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| Make a guest book entry |
We want to know what you think of the project, the more comments appearing here the better as it shows the level of interest to everyone.
Even if it's just to say good luck make an entry today.
Square windows on 50040! Regarding the enquiry about the strange square windows on 50040 I think I have the answer.
When 50040 left Booth's for preservation (?) The new owner must have installed these to try and protect the cab interior. They are made of perspex and if you look at recent photos of 50040 you will see the plastic has been damaged in many places, meaning there is little more protection for the cabs than when there was no window in place!
I think 50040 should be at least repainted to make her more presentable, as her current condition is embarrassing.
Andy
Posted by Andy Coward on 22/12/2004 13:21:18
T-Shirts Like the new T-shirts on sale. Do look closely in the drivers cab...
The Furry Dice! A perfect touch. A subtle statement to the ex-critics and "we haven't raised a finger"(!).
To REPULSE critics with excellence and levity. That's style.
Get yourselves RENOWNed for it!
Jolly well done.
PS.Tom Walker: 040? No square windows when I filmed her at Booths.
Maybe BR experiment to let drivers think they're at home watching tv?
They Obviously can't afford Furry Dice.
xmas regards
robert.
Posted by robert hurst on 22/12/2004 05:01:29
Vacs Laira v Old Oak Common Hi you can keep youre sulzer strumming machines with thier horrible rasping exhaust.Give me an English Electric dubbing devise anytime with thier distinctive dubbing sound while idling,the roar of the power unit while on full power and the very distinctive even after refurbishment whining at full speed.Four exhaust ports better than one,16 cylinders better than 12.The day those wretched shove duffs took over the NWRA Vac diagrams very bad for ,me as no longer could you have Howe,Vanguard,ndomotable,Hood,Courageous,Glorious,Furious,Ark Royal and Victorious storming out of Padd,but those horrible contraptions then ousted the Vacs on the mule getting rid of Dreadnought,Superb,Temeraire,Hercules,Royal Oak,Resoloution,Lion,Renown,Repulse,Hood,Glorious,Victorious,Illustrious,Eagle,Ajax,Duntless and Fearless.The shove duffs could not keep to the 50,s timings on the mule,so NSE quickly got rid of in favour of 159,s.The blame for the class 50,s poor availibility on the mule clearly belongs to Laira Depot.If All the class had been transfered to Old Oak Common im sure the class would have lasted longer.Anyway found my form and cheque posted today.Looking forward to joining your group
Ian
Posted by Ian Reynolds on 15/12/2004 14:54:28
visitor I am 22 years old from west yorkshire i live diesels particularly class 50's. nice site, i think i will come and see your loco's soon.
Posted by Steve Hurley on 15/11/2004 13:44:16
lucky 029 and 030, not lucky 040 I am glad to see 50030 looking so good once again, and looking forward to seeing 50029 looking as good in the future. But there is still one 50 that needs an owner who will look after it like you guys do with 29 and 30: 50040 leviathan. Does anyone know who owns this wreck of a loco and will it ever be restored and why has it got wierd square windows on one end?
Posted by Tom Walker on 07/11/2004 16:35:34
Keep the 50's going Great website to commemorate some great pieces of machinery. It's brilliant what you're doing. Keep uo the good work...
Posted by Martin Hart on 01/11/2004 18:48:30
Well said, Ben Well said, Ben, about 50033. It is good that she is not under threat of being scrapped but it seems daft that a loco in full working order is being stuck in a museum as a static exhibit. If it were a loco like 50040, that's one thing as she will probably never run under her own power again. Hope 50033 will soon come to Peak Rail to join her sisters.
Posted by Catherine Helvin on 18/10/2004 14:45:08
Great machines! Hi to everyone. I have many memories of the 50's, right from their early days when I used to go to Preston ( had an Aunt in Blackpool ) and see them brand new from Newton-le-Willows still with their silver buffers! Return trips from Crewe to Preston double headed with the most incredible acceleration! Like alot of young boys, my inquisitive nature nearly got me a severe pinching when I stuck my fingers in those side louvres!! ;-)) I live in the south, so it was nice for me when they were transferred down country.Lots of good memories on the Western mainline and Exeter route. It was great when you had a Driver who liked to give them their 'Head' I only ever had one failure (semi) and oddly enough, that was Renown on a Salisbury - Exeter working in 1989 ( November, I think ) when we stopped a good many times with low engine coolant flow! We did manage to limp to Exeter but it cost alot of time and the timetable was in a mess for a good part of the day!
Good luck with the project, It would be great to see them both working again!
I have some photos of modern traction at http://dieselcalendar.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/
Posted by Terry on 09/10/2004 23:55:18
let the beasts roar again soon Hi, just had a look at the website and have been glad to see that the hoovers are coming on well. Stick together, hoover groovers. Keep up the good work and let the beast roar again soon!
Posted by Catherine Helvin on 07/10/2004 11:44:01
Renown and Repulse Hi to Paul Taylor and all the team.I wish you all the sucess in restoring theese two machines.Both rateable locos,30 my 10th machine and 29 in my top 20.Memories of theese locos are many but id like to tell everyone about my most memorable runs.Ill start with 29.Best memory of Renown is Sept 85 St Erth to Brum on 1S71 what a hellfire run that was.Upon her withdrawl i achieved 61 runs behind her and a total of 7,163.With regards to Repulse many but best for me 03/86 Brum to Penzance another storming run.on her withdrawl 58 runs and 7,166 achieved.3o never failed on me,ironically 29 did on her last run on BR.
To the people who say too many 50,s preserved i say rubbish.Lets,look at the locos withdrawn i personally mourn.Dreadnough,Temeraire,St Vincent,Conqueror,Resoloution,Vanguard,Tiger,Courageous(8th machine)Furious(3rd machine),Victorious 7th machine)Implacable 5th machine,Bulwark,Achilles,Ajax and Dauntless.Lets look at what happened to Eagle and Howe.Looking at 40 Leviathan,i hope im wrong but i can see her going same way as 023 and 043.
Im a paid up member of The Fifty Fund and Project Defiance(Class 50 Society) and would be happy to join youre group.Class 50,s rule.Can,t wait to see Renown and Repulse back working
Good Luck Ian
Posted by 50035 Ark Royal on 04/10/2004 18:31:47
Glorious indeed Ben has a point. But we shall try again another day to get 033 into our fold.
Meanwhile shock horror no one has said wow.
So: "WOW Well done gang she's a beaut"
and looks much better than when I took her from BR in 97 in the rain at ASW in Cardiff.
The fact that you care and nurture is important in the greater scheme of things.
So When can I prime & bar her over pre-start like I did Lion 027?
Crack on!
Posted by robert hurst on 02/10/2004 13:14:43
Keep up the good work I popped into Rowsley today because I heard that there were a couple 50's there and I was very impressed to see Repulse standing opposite the platform; she looked very impressive. I wasn't expecting to see either of them in that condition. I have no idea what she looks inside but she certainly is an attention grabber at the moment. Before you make the obvious answer to "I have no idea what she looks like inside" I'll have my mebership application on its way soon.
Is it me, but does it seem weird to anybody else that while so much money and effort is being spent restoring various 50's to working condition a servicable one is being switched off and stuck inside a museum? Poor Glorious. (At least she wasn't sunk by the Germans!)
I hope to be joining you soon,
Ben.
Posted by Ben Adlington on 26/09/2004 22:18:34
Virtual tours. Hello there. Bryan Jones' Virtual tours that have just been added to the website are excellent. For those who have never been to Matlock and need insight, look no further, for anyone thinking about joining us here at the RRRG, take the tours, you won't need anymore persuading. These tours are excellent and as you can see by our progress on 50030, we have proved the doubters wrong. So join us and a be part of an on going success story and stick even more fingers up at the cynics. Hope to see you there, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 14/09/2004 08:07:12
hi Just been down to peak rail on a cycle to matlock.Just like to say hi and googd luck.
www.yujs.com
Posted by wei.sw on 04/09/2004 09:25:12
plz read GLEN HALLET GLEN WE USED TO BE FRIENDS IN THE 70'S @ MILBOURNE PORT IIANSMILNE@AOL.COM.
GOOD TO SEE REPULSE AND RENOWN GETTIN SOME GOOD ATTN NOW KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
Posted by ian on 29/06/2004 15:55:22
memories Hi their.I know it's a bit late but concrat's on your purchase of the "twin's". I have many happy memories of the hoovers working the waterloo -exeter service and many a time I used to drive the 200 odd miles down to exeter from Ashby de la zouch in Leicestershire to make the journey to waterloo hopefully behind a hoover.It was usually the 06:10 to waterloo meaning I had to set off around 03:00am,but it was worth it when upon arrival I heard the distinctive sound of a 50 at the buisness end.1st carriage window for the climb out of exeter.The first time was behind 029 & listening to her as she went up that bank has stayed with me ever since.Later on In life we met again at Bristol tm on a summer saturday.029 pulled in on a working from the west country to Manchester as far as Birmingham ns. On I hopped and looked forward to the assault on lickey bank.What a sound & I swear to this day she was doing nearly 90mph at the bottom and still doing 45/50mph as she blasted over the top & that's with 10 coaches on.Alas all good thing's come to an end & she was withdrawn but happily she is only resting and I know from reading your web site She is in very capable hand's & it will only a matter of time before she is in working order.Don't get me wrong I'm happy about 030 too and long to hear her running but 50029 Renown hold's special memories for me and I long for the day that she is complete and doing what she did best. Good luck and once again congratulation's.
Posted by C R Davis on 30/04/2004 14:27:00
greeting's from Belgium success with the project. what date's are youlooking to be finished with the restoration??? it's great to see a 'blast from the past' coming to life via this web-site.
Posted by Geoff Forknell on 20/03/2004 17:45:10
Hi Just been down to peak rail on a cycle to matlock.Just like to say hi and googd luck.
Posted by Chris on 25/01/2004 17:17:03
Hiya Hiya,
I wish u all the luck in the world with this project, Would love to see the both of em running again in the future. I will come down to rowsley and view the locos in a few weeks time. Many thankx to Paul Taylor for the e-mails reagrding this subject.. :) great website and information. ..
Best regards
Max Hall
Dance Music Producer and Remixer
www.maxhall.net
www.nauticdive.com
www.dpulse-america.com
www.toryumon.co.uk
Posted by Max Hall on 15/01/2004 19:53:51
What Next? We use them.
Posted by Paul on 07/01/2004 12:50:29
what next i know restoring these engines will take a few years but what happens afterwards.
Posted by chris on 07/01/2004 12:46:47
up the blues i have noticed comments about keeping 29 & 30
in NSE livery.
i thought we were trying to preserve the past for the future.
we could at least show`em proper goog stuff.
i say br blue large logo
Come on you blues!!
Posted by chris on 06/01/2004 21:04:59
train sim how about creating your two locos as a download for microsoft train sim
Posted by jack on 06/01/2004 20:09:46
Insurance If you wish to work on the locos, you will need to join our host railway, Peak Rail. You will then be covered by Peak Rail's insurance cover.
Posted by Paul on 06/01/2004 15:46:30
insurance if i sign up will i need insurance cover
Posted by chris on 06/01/2004 13:16:23
Thanks Chris Thanks for your comments Chris.
Firstly, we have discussed with Hornby the possibility of limited edition models of 29 & 30. At the present time they wish to concentrate on their standard production models, but they would certainly be interested in limited editions in the future.
Secondly, you ask what do you get by becoming a member? The answer is really whatever you want to get out of it. The main incentive is knowing you are helping the rebuild of these two fine locos. You also get the opportunity to come along and help us in a practical way (whether you are experienced or not, that doesnt matter). You can also have the enjoyment of buying shares and knowing you are joining us a part-owner.
I hope you decide to join us.
Paul Taylor
Posted by Paul Taylor on 06/01/2004 11:15:02
good vibrations cant wait to see your 50s roar to life.
what exactly do i get for becoming a member
Posted by chris on 06/01/2004 10:54:57
model 50s Have any of you seen hornbys superb new 50s in 00 gauge.I wonder if they`ll produce 50029 and 50030
Posted by chris on 05/01/2004 20:08:53
Hoovers rule i think you are doing a great job on these beutiful locos.good luck and keep hoovering up
Posted by Chris on 05/01/2004 19:58:11
'Hoover groovers' must stick together Great to see progress with these beautiful beasts though personally I'd prefer them to be in NSE livery (50029 in original, 50030 in revised). Stick together, hoover groovers, and keep up the good work so that once again the sound of these lovely locos may be heard. Take no notice of the critics - or should that be prove them wrong?
Posted by Catherine Helvin on 22/11/2003 21:57:19
Thanks David And thanks for joining up!!
Posted by Paul Taylor on 06/11/2003 05:17:02
back in blue it is good to see 50030 back in br blue keep up the good work
Posted by david gardner on 05/11/2003 21:18:18
good omen Travelling from Deepdene to Gatwick recently I saw some graffit reading:
"30 is FIT". Seems about right. Keep up the good work.
Posted by r on 28/10/2003 12:36:20
Hi to all at the RRRG & possible new members.l Greetings fellow members. Just saying'Hi' to all our loyal supporters. It now looks like we are now being taken seriously as a preservation group. We have along way to go, but as you all know it we will succeed. Anyone new looking at this site, don't be shy, give us your support, be part of a preservation project from the ground up, and see your hard work not go to waste, the twins will live again with your support, so jump on board, we welcome all, even if you are just donating spare change, coming to work parties or saving Ali drinks cans (raises money and helps the enviroment, 'doing our bit') it all helps. 'So don't be shy, give it a try'. Best regards, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 14/10/2003 12:44:17
Reply to Gus Hi Larry, thanks for the posting. I've seen you on the vaclads site havn't I? Winding up all the shredder neds!
When Paul Spracklen bought 50026 it was in a lot poorer condition than either of our two - and now look at the work he's done on it. Remember, whilst our two have been robbed, they never actually went into a scrapyard. Yes, we have got a big task ahead of us, but lifes a challenge aint it!
At the moment, we're taking one step at a time - get 30 working, and then 29. Mainline, whilst not ruled out (never say never etc), is not on our agenda at the moment.
Cheers
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 11/09/2003 11:55:27
Nice going chaps Nice going chaps I wish you all the best with your task I don't know how your going to do it but im sure you will, take 50021 and now 50026...
I didn't think they would ever run again anyhow what happens after you get them going ? main line running or is goal for now just to get them running first ??? Best wishes Larry
Posted by Larry Hopkins (Gillingham Gus) on 11/09/2003 05:45:54
Eurostar! Just had to say. Who wants to see a 'streak' (as in the news-Eurostar) when we can see our twins in a few years time bursting into life and doing what they were built for!!. We will do it, and we all know it. RRRG, full power to our arm. So any propective members viewing this site, be part of a success story, jump on board, you are very welcome. Cheers, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 30/07/2003 21:12:53
Doncaster Open Day Hello all. Just wanted to say, it was great to see our stand at Doncaster Open day. First time I got to meet other members (although briefly). What a nice bunch of people, I hope to meet you all again soon and lend a hand with some work on the locos. All the best, cheers, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 30/07/2003 11:55:02
What, no responce Mr Erwin???? Cat got your tougue Mr 'wanna be Grim reaper' Erwin. So, are we gonna contribute anything positive or are we still trying to think up some clever? comments to try and disuade us from our goal?. No disrespect Mr Erwin, but you deserve a good toungue lashing for your negativity now don't you?!. We proved the previous critics wrong, and your views are no different from their's. Try and think outside the box, it is possible and has been proven to work in the past and we are the people to do it. Jump on board, you may be suprised and be part of a success story to come, then you can turn round and say " I doubted them, but was wrong". I am sure we will all welcome you. Cheers, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 25/07/2003 16:57:21
Steve Erwin....who? So, another bringer of doom & gloom? Well Mr Erwin, no one is forcing you to visit our website, go to Darley Dale or even persuade you to get involved in our locos from the ground up, so kindly do us all a favour, if you can't say or contribute anything positive, sod off and leave us to it, like I've said before, would you be so negative if it was a pair of 'Kettles' in the same condition in need of restoring??, I think not, so please refrain from your negativity, you'll be eating your words when the twins are in full fettle and yes this will happen.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 21/07/2003 19:46:28
Dear Steve... Kindly stop trolling our guestbook. I don't need to say that the innards of our two 50s are substantially complete as you'd just ignore it anyway, like it seems you have other posts that point out the rather obvious errors in your troll posts. We (the Group) have been around for over a year now and we (the Group members) are having a great time socially, as well as restoring two engines. You don't have to join us but maybe you'd see things differently if you did?
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 20/07/2003 17:49:20
Global Impact Something of historical importance! you should look at your project on a global scale, you'd of been far better off getting or letting someone like Harry Needle to cut up your rust buckets, recycling is after all the key to the survival of the planet. Keep on Truckin'
Posted by Steve on 20/07/2003 14:30:19
Not lowly innacurate Intellectually disadvantaged and better off in the big house getting treatment rather than wasting hard working team members' time in pointless criticisms.
We are here to stay. Get used to it. WE are enjoying ourselves doing something productive of historical importance with the last two in the entire fleet to escape Laira & BR at the end.
Posted by r on 12/07/2003 23:00:09
Get your eyes fixed Steve Did we Steve? I've just had a look in the Shunter Gala catagory (sic) and apart from a glimpse of them in the background, I don't believe we do feature the 50s. So you're not elevated to the level of troll, you're still at the lowly inaccurate level.
Posted by Paul on 24/06/2003 21:29:04
At long last! I Know you lot will call me a troll for saying this, but its great to see that in your gallery you've put your own locos into the "Shunter Gala" catagory along with that sad act ED, at least you know your own limitations. Its no wonder that 44's painted green, it must camouflage it so that it can't be seen in the trees(or when its surrounded with all of that rattling crap in the yard a Darley Dale) Jesus' let's get out of here, were in grave danger!
Posted by Steve Erwin on 24/06/2003 20:11:53
Well Done Continuing.... So Delighted to see the twins in undercoat again. No reason why they should not be running soon.
Many thanks to many hands on deck. Renown may need intensive care but Repulse will sing readily soon.
She was bought as a runner. RRRg give her a transfusion of mercy. Within 12 months there will be new sounds in Matlock.
Long live the Twin's legacy and their voices.
Posted by Robert hurst, founder operation collingwood on 20/06/2003 23:59:16
reply to steve cutts Thank you. I am not alone then. But the 50's OOC is under threat.
Can we stop the destruction? We saved the twins - are you game....
Posted by r on 20/06/2003 23:32:57
couldnt agree more, those scotrail duffs on the mule were just pants. i cant think of anything worse from back then more so than a duff spluttering in to sherbourne yuk!
Posted by steve cutts on 29/05/2003 11:27:40
Brilliant Accounts Well done for presenting the Accounts properly as any other worthy and honest outfit.
Pity the collinwood mob couldnt do the same when they tried to rescue all the 50's. Why not is the question, and why those odd accounts records regestered?
Posted by R on 09/05/2003 19:18:44
For Factory You were TOLD what to do. Given Limits. This is NOT what OOC is used to, since it is FAMOUS for Western Joys.
Same with Stewarts Lane and Laira. Book-keepers told you (who know) what to do (by those who don't).
Having driven the ScotRail 47's off W'loo to Salisbury I should rather walk. They needed such T.L.C. and repair!
No-one BLAMES OOC ! Rather it is the home to which all 50's return. Except Vulcan Works.
My bigger fear is that OOC is lost with the CrossRail plan. Let's get together and win together.
Posted by rr on 09/05/2003 19:14:46
Class 50s are very difficult to maintain The trouble with 50s is that they have SO many ways to fail!
At Old Oak, we could spend 1000 hours overhauling an ETH class 47 and off it would go hauling trains all over the country. We may have heard about some AWS fault the loco had in Scotland months later, but that would be it.
50s, on the other hand - we would spend the same 1000 hours overhauling one, everything would pass tests OK and the wretched thing would be back 2 days later with smoke pouring out of the generator!
Posted by The Factory on 23/04/2003 18:17:39
Thanks! Thanks for all the good wishes - keep reading the restoration diary and looking at the gallery - we are progressing well, and we want everyone to know it which is why we try to keep this site up to date.
We appear to be proving the doubters wrong so far! Fingers crossed.
No, we haven't had any tarpaulins donated as yet, if you have any please do not hesitate to contact us.
50040 as far as we know is under restoration but it will be a long job, probably longer than ours.
Cheers,
John
Posted by HeavyHaul on 19/03/2003 22:35:56
Thanks!
Posted by HeavyHaul on 19/03/2003 22:32:23
well done just found your pages i,ll look again before to long good luck keep up the work fire up day will aday closer i live in sherborne dorset and rember 29 n 30 up and down here waterloo-exeter cheers
Posted by glen hallett on 17/03/2003 18:22:27
The Kid Glove Treatment I like your pic <16Feb2003-I.jpg> in the gallery.
That's the way to do it.
Has Anyone donated tarpaulins yet?
Posted by r on 07/03/2003 17:50:43
leviathon does anyone have any info on 50040 it only lives round the corner from me (if its still there, havent been up there for a while) the last i heard was some french bloke was going to have it restored? any info would be great. what livery are 29 and 30 gonna be wearing?
Posted by steve cutts on 02/03/2003 21:41:49
Staying? I am so pleased to see the words:
"We're here, We're Staying, Get used to it."
Renown & Repulse have been pretty Implacable.
Here's to a Dauntless Victory.
Good Luck Guys & Gals, Fifties Rule.
r.
Posted by r. on 21/02/2003 22:28:29
Rolfe Brothers Hi Chris,
Where do you know the Rolfe boys from?
Paul
Posted by Paul on 09/02/2003 22:53:27
Good Luck Good Luck to all involved, especially the Rolfe's. Keeps you out of trouble boys!
Posted by Chris Gray on 08/02/2003 15:30:49
Ben Hello, thanks for the offer of work. I'm looking forward to coming up and lending a hand. I wonder if those Loco Power handles )in RRR sales) could be made into working controllers for Microsoft Train Simulator?
Posted by Ben Fagin on 05/01/2003 16:47:10
Cheers Patrick Thanks for the best wishes Patrick.
Posted by Paul on 02/01/2003 19:10:41
Just to wish you luck,hope that you are all made welcome at Peak Rail. I was the ops training officer at Peak Rail. Anyway good luck.
KP Mulhall Ex BR Station Supervisor.
Posted by Patrick Mulhall on 29/12/2002 11:18:33
Steven Baxter Just glad your on board !!, look forward to meeting you.
Posted by Anthony Fisher on 18/12/2002 15:53:40
Anthony Fisher, future working party & Seasons greetings. Anthony, may I say you are an absolute star, many thanx for your mega generous offer, I hope to meet you on a working party soon and say a personnel thank you. I just wanna say to all fellow members, seasons greetings, Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year and I hope to meet some of you at a working party, sometime in January. Cheers Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 18/12/2002 00:01:28
Steve Baxter Tony - thanks for the generous offer, however no need, as Steve has now joined us.
PT
Posted by Paul Taylor on 17/12/2002 13:09:42
Steven Baxter. Having Read Steves note, Iam happy to pay his membership fee if someone can put us in touch. We need to have people like Steve on board.
Posted by Anthony Fisher. on 17/12/2002 11:09:47
Dreadnought I'm very sad to see the demise of 50001, the engine holding my person record run from Reading to Paddington and my highest top speed (110mph) with a 50. Sadly the useless Camelot PLC didn't make me a lottery winner so Dreadnought wasn't given the chance it deserved. At least Howe & Indomitable will benefit from Dreadnought's sacrifice.
Posted by mog 1098 on 17/12/2002 02:41:13
Thanks... A shame about Dreadnought, but I suppose that's the way things have to continue. Many thanks to the people who have been so supportive. All I would say is that Paul's comments are totally correct, and that one thing we DO have is total enthusiasm. I joined RRRG as 'something to do' because my partner was enthusiastic enough to join. As many will probably reinforce, I have become extremely motivated and willing to learn as much as possible, including taking courses in my spare time in order to be of better use to the group, writing a 'learner's view' restoration diary etc. To me, this is what restoration groups are all about - motivation, hard yakka and lots of fun. (Money helps, but that'll come!)
Happy Holidays to our many supporters, and to the cynical amongst you - I hope the Ghost of 50s Past manages to change your mind this Christmas!
Posted by Louise on 14/12/2002 11:17:36
No problem In response to recent entries regarding the missing parts from these locos making the task impossible. With the work we are undertaking on 50026 (which really was derelict) gives me a better position to comment than the "anon" people who have recently put their points across. 50029/50030 are in far better condition than 50026 was when we started work. This is mainly due to the fact that the locomotives never actually ended up in a scrapyard. Yes lots of parts are missing but these have been, on the whole, removed properly and not "hacked out". Replacements for most of these are available from other EE locos. The only parts very specific to the Class 50's are the CU electronic units, CU1/4/5/12 being the hardest to acquire. Given enough money these could be manufactured quite easily and using modern components could be improved. If locos such as 50026, D7076 and 46010 can be restored then 50029/30 should be fairly straightforward. Hard work, time and money are all that is required.
By the way if anyone has not heard yet, 50001 was cut up at Booth Roe on Thursday 12th December. RIP so that 50023/26 may live on!!
Posted by Paul Spracklen on 13/12/2002 21:06:44
Thanks Mr Fifty Thanks very much for your kind words Mr Fifty.
Indeed we have much work to do ahead of us, but we are bolstered by the huge support being offered to us, and by the excellent technical teams we are forming.
Seasons greetings!
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 09/12/2002 13:31:04
Seasons Goodwill How nice to see serious work being undertaken after the political battles of the former owners nearly lost the locos.
Perhaps if that original money had been spent ON the locos the task ahead might be less arduous.
This venture and those akin such as 50023 are repeating the Barry Steam rescue which was sneered at by incompetents of their day.
Some folk's hobby is to sit watching football, but they are not participating. Some folk collect stamps and at least leave something for posterity
RRR Group has taken on a mantle worthy of a place in history.
Many owners make bulk buying possible. Spare parts are not an insuperable problem:
Look at how the car owners clubs work: Mini, Jaguar, Bentley.....
This may be an ambitious task but so was Duke of Gloucester, Western Prince and countless Castles and Bullieds.
Bodywork is already under way while resources are marshalled for the internal work.
A brave exercise deserving respect and applause.
"Dauntless, Fearless and Victorious".
Posted by Mr Fifty on 08/12/2002 04:15:12
Thank you Thanks Brian. Same to you too.
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 03/12/2002 16:57:06
put the handbags away II HHH please be careful what you write on the guestboard as liable is something you should be aware of.
as is i have no requirement for class 50 parts not that i have anything against them, but the opertunity has never arrisen.
i wish you the best of luck with restoring the two loco's and all the best for the future.
Posted by weatgerm on 03/12/2002 15:31:42
Missing Parts... You seem to know an awful lot about the parts missing from our two locos... Maybe you can shed some light on which of your "complete demics" might be using them...
Posted by HHH on 03/12/2002 13:00:03
Missing parts... To start with we have surveyed the locos. Several times.
Both locos are missing parts, but generally they are the SAME parts. Hence there is no need to cut up one of the locos, we simply(!) source two of every missing component (although we only need one in the short-term).
You say "logic would dictate that replacement of these items is going to be difficult...". Not so. We are receiving offers of suitable parts on a regular basis, and have already taken delivery of several critical 'missing' items.
I'm all for listening to advice from people who have been there before, but to say "Aquiring enough parts to get both loco's running and servicable spares to keep them operational is beyond feasible" shows a lack of understanding of what is actually missing (possibly not your fault). Having them described in the press as "derelict" is both incorrect and unhelpful. There are loco's out there being restored that our in a lot poorer position than our two.
The simple fact is both loco's ARE restorable, one a lot quicker than the other.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 03/12/2002 10:09:22
put the handbags away! when you survey the two loco's you are going to find lots of items missing and these items will have been removed by people ( in the past ) who know how rare these parts are!
so logic would dictate thar replacement of these items is going to be very dificult becuase very few groups are going to let them go ( because of rarity )this leaves you chase high demand parts from a low supply market place.
Aquiring enough parts to get both loco's running and servicable spares to keep them operational is beyond feasible.
speeking as someone who has restored complete demics to operational use i talk though experience.
The motive for making the decision has to be through reason and non bias.
Posted by weatgerm on 03/12/2002 09:28:17
I live in hope... ...that one of these days someone will actually have something useful to say.
Ho Hum.
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 02/12/2002 16:56:52
It's a troll, Paul... Don't bother feeding it (by replying to it directly). Attention is what it craves but trolls never answer direct questions. Leave it alone and it'll go back under its bridge...
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 02/12/2002 15:52:31
Please explain... Please explain why you are under the impression we would need to cut one loco to get the other going?
If you'd like to explain by reasoned argument your way of thinking, we would all love to hear from you. However if you cannot convince us, i'm afraid we're likely to annoy you by restoring them both.
Over to you....
Paul Taylor
Posted by Paul Taylor on 02/12/2002 14:11:26
It's been a while... ...since we last had a genuine troll in here. I don't think much to the quality of the latest one either - trollmeter is barely registering. Go back to troll school and maybe you'll graduate before we get one of the locos going (or maybe not).
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 02/12/2002 13:34:34
Nike Swoosh maybe upon inspection you boys will realise that you are going to have to cut one of the loco's to have even a remote chance of getting the other going.
lets face it one restored 50 is better than two no hope demics!
Posted by weatgerm on 02/12/2002 11:53:10
Cheers Paul S. Paul Spracklen deserves our thanks for the donation of the roof-section of Eagle, still at Blaenavon, and also for the offer of a loan of his Class 50 manuals for copying. He has also offered us a guided tour around Indomitable for taking notes/photos etc. Cheers Paul.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 16/11/2002 08:25:20
Look what can be achieved! If you want to see what can be achieved on a derelict Class 50 with the right team of dedicated people (and quite a lot of money) then look at the 50026 site at www.50026.com. This has been updated today with the very latest shots of the restoration work. Hopefully someday 50029 (and even 50030!) may look like this!
Posted by Paul Spracklen on 15/11/2002 23:46:02
Thanx, and rock on May I say, these people are the the business, they have welcomed me with open arms & I dare say I shall repay their kindness in full once I get the chance. Anyone who has doubts, dismiss them, we will get these beasts running again one way or the other. We are for REAL, we will prove the doom & gloom merchants wrong, it may take a while, but we will TRIUMPH!! I will be there, & I hope you fellow nutters will be there too. Give your all, and be part of a sucess story that will bring forth fruition. Cheers Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 11/11/2002 19:07:38
Reply to Keith We can sort out membership payment by installments - check your e-mail.
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 01/11/2002 19:41:46
restore renown in memeory of my fathers favourite class and renown being the last of the class i needed and saw at exeter on the way home from plymouth.as i don't have money to spare i would like to offer my services as an electrician to help you restore either renown or repulse.
please let me know if i can help.
thanks
keith
Posted by keith williams on 01/11/2002 19:18:53
Welcome Hi Gavin, received your form & cheque, welcome aboard!
Regards,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 30/10/2002 11:09:51
Another reply to Gavin Everybody is welcome to join the RRRG, regardless of the skill sets you have. Some of us hope to learn as we go along but everybody (in life, not just RRRG) can teach somebody something.
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 29/10/2002 10:50:37
Thanks, cant wait. I am afraid I dont have much experience, just a pair of hands as part of the Class Forty Preservation Society 10 years ago!!!! BUT,
I have a fair bit of enthusiasm and a partner who says shes prepared to lend a hand too!!
So sadly we are only qualified to general dogsbody standard, I hope this is still useful?
Posted by Gavin on 28/10/2002 20:23:51
Reply to Gavin Hi Gavin,
Thanks for the positive entry in the guestbook. We look forward to receiving your money(!) and welcoming you on board. Once a member, you will be able to access the members-only discussion forums. We also hope you do decide to join us up at Rowsley on the locos. What groups/locos have you been involved with previously?
Shares can be bought at any time, either in £100 blocks or by standing order installments of smaller value.
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 27/10/2002 20:11:13
Most impressive!!! Just a quick line to say how much I like the site. I have been "out of action" for a few years but its good to see there are still die hard preservationists out there willing to save Locos. I have been impressed enough to join up (cheque is in the post!)I may even have to don the old overalls - if they fit.
Quick question & may sound daft - can you keep buying shares over time and build them up to the different levels or are they a "one off buy deal?
Posted by Gavin Wright on 27/10/2002 18:35:58
Reply to Steve Baxter Hi Steve,
We'd like to have you on board and we'll sort out an offer for you to join that suits you. Can't be easy in your situation but anyone that wants to see 29 and 30 running again is welcome in RRRG. Watch your e-mail!
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 21/10/2002 11:13:05
Reply to Dominic Jackson Thanks very much my friend, appreciate the reply. I'd like to join, but if you can bear with me for a while, I'll sort something out. It may sound like I'm tight or 'hard-up' as you said, but I'm a single parent of 3 young children, so money is a premium, but I still am interested in joining. Please email with your instalment proposals and we'll go from there. Cheers mate, we'll get the beasts roaring again. Cheers Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 20/10/2002 22:47:24
Reply to Govenor Could you please email me - loco50029@hotmail.com
Thanks
Posted by Paul Taylor on 19/10/2002 19:16:13
Govenor I Have a servicable Govenor to suit a class 50 available for sale, I know its a bit early in the proceedings but make me an offer if you want it. You know what its worth.
Posted by Govenor on 19/10/2002 14:10:12
Reply to Steve Baxter A year's membership is only £20 you know - 38p per week :-) I'm sure we'll take installments! If you can't afford this then I guess you are hard-up!
Thanks for the support though; we appreciate it amongst a sea of naysayers :-)
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 16/10/2002 16:03:13
Congratulations Nice one chaps, sorry I can't be involved, money situations won't permit it, step one of many. I'm here in verble & moral support. Stick at it, and bloody good luck.
Cheers
Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 14/10/2002 01:05:29
Reply to Nosy Parker Sorry, we've beena bit busy moving locos around the country...
...nice try though.
Posted by John Hayes on 09/10/2002 23:02:09
a Q 4 paul PLEASE DEFINE NORMAL? :oS
Posted by mustaffaleek on 03/10/2002 20:33:56
Further to Paul's reply... There is a small "free for all" area of the discussion board but it doesn't seem to be very heavily used. The main action takes place in the members' area which is encrypted unless you log in (and you don't get a username/password unless you join RRR Group :-)
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 02/10/2002 11:37:18
Reply to Nosy Parker No, we're still alive and kicking. All 'discussion' now takes place on the discussion-pages (members-only though, sorry). This guestbook is left for 'normals' to sign.
We'll be issuing some more public news-updates soon.
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 02/10/2002 06:56:24
Sorry to wake you Its all gone very quiet round here. Anyone would think that RRRG hd disbanded.
Posted by Nosy Parker on 02/10/2002 00:23:43
Reply to Paul Taylor Thank you for your offer to join up. However as this would conflict with my personal views, I shall decline the offer.
Posted by Anti-Anorak on 21/09/2002 11:42:15
Even more miffed! Seems this book attracts more sulzer "fans"....
Why not start their own page of shite as it were where they can comment on matters of more relevance to themselves?
The level of debate here has become so benal as to render the average sun reader a right to wallow!
Talking of wallowing..... Whats this about hippos???????????
And what..... Oh What is this fascination with 47s?????????? Such "marvelous" a tool ought to have seen around 140 odd examples saved for posterity by now! Where are they?
Move on lads! This site caters for 50 fans, set up your own site eh!
Regards,
Miffed.....
Posted by Miffed! on 21/09/2002 01:59:28
Be Afraid Paul & Co., my advice to you if you realy want to succeed is to stick together
through any disputes you have between yourselves, honest - you will have them!
Be prepared to bully your membership, particlarly the INactive ones.
Don't be afraid to move railways, Peak Rail are quite sensible but you never know.
Only 10 % of your members will lift a finger to help and it will always be the same.
Finally, with locos that have sat in a field for 8 years, good luck!
Posted by Diesel Preservation Has Been on 20/09/2002 20:52:00
ants has anyone ever heard of maximum rating and continuous rating?
Posted by Mr G. erator on 20/09/2002 10:25:22
Blimey!!! Goodness gracious me init! We have got very technical in here of late. Some of it is even correct!!! If only BR knew of the high voltage situation. The class could still be running now! SIGH! sigh of relief maybe? Somebody once told me that I=V/R. Dont know much about that though.
Still you live and learn.
Posted by Milge on 19/09/2002 20:34:40
High Technology At least the engine we had on the Ark had an electric
oil priming pump. Unlike those class 50s with a hand pump!
Posted by Noah on 18/09/2002 22:49:28
scones with dead flys i once saw a 50 move a train, a fine 1000amps was recorded, i was startled to how this could be, so much so i fainted.
Posted by Dougal on 18/09/2002 09:46:58
currents and sultanas >>6000amps pretty impossible for any diesel loco with a DC generator to produce....
Not so, I have seen a 47 push 7800 amps generator current (albiet only for 2-4 seconds while it started the heavy train off) but a 50s yellow line is about 1700 Amps isn't it? (a while since I have been in a 50 cab) this is traction motor current. 3*2 motors in parallel approx = to 3*1700 is 5100 generator amps - and quite rite, poor commutation does cause flashover - be this caused by dirt/brush bounce high speed....just some designs more suseptable than others
Posted by whateveryouantittobe on 17/09/2002 22:14:54
Bang If I remember correctly; class 45s max 4200 amps and cl 47 max 4500 amps, so
Dougal is quite right that 6000 amps is a lot to ask.
Anyway its high voltage, poor commutation and above all DIRT
that cause flash overs.
Posted by Decompounding Winding on 17/09/2002 16:57:45
amps go Pok! to be honest id like to see a 50 produce 6000amps pretty impossible for any diesel loco with a DC generator to produce. i agree with decompounding chap, brush and crompton parkinson got it right,far smoother and kinder to all machines within the loco.
Posted by Dougal on 17/09/2002 10:19:09
amps go Pok! to be honest id like to see a 50 produce 6000amps pretty impossible for any diesel loco with a DC generator to produce. i agree with decompounding chap, brush and crompton parkinson got it right,far smoother and kinder to all machines within the loco.
Posted by Dougal on 17/09/2002 10:07:53
AMPS! Dougal, 6000 amps to off will make a mess of
traction motor contactor tips. Cl. 50 main gens. might
have been more reliable if the control system had been more,
er - conventional. I ask you, load up the main gen. THEN
increase engine output! What was wrong with the Sulzer
system of revving the engine, then loading the gen. then
then increasing engine output and gen. exititation together?
Posted by Decompounding Winding has undone again on 16/09/2002 18:56:01
Reply to Chris Hi Chris. Thanks for the supportive note. Cracking April 1st tour behind the 14! Negative comments? No, I dont think we've had one yet, everyones been very supportive(!)
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 16/09/2002 14:42:38
hi there!!!! good luck with the project, hope it goes well, im currently working on a restoration project and all ill say is enjoy it, take the negative comments and laugh them off, if you want a look a bit of inspiration visit www.d9531.com i know its only a 14, but there isnt an area of this loco that hasnt been touched, any advice you want give a shout.
Posted by chris laguod on 16/09/2002 14:15:03
Reply to Anti-Anorak Thanks for your entry in the guestbook.
So you think the 50s are substandard compared to similar engines....such as?
You sound very keen to join us. If you let me have your name & address i'll get some forms sent off to you.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 16/09/2002 14:01:22
Scrap or Not Scrap I would only puchase shares, if the value of scrap steel sharply increased!
Whilst I firmly belive in the industrial heritage movemnt, I have to agree with the critics.
Not only are the 50's substandard compared with other similar machines, there are also ~20 preserved already. Sounds like a group of anoraks with little practical knowledge and nothing better to do are the only people optimistic about these locomotives being of any value.
Posted by Anti-Anorak on 16/09/2002 12:50:49
reply to dougal i counldnt agree more m8!
Posted by laira couldnt maintain a goat on 16/09/2002 11:19:50
reply to whateveryouwantittobe awwwwwwwwwwwwww.....did i upset you? spanners....hmmmmm dont you apply paint with those?!
it wasnt the fact of shutting off from full power to off that causes damage, the damage was done at high speeds usually, lots of volts, not alot of amps,its not the curent that causes flashovers its high voltage you muppet. i couldnt understand why EE fitted them with generators and not alternators, for something what was designed and built late on they used frankenstein technology when far more reliable alternator technology was available, and as for the power unit..lets just soup up a 40 engine and stress it even more!!! top idea! NOT. EE should of stuck to cookers and cookery books :oP
Posted by dougal, jack n ted on 16/09/2002 10:13:38
reply to paul taylor 14,20,33,35,40,42,45,47,52 o and ive been involved in work on a 50
Posted by dougal on 16/09/2002 10:02:05
reply to Dougal Judging by your comments Dougal - you don't know one end of a spanner to the other. 50s were not the most reliable - but this was often a result of LA mtce (or lack of) and Driver Skill (again lack off). Compared to the "Duffs" that operated the mule, and anywhere else for that matter, the 50s held their own, no problem, and needed brake blocking only every three days compared to a 47s every day on the mule. (this I believed was caused by drivers leaving breaking to the last minute in a 47 to maintain the 50 timings!) and yes, fact, failure per 1000 mile was much higher in the class 47s NOT THE CLASS 50s. So every time anyone slags off the reliability of a 50, anyone who has any mechanical/electrical know-how knows that the EE Type 4s main competitor was ALWAYS worse off. Lets face it, a SULZER 12LDA28-C (from a 47) is just TWO Sulzer 6LDA28-B 6-cyl bolted together. LITERALLY. so two 27s do go into 47!
So if you have any more unkind words, please keep them to yourself.........
As for the driver skill - when pushing 1000s of amps (somewhere in the region of 6000A generator current) when the driver went from Full powere to off this ould cause seriuos electrical damage/flashover - I never didn't understand why BR never fitted some kind of back EMF protection device to the generator...........
Posted by whateveryouwantittobe on 14/09/2002 23:39:01
Screw the critics (pt2) Yet again I have to champion the brave geezers involved with this worthwhile project at putting 2 machines worth their salt back into their former glory. Your negative comments are welcomed, it makes it all worthwhile even if it is to prove you wrong. Try and help, but not hinder, I say again, if a steam loco (ex-Barry) was in danger of being scrapped, you would be up in arms, now wouldn't you??!! so if you ain't gonna help, sod off and stick to your other projects (Triang would be so touched?!) and leave these people alone. Support them or f##k off, and do what you seem to do very well....and pass non-constructive comments. We are all rail fanatics, so support our cause and stop your bitching. Hope you take this as a comment, not an attack on what you do.
Cheers
Steve
Posted by Steve Baxter on 14/09/2002 19:07:25
I'll help Tell you what, if you borrow a battery charger,
sling 50030 in charge & top up the water.
I will come along and fire it up for you. Thats all
we used to do with 50s that had sat in the scrap road
for months.
Posted by Ex Laira Fitter on 13/09/2002 21:15:37
A trip down Memory Lane I was reading some of the early entries on the guestbook, and I had to smile at Melvyn Wilkie's from 16/05/02. I see you havn't posted a reply since we won the twins, found a new home and are in the final stages of transporting them, have you Melvyn? Mmm. Gone oddly quiet.
Big up to all the folk who have supported us.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 13/09/2002 14:29:53
Reply to Dougal More worthwhile locos?
Posted by Paul Taylor on 13/09/2002 13:58:23
reply to mo(n)g nope cant say i did, i had a life instead pal. i had plenty of experiance before 1992, just not the sat on a coach riding behind somat that sounds like a hippo s**ting in choppy water kind, i lived....not exsisted, happy 15 years restoration guys, you have got a lot of sweat n tears ahead, i should know, ive been in the game for 15 years, and it never ends. thats my experiance mog, i didnt ride around behind them years ago, i was restoring more worth while locos. Ta Raaaaaaaaaaa
Posted by dougal on 08/09/2002 12:02:40
Education Notes I agree with Mog. I actually travelled 400,000 miles behind 50s from 1982-1992 and had only ONE major failure (50012 at Newbury on 1A84)....
Posted by Rabs on 06/09/2002 23:03:24
Education Notes I agree with Mog. I actually travelled 400,000 miles behind 50s from 1982-1992 and had only ONE major failure (50012 at Newbury on 1A84)....
Posted by Rabs on 06/09/2002 23:02:18
Education notes Add class 28 to the list. Apologies to Bone fans as the 58s are a very good design, unfairly dispatched by the plague of GM junk!
Posted by Mog1098 on 05/09/2002 01:57:17
Education needed for Dougal........ To Dougal - What planet are you on? Nedworld no doubt! The 50s lasted 25 years and probably ran over 100 million miles. They were the fastest and most powerful type 4s BR ever ran. Unlike many other locos considered to be a success they did exactly what they were designed for and never had be re-engined or de-rated. BR lumbered them with dodgy first generation electronics which didn't help reliability, but the morons who go on about the 50/50s never check the facts. High speed passenger locos invariably suffer more stress and the 50s were usually MORE reliable than 47/4s employed on the same type of high speed duties.
Consider this: 43,000 miles behind 50s and one failure. 69,000 miles behind 47s and FIVE failures. This is what I've experienced between 1977 and 2002. So Dougal, what can you add to these figures (assuming you've any experience before 1992)?
Why don't you read and learn about these classes? 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 29, 35, NBR D600s, 42, 43, 48, 52, 54, (58?), 71, 74 and 84. All lasted for less time than the class 50s and did far less work for BR.
Posted by Mog 1098 on 05/09/2002 01:49:24
reply to paul errrrrrrr nope, cant, soz! good luck anyway
Posted by dougal on 03/09/2002 15:09:27
reply to paul errrrrrrr nope, cant, soz! good luck anyway
Posted by dougal on 03/09/2002 15:08:07
Reply to Dougal Thanks Dougal. So I can sign you up for membership then?
Posted by Paul Taylor on 03/09/2002 14:50:32
Good luck teds your gonna need it! if you feel like giving up,do so, two less 50's in the preservation movement is more than welcome by me! why preserve on of BR's worst investments? perhaps we all need to look at them now and again to remind ourselves what a disater they were and appricate the finer ones around.
Kind regards
Dougal xxxxxxxx
Posted by ted,ted & ted on 03/09/2002 14:37:31
Loco Fitter - Model Railways don't count??!!!! Well its nice that 'Railway Fitter' thinks so much of an of a genuine attempt at 'Full Scale Preservation', Triang (RIP) and Hornby must be so proud of a person who's only goal in life seems to be, is piss off genuine preservationist's who are trying to save some of the best loco's this country has ever seen, (Cromptons and Deltics excused here). If you can't say something positive, don't speak at all, no one needs a negative vibe....so don't do it! Stick with re-brushing your obsolete 'Castle', an tad more taxing than working / supporting a 'Real' loco repair job. Stick with guys, we will be with you in spirit and support. All the best, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 28/08/2002 21:41:27
Bring your beer money too Hi Toton,
Look forward to seeing you at Peak Rail; make sure you join us & PR first though.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 28/08/2002 15:18:08
Nuggets ! Just looked at your gallery, and loco fitter is right, you have inherited a pile of crap. But hthe way he's gone about saying it is all wrong. Obviously you had seen these parts before you got the locos and you knew what you were looking at. It just shows that even when faced with things like that you still wanted and did accept the challenge. I.ll pop up and have a look at you when you get to Peak Rail. Might even bring some overalls.
Posted by Toton Recall on 27/08/2002 20:45:07
Further Reply to Loco Fitter Hello Mr Loco Fitter,
I tried to send you an email, but the address you gave is a false one. Sort of takes away from your arguement dont you think?
Posted by Paul Taylor on 27/08/2002 15:21:41
Reply to Phillip Howell Hi Phillip, thanks for your comments. Join us and we'll be only too pleased to let you know the details of the move.
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by on 27/08/2002 15:00:34
Reply to Loco Fitter Hi Loco Fitter. Thanks for your comments. The spare pistons etc may well be rubbish, but we only paid pennies for them, and they are ours, but thanks for your useful tip! As for the picture caption, I am sorry if you did not understand this, but we were being sarcastic - poking a little bit of fun at ourselves. OBVIOUSLY its going to take more than a little oil!! Check out all the captions, they are not meant to be taken seriously! I am sorry if we gave the impression of being a bunch of spotters who thought a bit of WD40 should do the trick!! I am sorry if you dont like the vibes we are giving out, but if you cant understand the humour, maybe there are other Groups you should condsider joining. We dont intend on being one of those po-faced groups always bitching & moaning. As for seeing some action, we have formed a Group, bought two locos and will be moving them shortly, all since March - how much action do you want for heavens sake?? People joining us and helping out will result in more action than just putting comments in the guestbook. Anyway, thanks for comments. What locos have you worked with?
Posted by Paul Taylor on 27/08/2002 14:59:45
Class 50029/50030 Could you please E:mail me when you are moving these 50s because i was not here when they came to blaenavon so i would like to see them go thanks. Phil
Posted by Phillip Howell on 27/08/2002 14:46:12
Posted by Phil on 27/08/2002 14:41:47
Come back to earth. Hi Guy's. Just been looking at your gallery page's of your work party at Blanavon, here's a bit of advice. All of thows pistons and liners are scrap, the turbos are too. Don't waist your time with this rubbish. Also statements like "a little bit of oil and this will be OK" just makes you look like idiots, there are people willing to help you but you're giving out the wrong vibes. I dont want to be negitive towards your project or the people involved, but try not to make yourselves look like a load of SPOTTERS, stop kissing each others butts and lets see some action!
Posted by Loco Fitter on 27/08/2002 14:30:09
well done well done on getting the twins. now the hard work starts. hope to join you soon and offer help.
Posted by mr ed on 12/08/2002 15:17:28
good luck Good luck with the project -hope you keep the web site up to date with developments.
I've four railways sleepers as a flower bed in my garden if you get desperate :)
Posted by Paul Hammond on 09/08/2002 20:12:00
Well done, screw the critics Congratulations, most of us only dream about owning 1 loco, let alone 2, well done. Screw the critics, most of them are either pro-steam or are already involved with there own dream of owning a loco. It's been said before, would you let The 'Mallard' go for scrap? no, our preference is classic Diesels, not that we dislike Steam, we like diesels. I grew up with the 50's thundering pass my mums window btween Vauxhall and Queenstown road in London, so a big soft spot for the beasts. Well done, I hope things go well. In the next couple of weeks I'll try and send you some of my photos of 50's that I've taken, not the best but your welcome to them. Also I have a quantity of Railway Magazines you can have to sell to raise funds gratis, but you'll to collect them, a few railway tickets in return would be nice though. Keep up the good work, I'll keep in touch for progress reports, sorry no donations as I'm not in the position to do so. Cheers, Steve.
Posted by Steve Baxter on 06/08/2002 13:30:09
Well Done Thanx for certificate etc most impressed.
Relieved that twins are in good hands after ten years.
A real rescue tale! Now the work begins. All hands on deck!
Any sponsors out there?
Posted by R on 03/08/2002 14:00:41
Triumph I've just spent a few days in Cornwall, and had a bit of fun on the Bodmin and Wenford railway, where 50 042 Triumph is based, and is a very happy hoover. When one of our pair is up and running, we should do a tour down there. Also. thanks for the certificate.
Posted by Phil Casey on 02/08/2002 21:55:25
Certificates Nice work Dominic - mine arrived this week.
Posted by raz on 01/08/2002 14:35:09
Membership cards and share certificates... ...are being actively worked on (by me :-) as of this moment. I hope to start sending them out later this week. They look, if I do say so myself, rather damn fine!
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 29/07/2002 13:51:22
Wishing you well... Good luck on restoring those engines.
Posted by Harvey Henkelman on 24/07/2002 04:32:53
Come and Join Us Now we have the locomotives, and a host of spares. Our next hurdle is to move the twins to a safe haven. The problem is this costs money, a lot of money. We have some funds remaining after making the final payment to OpCo, but we need more. The welcome is there for anybody interested in joining a serious perservation/rebuild project at the beginning. The party is still on, come and join us.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 19/07/2002 16:07:04
Sitting on the fence part 2 The time had come! we now own x2 50's and they need to be moved to a safe home where they can be restored sympathetically to a standard we we all know they deserve.This site gets an enormous respsonse every single day. To all you out there that have shown an interest, please come and join this remarkable group. Your help WILL make th e difference!
Posted by Derek Cogswell on 13/07/2002 03:01:21
Hi Bill,
Thanks for your comments re: the website. You're right, the Group Page does need updating and this will be done (hopefully) tonight.
The 'mystery' committee members will be revealed!
I can however categorically confirm that we do NOT have a trustee of Op.Co. involved in the Group. There are three trustee's of Op.Co: Sir Simeon Bull, David N Clough & Colin Broome. These three are NOT members, shareholders or committee members of the Group, either presently or previously.
We are assured from David Clough that the tendering process was fair and that the competition for the locos was very fierce, but we won by a whisker. There were other parties bidding who have a far better relationship with Mr Clough than we enjoy, and so I don't think that any rumours of wrong-doing can be levelled at our door. We spent a lot of time putting our bid together to show to Op.Co that as well as being a financially strong bid, it was the BEST bid for all concerned.
Similarly, as you say, we cannot be held accountable if other people did not receive forms; that is a matter between themselves and Mr Clough.
Its a great shame that these rumours start, and other groups have suffered in the past from false rumours and accusations.
We started this Group with the best of intentions and intend to continue in this manner.
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 11/07/2002 15:26:07
On the fence I remember the 50s way back when they were running the WCML - they definitely belong in pairs don't they?!
I'd like to offer my support, but have heard a number of rumours about the sale which are not helped by the 'mystery' committee members on the website. In particular, one rumour suggests that a prominent Trustee of Operation Collingwood is heavily involved in the group - which does beg the question as to whether the tendering process was all above board! (Another is that various interested parties who expressed an interest in tendering never received their forms, but that's not RRRG's problem.)
These rumours are probably just from saddoes who didn't want to see the pair saved trying to knock your success, but why not show everyone you're above board and reveal who the 'mystery men' are!?
By the way, this website is superb!
Posted by Bill Thornley on 11/07/2002 14:47:56
Difficult, not Impossible. Congratulations again to Paul and everyone else involved in the sucessful bid. What lies ahead will be difficult no doubt, and it will cost a
lot of money. Once the pair go to a safe site the priority is to cosmetically restore them. I'm tired of visiting preserved railways & seeing rusting hulks in weed infested sidings.
To anyone thinking of helping, £100 may be a lot of money in one go, but a mere £20 is enough to be a member. The more who join up the better.
Posted by Chris M on 10/07/2002 17:06:18
Difficult, not Impossible. Congratulations again to Paul and everyone else involved in the sucessful bid. What lies ahead will be difficult no doubt, and it will cost a
lot of money. Once the pair go to a safe site the priority is to cosmetically restore them. I'm tired of visiting preserved railways & seeing rusting hulks in weed infested sidings.
To anyone thinking of helping, £100 may be a lot of money in one go, but a mere £20 is enough to be a member. The more who join up the better.
Posted by Chris M on 10/07/2002 16:42:43
battleships?????? Renown and Repulse were not battleships. They were battlecruisers. There is a difference! Good luck with your project, I look forward to seeing them both running again.
Posted by andrew brindley on 10/07/2002 14:54:45
F@*k 'em Pessimism and Realism tell you its an almost impossible task. But wouldn't it be good to prove 'em wrong!!! Good Luck!
Posted by Agent X on 09/07/2002 16:30:02
50 026 Looking at the comments from Paul Spracklen, he sounds pessimistic and understandably so but he is being realistic too. Having looked at his web site (www.50026.com)- and DO have a look if you haven't already - what a fantastic job so far.
If inspiration was ever needed...Well done Paul and all involved!!!
Posted by Keith Webb on 09/07/2002 04:07:08
New Members Now we are control of a (small) fleet of 2 Class 50's we need more members to join us both for the financial strength this will give us, and for the larger working parties we can arrange. Please get in touch with me (loco50029@hotmail.com) if you need any further info on the Group or its aims.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 08/07/2002 16:54:10
Congratulations! Well done to you all for saving these two fine locos. I'll join when I get enough cash to spare!
Posted by Ben Fagin on 08/07/2002 16:10:44
Reply to Paul Spracklen Paul, could we make contact by email please (my address is loco50029@hotmail.com). Yes, we are all aware of the magnitude of the task. The majority of the missing items are readily available from other classes of locos. The ones that arn't we will be using our contacts to adapt and modify parts. To be honest, people said the same thing regarding 50026 and yourself, yet you have proved people wrong with only your own financial input. We have strength of numbers (and growing daily) and a huge list of contacts who know people who know contacts etc.
Anyway, lets start off on the right foot. You mentioned previously you would be willing to help us either with any spares you do not require, or with your Portugese CP 1800 contacts. It is about this that we would like to talk to you about. Please send me an email (unless you want to post your address in the guestbook and I will contact you).
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 08/07/2002 06:43:48
Good Advice by Joe Excellent advice from Joe C (below) follow this and you won't go far wrong. To be honest I personnally doubt you will be able to restore either loco, but I would love to be proved wrong. You will need VERY dedicated people, a very understanding restoration site (not necessarily a railway!) and a LOT of money. Think of the worst case and double it!! Unfortunately not all the parts you need are available from other locos so you will either have to pay vast sums to have them made or do some redesign work.....best of luck
Posted by Paul Spracklen (50026) on 07/07/2002 21:03:23
This Pilgrims progress will be one hard slog. You guy's have got to be admired for your guts (or is it just blind determination). Being the part owner or three loco's myself I know that you feel that what you are doing is the right thing. There are alot of people who are laughing at you right now, and its these people that you've got to avoid, god knows i've met enough of them. The only real advice I can give you is that when you take you loco's to a Railway make sure they are clear on the state of your loco's, because there,s nothing worse than being moaned at every week about the state of, orlack of progress on your machine. Don,t be rushed, if you want a nuts and bolts restoration then do it, take your time and make sure its a good job if your going to do it at all.
Posted by Joe Coultas on 07/07/2002 20:19:27
Final thoughts after beers hopefully Repulse will be able to work with Indomitable and revisit 50 terroritory in the future, with a bit of an Old Oak engines come back.
Posted by Phil Casey on 07/07/2002 01:05:38
Sober? I can't remember what happened!
Posted by Bryan Jones on 06/07/2002 22:19:38
Anyone sober yet?
Posted by Paul Taylor on 06/07/2002 21:56:16
Well done lads! Just logged on to the site (06/07/02 PM). A bit late to hear the news but was hesitant that it might not be good!
The 'easy' bit is over now!
The title translated is 'WELL DONE LADS'!!! Capitals seem more appropriate!
Posted by Keith Webb on 06/07/2002 17:38:23
Relief! Having been a nervous wreck for three days since I found out about the project (I'm ashamed to admit!), I have a feeling of total relief on finding out the news that we have secured the future of these two wonderful locomotives and can't wait to begin the task of bringing the twins back to their former glory. A big thank you must go to the committee members for all the hard work that they done so far.
Posted by Derek Cogswell on 05/07/2002 21:59:37
From the secretary... I've been over the moon all afternoon. It will be a long fight, and having seen the photos of the cosmetic restoration done to Indy on Paul S's web site, I am very envious! :-) I saw 426 (peeping out from under a tarpaulin!) from a charter train round MoD Bicester on Easter Sunday and she looked resplendent. Hopefully one day our pair will look this smart as well.
Meantime let's just celebrate!
Posted by Dominic Jackson on 05/07/2002 20:12:03
Fantastic! Best of luck with the restoration efforts, and in finding a home for the twins.
Posted by Rick Cullen on 05/07/2002 19:45:11
Llongyfarchiadau! Great news Paul, please phone me soonest
The title? Welsh for 'congratulations'
Kind Regards
John Down
Posted by John Down on 05/07/2002 17:22:45
Splendid news This is great news! Congratulations to each and everyone involved in this project.
Posted by Paul Sturm on 05/07/2002 17:08:58
Lets celebrate!! Great news that the "twins" have been saved from the dreaded executioners. However, lets not forget that it is now that the hard work commences and that more funds will be needed. Any of you out there who have not yet subscribed for shares, now is the time to do so.
Posted by Max Macpherson on 05/07/2002 14:12:02
Reply to Paul Taylor Thanks for the praise re:26. Of course we will support your preservation work, after all, we know more than anyone what you will have to go through. I am sure there are parts we can help you with not just from our stores but from our contacts in Portugal (CP 1800s) and of course you are welcome to visit 50026 anytime to take drawings and photos of missing pipework, cubical etc....
Posted by Paul Spracklen on 04/07/2002 15:43:05
Reply to Paul Spracklen Many thanks for your posting to our guestbook Paul, and can I say what a brilliant job you are doing with 26.
Should we be successful we look forward to joining the list of teams involved in 50 preservation and restoration. We are well aware of the costs involved, and the timescales - and I am sure you would agree, no one should go into diesel preservation expecting anything but expensive long hard work.
Obviously if you would like to assist us, we look forward to receiving your membership form!! Seriously though, if we win, we look forward to a possible mutually beneficial relationship in trading/swopping 50 bits.
As you say, may be the best man/team win!!
Cheers,
Paul
Posted by Paul Taylor on 04/07/2002 14:42:56
May the best man win!! Just to say good luck with your bid. I am expecting you to succeed. But if the locos do go for scrap remember that this will benefit the remaining class 50s as a whole. I hope you are ready for the costs involved. We expect the restoration of "Indomitable" to exceed £150,000 and you are looking at the same sort of cost to just get ONE of the twins running. The ETH/AUX generator repair alone is likely to exceed £20,000....rewiring another £20,000....keep those cheques coming in.
Posted by Paul Spracklen on 04/07/2002 13:58:40
INDEPENDANCE DAY How Ironic that after all this time the deadline date is set for the 4th of July.......!!
Let's give Renown and Repulse their Independance and Freedom back......Long Live the 50's !!
All the best of luck, it's nearly party time !!
Posted by Fifty Fans Forever on 29/06/2002 10:37:58
Finger's Crossed all the best for the purchase of the twins and the years of restoration afterwards . To the guy's directly involved- your energy and enthusiasm will hopefully inspire more rail buffs to raid their savings and make your project a success .
Posted by Nigel Johnson on 28/06/2002 19:26:50
You Know The Score You know the score, and I don't mean 2-1. Look at the counter above, clicking down the seconds. When it reaches zero, thats it, we need to stand up and be counted. If you're serious about saving these two fine locomotives, and I mean REALLY serious, you need to join us.
We are the only Group advertising our intention to preserve & restore BOTH the twins. The other bidders have their cheque-books out front and their gas-torches behind their back.
Go on, write us a cheque and show your desire to part-own two Class 50's.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 21/06/2002 20:30:52
Twinning the twins Though it seems that everyone is nailing a crest onto their preserved fifties, could we make the effort of Twinning Renown and Repulse to their Naval counterparts.
Renown, Repulse, Revenge and Resolution all ran their whole careers without being twinned to their Polaris Nuclear Submarine counterparts, could we put this right, even though the subs are out of service now ?
Posted by Phil Casey on 21/06/2002 00:04:42
renown repulse I do hope you can preserve the hoovers ever since seeing 50026 indomitable i have been a fan of the 50's very best of luck...
Posted by ALAN SMITH on 20/06/2002 22:28:34
A Worthy Cause Why not try to preserve '029 & '030. Too many 50's some say? I don't think so. In 10, 20, 30 years, how many 50's may fall by the wayside? Long-term, the more the better surely! Look at what has been lost in the past - now think of 'preserved' 50 043. You should be applauded. If you want to save 'yet more' class 50's, then go for it - go for both. Nevermind what anyone else thinks!!
How(e)! about this - perhaps we will one day see the 'Consecutive Triple Header' railtour, with 50 029, 50 030 and 50 031 at the head!!! The only other way would be D400, D401 and D402, so maybe someone somewhere will let '001 live?
Unfortunately my long-term unemployment leaves me rather penniless but I have all-day access to my computer. Could I help with the web site or something?
Posted by Keith Webb on 19/06/2002 21:23:07
Polls - Location The South-East is now the favoured option, with 35.1% of the vote.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 15/06/2002 19:43:00
Shares Just a reminder that shares are still available in the Group. Share purchase brings benefits as described on the Share-Purchase Form, but more importantly you will know you have played a vital role in preventing these two glorious locos from being gutted and burned. Long may they prosper.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 11/06/2002 16:20:12
Website A big thank you for all the kind words said about our website. And a big thank you to Bryan, our brilliant webmaster. Keep checking back here for new pages to be added soon.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 11/06/2002 16:12:46
SAVE THE HOOVERS NOW B4 ITS TOO LATE
Posted by STEPHEN BEECH-HOWARD on 09/06/2002 13:12:11
More Money Please! Just my usual appeal for more money! Either through existing supporters digging deeper into their pockets, or even better from new supporters joining us. We're not there yet, not by a long way, even though we have been overwhelmed by the support and love for these locos. Within a few weeks their fate will be decided, and you could make a real difference to whether they live or die.
If you want to join a group with a real mission, join us, and part-own two Class 50's.
Posted by Paul Taylor on 30/05/2002 20:14:38
Commercial over preservation I am not a businessman and I am glad. Nor do I prioritise so-called commercial thinking but I do want to be able to save trains for the future- not to make a killing.
I want to see the twins back where they belong- at the head of a train, and the thought that what happened to Eagle could easily happen to one or both of them is one that really angers me.
I am drinking to the day that the sounds of R & R will reverberate again, along with those of Dreadnought, Howe, Indomitable and Leviathan. Lets have these locos saved for posterity- not for greed or a 'quick buck'.
Posted by Ian Bell on 28/05/2002 11:58:16
"Balanced view?" I agree that commercial thinking should apply to business transactions.
But as the founder and initiator of the fleet rescue attempts I feel I can clearly say that Steve Sulley of Booth-Roe has proven beyond any of my wildest dreams that a businessman can be an honourable chap without the blind Greed that drives others.
I have the greatest love and respect for Steve and his unfailingly forgiving boss Mr Booth (owner of Rotherham Football Club) without whose help and active actions against BR pressure, have been the resolve of Indomitable 50026, Leviathan 5040, Howe 50023 and to this
Posted by robert Hurst on 25/05/2002 15:51:19
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