5 inch gauge LNER L1 2-6-4T

A 5 inch gauge LNER L1 2-6-4T, an older engine built to the Clarkson design.

This one came to us last year having just had a club test, with new certification issued. The steam test was supported by an existing hydraulic test, expiring in June of 2027 - curiously the hydraulic expiry date was then recorded as June 2028 on the new certificate, with the steam test expiring in September 2026.

Either way, it's largely academic - in the three weeks between the club testing it and it being tested at our works, the boiler had acquired a variety of leaks, including:

• two leaks in the inner firebox, one between inner backhead and crown, the other down the left hand side
• one leaking firebox stay which would likely take up under steam
• one leak from an unknown location between barrel and throatplate; there is a buildup of scale in the area suggesting it has been leaking for some time. It will need cladding removing and the boiler lifting to investigate further
• one tube leaking at junction with tubeplate

The chassis runs on air although is tired, with rear axle boxes having significant wear in the bores. Motionwork and valve gear will need some rebushing, the pistons are likely to need new rings or packing - when running on air most of it goes up the chimney, although with little air passing if the regulator is opened in mid gear.

A large, handsome design, it would be a worthwhile restoration project for a an experienced model engineer.