Friday 12 February 2021

Lochgorm Tank 0-6-0T No.16/49 New Project


HR 16 Fort-George c.1899 at Gollanfield. (Am Baille, HRSoc collection)


I started work on this project, my third of the Lochgorm Tank class, at the beginning of January, the engine is being built without the aid of a kit, though using a good many brass castings, mostly sourced from Laurie Griffin's extensive lists. Only a single photo exists of No.16 in Highland Railway days and this is shown above. The engine carries the name Fort-George and is resplendent in Drummond I livery, the Jones chimney suits her lines and at this time there was no rear bunker fitted. 

In 2/1901 No.16 lost its number, which went to newly built Ben Avon, and became No 49A, the number being taken from a Barclay 14 class 2-4-0. This engine was recorded as "withdrawn " 9/1901 though it was said to be "idle" 7/1899 so it is probable that the actual number plate was taken from it for use by the Lochgorm Tank and presumably surmounted by a painted letter A. 

There are a few photos of No.49 in later LMS days and these show her with a rear bunker which was probably added about 1910. They also show the engine with a different chimney with a flared top, though when this change was made is open to question.

My model will represent No.49 in the plain post-1902 Drummond II dark green livery, without a name, which was removed when the engine ceased regular work on the Fort-George branch. 


Jones chimney in place, a quality brass casting from LGM.


Brake cylinders and cab steps are attached to horizontal extensions of the side frames. The footplate fastens to the chassis by means of a tongue which goes into a slot on the rear of the buffer beam. Note the etched brass wheel overlays which simulate the "solid" wheels of the Lochgorm Tanks, these are my own design. I have some left overs if you need them. 

No comments:

Post a Comment