4709 - Churchward’s giant 2-8-0 is poised to gather significant momentum in the coming weeks, providing we can recruit a number of additional volunteers.
“Here’s an opportunity to contribute to a unique preservation project. Because of COVID and the manifold challenges in ingathering resources, 4709’s birthing process has taken way longer than we anticipated. We’re through the worst of that and now need to recruit additional skilled hands and minds to get 4709 done.”
That’s the word from 4709’s Chief Mechanical Engineer, Paul Carpenter.
The locomotive boasts two brand new, fully machined cylinders, a renovated and re-engineered pony truck and counterweight and a new braking system. “All of these critical front end elements are waiting to be mounted on the chassis, after which we will be able to wheel 4709 and move onto the next phase of the programme.”
Paul admits that despite the group’s best efforts, progress has been slow; “Until now, 4709 has been run by a tiny group of dedicated people. Despite that, we’ve persevered and to achieved a huge amount in recent months. The proof? The twin castings for the cylinders, plus any number of other components, including the renovated pony truck. Plans for the next major step - the smokebox are just about to get underway.”
With several high profile overhaul and new build projects nearing completion, Paul is hoping to attract volunteers from other preservation locos. “Those are critically important people with skills that are hard to find in this day and age. We’re hoping that by encouraging them to now join 4709, they can become part of a unique project and make a significant preservation contribution at the same time.”
Recent updates and 4709 project news is here: https://www.4709.org.uk/4709blog
To volunteer, or request additional information, please use this form: https://www.4709.org.uk/contact
