants Railway for their 2008 season usually rescuing booked steam or DMMU traction and had an outing on UK Tours Oozlum Bird 2 tour on 9th February'08 assisting 73 206/209 over the Mid-Hants section of the tour.
Extracts from Newsletter 48 issued
to members in Jan. 2008
33 025 : which was stopped at Carnforth for OTMR fitment was released to traffic on 2nd October'07 with its first duty to pilot 5972 'Hogwarts Castle' on the 5Z33 Carnforth - Fort William empty stock working in readiness for another stint of Warner Brothers filming on the West Highland line. Whilst up at Fort William, the locomotive was used to move a snowplough down to Glenfinnan sidings on 8th October, before returning south to Carnforth on the rear of the 5Z92 0810 Fort William - Carnforth on the 9th October'07. 33 025 has also undergone wheelset attention whilst out of traffic and now sports a painted black oval 10a shed plate on the bottom of each cab end. 33 025 is the first Crompton fitted with OTMR and that means that we should have at least one on the main line in 2008! Reports indicate that WCRC have been awarded a further 3 year contract for operating The Royal Scotsman so will hopefully see 33's in the splendour of the Scottish Highlands for years to come! Fresh from its return to Carnforth from Fort William, the locomotive was dispatched south to London (Southall) on 17th October (towed by 47 245 via Barrow Hill) to take up duties with the Steam Dreams Green train, its first duties to run light from Stewarts Lane to Exeter on 27th October prior to working 1740 Exeter St Davids - Clapham Junction (pushing from Exeter - Westbury, leading to Latchmere South Junction) with 30777 on 28th October'07. The first Class 33 passenger action apart from the Royal Scotsman since 20th January 2007!
33 029 : has continued to put in a superb performance operating the 1H86 Fort William - Mallaig/5Z86 Fort William - Bridge of Orchy, 1H96 Bridge of Orchy - Eastfield (Glasgow) and 1H88 Wemyss Bay - Dalmeny Junction legs of the Western Royal Scotsman three weekends per month. In mid September, WCRC swapped locomotives and 33 207 was sent north to finish the 2007 season. 33 029 remained available at Edinburgh Craigentinny until 10th October'07 when it worked light with 33 207 and 47 826 from Edinburgh back to Carnforth at 0Z33. The locomotive had a day out to Minehead on 8th December'07 when it ventured from Tyseley to Minehead on the rear of a charter train headed by 47 773 (the Crompton was for insurance purposes only). OTMR fitment is now planned before the end of 2007 and as we went to press this was well on the way to completion.
33 030 : got a rare but brief glimpse of daylight on 21st November'07 when it was shunted from the diesel shed where it has resided for over two years, into the steam shed for long term storage whilst still being utilised as parts donor for the three operational locomotives.
33 207 : worked from Mach back to Carnforth with the ECS from the Cambrian Steam Specials on 3rd September. In mid September the locomotive travelled north to Scotland to perform Royal Scotsman 'Western' tour duties as per 33 029, commencing on Saturday 15th September with the final two weekends on 30th September/7th October'07 visiting Stirling rather than Wemyss Bay due to engineering works. With the Royal Scotsman 'Western' season now over, the locomotive returned to Carnforth with 33 029 and 47 826 on 10th October'07. The locomotive worked ECS from Doncaster to Stevenage early on 8th December for a charter to Chester operated by 57 601. 33 207 remained on the rear throughout and was later used to operate the ECS back from Stevenage to York. OTMR fitment is now planned before the end of the year.
33 019 : successfully performed at the recent Battlefield line galas on 14th, 15th and 16th September'07 and operated the daily diagram on 30th September.
33 021 : is earmarked for a return to operational use (with the overhauled engine and generator from 33 046) for the first time since its failure at the Mid Hants Gala in May 2004. The locomotive has recently received new batteries and has had its engines started before making its first operational appearance for over 3 years on 15th December 2007 when it worked passenger shuttles over the short demonstration line at Barrow Hill, top and tailed with 33 111. A full operational return beckons in 2008.
33 103 : continues to operate from Derby and has had recent outings on the saloon to Humberside and East Anglia. On hire to Cotswold, the locomotive travelled light engine to Carlisle on 3rd October (stopping at WCRC Carnforth for a top up of water!!) to work the 6Z 1600 Carlisle - Gloucester empty flat wagons. Still in the west, the locomotive was noted passing Bath light engine towards Bristol on the evening of 4th October before spending the weekend stabled at Bristol. Monday 8th October saw the locomotive haul HST power car, 43 145 to Loughborough whilst the following day the locomotive was back on saloon duty working from Derby to Hornsey and on the 10th worked back to Derby via Peterborough, Melton Mowbray and Leicester. The locomotive had a further outing on 19th November, hauling 56 011/021 from Coalville to Long Marston. A further stock move occupied the locomotive on 26th November when it took 86 223 and some stock from Oxley to Long Marston. The locomotive will require OTMR fitment in the coming weeks if it is to continue to operate on the mainline from 1st January.
33 002 : is now receiving internal attention following the completion of the excellent external restoration this summer. The turbocharger is currently away being overhauled whilst the cab interiors receive attention. The locomotive will hopefully return to traffic during 2008.
33 008 : continues to undergo restoration at Shackerstone with further external and internal bodywork repairs being completed in the last two months.
33 012 : has continued to be one of the hardest working preserved Class 33's and had its final planned turns of 2007 at the 60's weekend on Saturday 24th November.
33 046 : currently remains at Swanick Junction at the Midland Railway Centre where it awaits a decision on its future - spares donor or restoration project.
33 048 : continues in service supporting WSR infrastructure and revenue earning services. Is was designated standby at Williton for the Autumn Steam Gala from 4th to 7th October, and saw use at the smaller "Autumn in Somerset" mixed traffic gala on 28th October.
33 053 : has received 2 piece snowploughs in early September following completion of its replacement generator and operated at the Battlefield Gala on 14th 15th and 16th September 2007. The locomotive suffered with loss of power on the 15th and missed its initial afternoon diagram. However, this was rectified in time for the locomotive to take up the final two trips of the day, one solo and one paired with 33 019. The locomotive has had its electric train heating reinstated during October and was moved by road on to the Northampton and Lamport Railway on the 26th of November for a short stay until Christmas to work the Santa Specials top and tail with steam to provide the heat! The locomotive is then planned to guest at the Nene Valley Railway Diesel Gala on 1st/2nd March 2007 (it has a hard Crompton act to follow!) before moving back to the Chinnor and Risborough Railway where it will stay for the foreseeable future.
33 057 : Work continues on acquiring missing components and then fitting them. Air has been put through the loco with only one leak found. Work has continued on the electrical cubicle testing various items. The loco would be in a position to be started and take power, if only they had some batteries!!! The fibreglass cab window surrounds have been removed revealing the usual poor condition metalwork. Substantial bodywork repairs will be carried out under contract over the winter period. Engine wise, the locomotive is now complete and an engine start up could be on the cards as early as Spring 2008!
33 102 : was due to operate at the Diesel Railcar Gala on 30th September but unfortunately was failed with an earthing fault which resulted in a loss of power. The locomotive has received some external attention since the summer with a partial bogie/underframe repaint and t-cut to the cabs and bodysides. Full external restoration now awaits.
33 108 : has now started to receive collision damage repairs (at last) at Barrow Hill, with a timescale of about 8-10 weeks being anticipated for completion. Major parts of the front cab panel have been cut away ready for replacement with new metal.
33 109 : was finally moved from the LNWR complex at Crewe to the nearby Heritage Centre on 3rd October in readiness for a move by road to the East Lancashire Railway which was undertaken on Wednesday 10th October. The locomotive will now undergo restoration at Bury and is now inside the shed at Buckley Wells receiving attention. A planned running date on Saturday 2nd February 2008 is the target return date for the 'Captain'.
33 111 : is receiving the finishing touches to an excellent repaint at Barrow Hill thanks to the efforts of Richard Pinker. The cab interiors are the next major job to be handled but the end is nearly in sight. Other recent work includes repairing the governor and reinstatement of the vacuum brakes. The locomotive worked passenger shuttles along the short demonstration line alongside 33 021 on 15th December 2007 during a Christmas diesel running event. A welcome return to full operational service in 2008 is anticipated.
33 116 : continues to see operation in its 'banger blue' condition at the Great Central Railway and worked the 1215/1415 departures from Loughborough on Sunday 30th September and performed well at the diesel gala on 14th-16th September 2007. Rumours abound that the locomotive will finally lose its banger blue livery over the winter months and be painted into a non-authentic green livery to match the CIG at the railway which is also due to receive the green paintbrush treatment.
33 117 : has received continuing restoration at Bury since being taken out of traffic in November 2005. The locomotive has received one newly fabricated cab as part of the overhaul.
33 201 : has made a very welcome return to traffic at the Midland Railway Centre working its first trains since 2003 on 26th August followed by a full running day on 30th September.
33 208 : continues to see limited use at the Mid Hants Railway for their 2007 season usually rescuing booked steam or DMMU traction.
Extracts from Newsletter 47 issued
to members in July 2007
The 3 operational Class 33's were taken out of traffic on 31st March/07 for expensive OTMR fitment in line with legislation which requires all mainline locomotives with an expected use beyond 31st December 2007 to be fitted with what is essentially a black box recording devise. This development can only be seen as positive news with regard to future WCRC plans! Following fitment, 33 029 and 33 207 have returned to traffic in late May and yes, once again…The Royal Scotsman is enjoying Crompton haulage…now where is that spare £3000!
33 025 : is currently stopped at Carnforth for OTMR fitment and possibly attention to its engine as it has been operating as 7LDA for the past couple of years with one cylinder missing! Those who have witnessed it will not forget the distinctive sound that resulted.
33 029 : was released to traffic following OTMR fitment on 24th May and promptly ran light engine to Fort William to take up its position as Royal Scotsman assisting locomotive for the Western leg of the luxury train. Making its debut in the West Highlands, The 'Glen' in the glen worked Fort William - Mallaig/Fort William - Bridge of Orchy on 26th May, Bridge of Orchy - Glasgow (27th May) and Wemyss Bay - Edinburgh (28th May). The following weekend it worked Fort William - Mallaig/Fort William - Bridge of Orchy on 2nd June and then Bridge of Orchy - Wemyss Bay on 3rd June which it also worked 16th/17th and 23rd/24th June. The removal of the Oban line section to Taynuilt and the 20mph speed restriction imposed by Network Rail for Class 33's, should hopefully mean Cromptons are a regular fixture on this train for the 2007 season.
33 207 : 207 also had OTMR fitted at Carnforth and was completed by the end of May. It had a brief outing on 9th June when it conveyed 71000 and its support coach as 5Z71 from Penrith to Bury after the steam locomotive failed whilst working the return leg of the Cumbrian Mountain Express to Bedford. The locomotive had a greater adventure w/c 2nd July when it worked the Network Rail inspection saloon 'Amanda' on a tour of the Central Wales line, Aberystwyth, and Pwllheli, departing Derby on Monday 2nd July, returning to Carnforth on Thursday 5th July. The locomotive has recently had black oval 10A shed plates (former identity of Carnforth depot) painted on both of its lower cab fronts.
33 019 : 019 successfully performed at the recent Battlefield line gala which included the excellent pairing
with newly restored short term resident, 33 053. The locomotive will feature at the next diesel gala on 15th/16th
September and may have additional running days on Saturdays throughout the summer.
Check http://www.shackerstone-diesels.co.uk
33 021 : was moved from Derby to Barrow Hill on 27th April by 31 128 where future restoration will take place.
33 103 : having been resident at Derby station 'slum' sidings since working the final leg of 'The Lancashire Witch' tour on 20th January, finally ventured onto the mainline again on 6th June, working the saloon from Derby to Derby via Wellingborough. The locomotive worked light engine from Derby to Bescot on 5th July to return with the 4Z33 13.37 Bescot - Chaddesden. The locomotive has not surprisingly had its cabside FM Rail branding painted over in the early months of the year.
33 002 : continues to receive external restoration with all welding and metalwork completed on the second and final cab. The locomotive now has snowploughs fitted to Cab No. 1 end and was displayed at Buckfastleigh during the South Devon Railway Diesel Gala in June. The South Devon Diesel Group are hopefull it will make a full return to traffic at their Autumn diesel gala on 3rd/4th November 2007.
33 008 : continues to undergo restoration at Shackerstone with further external and internal bodywork repairs being completed in the last two months.
33 012 : continues to be one of the hardest working preserved Class 33's and has further operating days as follows;
Firework Specials
28th July, 1st Augsut, 4th August
Friday Night Fish & Chip Specials 5 round trips
13th July, 20th July, 10th August, 17th August, 24th August, 31st August, 21st September
Travelling Tavern Tuesdays/ Thursdays
5th July, 19th July, 31st July, 7th August, 9th August, 21st August, 23rd August, 6th September
60's Weekend
Saturday 24th November/Sunday 25th November
33 046 : has been resold to the BRCWorkgroup and was moved by road from Derby to their base Swanick Junction at the Midland Railway Centre on 5th April for ongoing restoration assessment.
33 048 : has returned to traffic at the end of April at the West Somerset Railway following the fitting of a new heat exchanger and various other repairs.
33 053 : operated its first trains since 1995 when it made a triumphant return to operational use at the Battlefield line diesel gala on 22nd/23rd April. The speed of the restoration is a credit to all involved following such a long period of time out of use as it certainly put on a fantastic performance throughout the weekend. The locomotive was due to have its main generator disconnected w/c 25th June in readiness for a swap with either 33 021/046 due to faulty bearings. Once full restoration has been completed, it is intended to move the locomotive to the Northampton and Lamport Railway.
33 057 : will shortly move to the south yard at Williton for a repaint into Green livery.
33 102 : returned to traffic following engine repairs in time to perform at the Churnet Valley Railways diesel gala on 1st-3rd June and the 'Anything Goes' gala on 23rd/24th June. Plans are now to take the locomotive out of traffic for much needed bodywork repairs.
33 108 : was moved by road to Barrow Hill, departing Swanage on 21st June and finally arriving at Barrow Hill on 25th June for collision damage repairs to be undertaken by Mainline Rail. The locomotive is started up regularly at Swanage to ensure that the batteries remain charged and to keep the locomotive in an operational condition. Further repairs will be undertaken by the Class 33/1 Preservation Group whilst the locomotive is at Barrow Hill. The locomotive is not expected to be in use in 2007 until the Swanage 60's weekend at the end of November.
33 109 : has recently been moved within the LNWR complex at Crewe to a siding adjacent to the Stoke line, indicating a move by road to the East Lancashire Railway is imminent.
33 110 : continues to receive full bodywork attention at the Bodmin and Wenford Railway and as with the majority of Crompton owners, closer inspection has revealed significant cab corrosion and extensive repairs required. Work is currently concentrating on Cab No.2 end and the opportunity has been taken to repair corrosion around the roof guttering and engine room door.
33 111 : is now in the advance process of bodywork repairs and a full repaint before entering traffic with the locomotive in green primer during June.
33 116 : continues to see operation in its 'banger blue' condition at the Great Central Railway and is booked to work 1215/1415 departures from Loughborough on Saturday 15th July and will operate at the diesel gala on 14th-16th September 2007.
33 117 : continues to undergo its 3 year body and engine overhaul. The turbocharger was removed during February for repair by an outside specialist.
33 208 : continues to see limited use at the Mid Hants Railway for their 2007 season usually rescuing booked steam or DMMU traction.
Extracts from Newsletter 46 issued
to members in April 2007
As ever, the West Coast Cromptons go from strength to strength and are flying the mainline Crompton flag to all corners of the rail network.
33 025 : together with 33 207 and 37 248, worked off Carnforth on 7th February as 0Z37 Carnforth - Cardiff in readiness for snowplough standby duties. 33 025 then worked across to Bristol Temple Meads to take up its duties and spent the 8th February stabled in the locomotive spur at the north end of the station. The first Crompton stabled there since May 1988 and the end of the Cardiff - Portsmouth workings! With the end of the snow, the locomotive worked back to Carnforth on 9th February.
33 029 : was also on snowplough standby duty having been fitted with mini snowploughs at Carnforth in January/February. The locomotive worked south from Carnforth with 47854 on 7th February and was stationed initially at Birmingham New Street before making its way to Stockport via Stafford by the night of the 9th February and arriving back at Carnforth on 10th February. The locomotive paired with 33 207, worked north on the morning of 15th March with the Royal Scotsman ECS from Carnforth to Bo'ness in readiness for the 2007 operating season . . . will this see more Crompton action in the Scottish Highlands?
33 207 : left Carnforth with 33 025 and 37 248 on 7th February and found itself stationed at Ferme Park at the bottom of the East Coast Mainline on snowplough standby duties. The locomotive returned back to Carnforth on 9th February. As detailed above, the locomotive worked the Royal Scotsman ECS from Carnforth to Bo'ness with 33 029 on 15th March.
Possibly the final newsletter to feature this section as we detail the subsequent effects of the demise of the Company on the Class 33's operated under the FM Rail banner.
33 019 : has always been classified as privately owned, albeit by M.Sargent, a former director of FM Rail and this locomotive is now part of his RAM Rail fleet. TOPS however shows it currently in the NRLS Nemesis Rail stored locomotive pool! Either way, despite recent developments, there are no plans to move the locomotive from its current home at the Battlefield line and the locomotive should feature at the diesel galas this year which are scheduled to take place on 21st/22nd April and 15th/16th September.
33 021 : has been transferred to the Nemesis Rail stored locomotives pool - NRLS in late February 2007.
33 046 : further to reports in the previous newsletter, has now been sold to Edward Stevenson in February 2007, who also owns 33 008 and 33 053 (see news below).
33 103 : has continued to see limited use on the mainline in 2007, most notably on 20th January 2007 when it became the first Crompton of 2007 to work a mainline passenger train when it rescued Hertfordshire Railtours Merrymaker 'The Lancashire Witch' Birmingham - Preston tour on the return leg from Derby to Birmingham New Street after 31 128 ran low on fuel. 33 103 took over and partnered 31 454 for the final leg to Birmingham. The locomotive was reallocated to Nemesis Rail operational pool - NRLO in late February 2007.
33 202 : was put on a tender list for sale in early January and was immediately purchased by Cotswold Rail for further use on 18th Janaury. 33 202 was reallocated to the CRRH pool and to GL (Gloucester) depot on 19th January 2007. The locomotive together with fellow purchased 31, 31 452 worked light engines from Derby to Gloucester on 22nd January 2007 as 0Z68 1021 Derby - Gloucester. 33 202 then worked from Gloucester to the West Somerset Railway on 2nd March as 0Z33 1240 Gloucester - Bishops Lydeard where it has been agreed the locomotive will spend a period of time on loan. Engineers at the West Somerset Railway have already fixed an electrical fault. During its stay, the locomotive is likely to be given a repaint in BR Blue livery.
33 002 : continues to receive external restoration with all welding and metalwork completed on the second and final cab. The results are superb and the locomotive will clearly be a credit to the South Devon Diesel Group when it hopefully returns to traffic later this year.
33 048 : suffered a heat exchanger failure between Christmas and New Year and is now out of traffic at the West Somerset Railway whilst repairs are effected. A new heat exchanger was fitted over the weekend of 10th/11th March.
33 053 : at the Chinnor and Risborough Railway, has been sold to Edward Stevenson in January 2007. The locomotive departed Chinnor by road on 14th March and was moved to its new home at Shackerstone on the Battlefield line arriving the same afternoon. The spare parts required to return the locomotive to operational condition have been acquired and an active appearance at the railways diesel gala on 21st/22nd April has not been ruled out.
33 108 : is currently awaiting collision damage repairs at Swanage. Tenders have been issued for the repairs and work will hopefully start in the very near future. Once repaired, the locomotive will be used in conjunction with 33 012 on the workings detailed in the 33 012 section during 2007.
33 109 : further to reports in the previous newsletter, 109 has actually been sold to the group at the East Lancashire Railway who own 33 117. The locomotive will be reunited with the various parts that were stripped during the bogie overhaul that was never completed, and will then be moved from Crewe to Bury for restoration.
33 110 : continues to receive full bodywork attention at the Bodmin and Wenford Railway and as with the majority of Crompton owners, closer inspection has revealed significant cab corrosion and extensive repairs required. It is hoped the locomotive will return to traffic for the September 2007 diesel gala on 22nd/23rd September 2007.
33 111 : having had internal repairs completed, is now in the process of receiving bodywork repairs and a full repaint before entering traffic. The locomotive is earmarked to operate on the demonstration line shuttles at the July gala at Barrow Hill on 14th/15th July 2007.
33 116 : should operate at the Great Central Railway on 28th/29th April and 14th-16th September 2007.
33 117 : continues to undergo its 3 year body and engine overhaul. As with 33 110, stripping of the bodywork has revealed significant corrosion especially around the cab windows. No. 1 cab has been heavily stripped to remove all the corroded steelwork and has revealed patched up collision damage on the second mans side. A more thorough repair will be done this time!
33 201 : is hoped to make a return to traffic during 2007.
33 208 : continues to see use at the Mid Hants Railway for their 2007 season and became probably the first Crompton to work a passenger train in 2007 when it operated 3 return trips on the Mid Hants on 14th January 2007 following the failure of the resident DMMU.