D3174 Class 08. Not In Service.
The class 08 locomotive D3174 has accumulated
over 1000 operational hours over the last 24 months even though it was
in desperate need of an overhaul. It has been used on all types of duties
and has even been used for the Pullman dining train. This is truly a
testament to British Engineering that the loco has given 100% availability.
The loco has now been withdrawn from service for a well-deserved heavy
overhaul. Initial work will involve the diesel engine being removed
to enable the repair of the cracked engine mountings. The aim is to
restore to pristine condition acknowledging it is the star “Devious”
at “Friends of Thomas” events.
As part of the major overhaul, the engine was lifted out using the 36
ton steam crane. A lot of other engine associated hardware has been
removed giving access for the completion of engine compartment steam
cleaning.
The major overhaul is ongoing.
