3 1/2 inch gauge New York Central 4-6-4 "Hudson"

A 3 1/2 inch gauge NYC J-1 "Hudson" 4-6-4.

Commissioned in the 1920s to replace the struggling K-class Pacifics, inspiration was taken from the "Berkshire" 2-8-2 freight locomotives to produce a more powerful locomotive able to cope with increasingly popular passenger services.

An older engine, fit and finish of machined parts is good, the chassis runs on air nicely in both directions. Over 5ft long when coupled together, it's an imposing presence.

The boiler proved structurally sound on a twice working pressure hydraulic test at 160psi with no signs of leaks or deflection, with one minute bead of water forming on a firebox stay - we would warranty as sound.

With a new pressure gauge fitted, we lit a fire and found the engine free-steaming - there's some video of it on our YouTube channel below.

A couple of recommissioning jobs to do before a steam test can be issued - the RHS injector works well, the LHS not at all. The left hand safety valve lifts at 80psi without accumulation; the right hand one lifts early at 60psi, with no obvious way to adjust it.