5 inch gauge LNER J39 0-6-0

There's got to be something in the water around Chingford promoting the creation of super locomotives in the environs of that fine borough.

Back in 2006 we had what was - and remains - possibly the best-known J39 ever built, Percy Woods' locomotive which gained him an unprecedented third successive victory at IMLEC. It was a beautifully built engine with performance to match, flattering any drivers' ability.

This engine has come from a member of the same club, part of a small collection of finely built locomotives, including the LNER B1 "Klipspringer". Acquired by the late owner as a part-built chassis, Shawe Steam Services were commissioned to complete the build, the work done to a high standard throughout.

The boiler has had hydraulic and steam tests with new certification issued. We've rebushed the motionwork to take up minor wear but otherwise the locomotive was in good condition, well-maintained and needing little work to recommission.

On test it proved free-steaming and ran exceptionally well; both injectors worked faultlessly, the double-acting hand pump mounted in the tender - there as a backup if required - remaining unused.

It would be difficult to improve on the workshop notes recorded for this one, which read as follows:

"As far as running goes.... Wow..... it is superb, the exhaust beats are beautifully even and crisp in forwards notching back until near enough mid gear and still sounding fantastic... The engine runs without the need for the blower on the rolling road and uses little water and coal. A fine bit of kit... I would happily run it all day long on the track without any concerns"

A well-sorted engine of handsome proportion and engaging performance - it appears to have made something of an impression!

Offered with 12 months warranty and a starter kit of coal and steam oil. If required we would be more than happy to include half a day's training at our works on the firing, driving and disposal of the engine for a new owner.