NEW driving wheels will be acquired for LMS ‘Patriot’ No. 5551 The Unknown Warrior, the LMS-Patriot Project has confirmed. The group, which is behind the new-build 4-6-0 said the decision follows an investigation with the active cooperation of manufacturer Boro Foundry, which jointly concluded that the driving wheels cannot be repaired to the standard required.
Discussions are now in progress with William Cook Cast Products on the procurement of new wheels – and the original wheel pattern has been secured for collection from Tyesley Locomotive Works for this purpose.
Meanwhile, the safety valves have been completed by Locomotive Maintenance Services in Loughborough and transferred to the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust’s (PRCLT) West Shed. Shotblasting of the frames is due to begin imminently.