5 inch gauge LNER B1

A well-built LNER B1 4-6-0 to Martin Evans' popular "Springbok" design, turned out as No.61020 "Gemsbok" and finished in lined BR black livery.

This one has recently arrived with us as part of a large collection of steam and battery locomotives from a long-time customer in the North East, along with his workshop machinery.

The boiler had had hydraulic and steam tests, with new certification issued - injectors were particularly noteworthy, working beautifully, with water valves neatly hidden beneath the tender pickup dome.

On test the engine steamed freely and ran well, notching up close to mid gear in forwards - there's some video of it on our YouTube channel here. There is some wear apparent in connecting and coupling rod bushes, not something that requires attention at this time, slightly more noticeable in reverse than forwards.

Overall a well-sorted engine that goes very nicely - we like this one.