May 2026

On 30076, work in the shelter has focused on the side tanks — channels have been welded into place, tack welding has progressed, and primer paint has been applied. Derusting has been ongoing throughout. Both side tanks have now been temporarily refitted to the loco using the Railway’s excavator, driven by John Drew, to check clearances. A pair of surplus information plates were unbolted from the tank side at the same time.

In the smokebox, removal of the rusted-in bolts from the two steam pipe joint flanges has continued, with further studs freed up over the course of the month. Underneath the boiler, work to release the blowdown valve has also been ongoing.

Both steam pipes have now been painted. The left-hand pipe was derusted, treated with rust inhibitor, and finished in heat-resistant black paint. The right-hand pipe was burnished and painted to match. The two cab doors have been thoroughly derusted and fitted with new wooden tops. The cab and bunker floor have been cleaned up, and various backhead fittings have been removed.

New buffer steps have been fabricated and welded to the two front buffers, with work commencing on additional steps for under the front buffer beam. The front buffers have been painted in undercoat.

A snifting valve for 30075 was also located, meaning snifting valves are now accounted for on both locomotives.

On 30075, the paintwork has been rubbed down and the side tanks and cab repainted. The loco has been given an oil round. Work on the required “Fitness to Run” paperwork is well advanced, and further news on 30075 will follow shortly. It will be the last time it is at Shillingstone station for some time.