SRFB 700 Class 2-4-2T | 700 'Phoenix'
- Silver Rail Freight Board -
700 Class 2-4-2T
Many locomotive designs were proposed to the SRFB for its standardisation project during the interwar years. One such design was the 700, a 2-4-2 intended to handle the dwindling passenger services and fast container trains. However, numerous problems arose simply from being designed by teams that had previously provided the GSIR with passenger locomotives. The 700's structure was quite Victorian, in that it had outside frames, a larger dome and a lower running board. The cab layout also mirrored this since although it was fairly spacious, the controls were positioned awkwardly and the narrow space behind the firebox would have hindered the fireman. Concerning the firebox, it was simply too small and would not have been sufficient to create enough steam for the longer container trips. As a result, the 700 was outdated before any were even constructed. The SRFB swiftly rejected the proposal and none were ever built.
In 2001, volunteers for the SRFB unearthed blueprints for the 700 which were sent to the Sawyer Locomotive Preservation Group. Over the course of 9 years, the organisation was able to construct a 700 which was completed and announced to the public in 2010. This build represents the lone 700, 'Phoenix', painted in 'works grey' to commemorate her eventual construction 89 years after the proposal.
Instructions:
- OPEN Dampers
- Light Firebox
- Air Compressor ON
- Wait for boiler pressure to build
- This locomotive is fitted with air brakes and TDWS.
- The train brake has apply, hold and release functions. Brakes are fully released at ~14.5psi / 1bar.
- The button for the LIVE injector is located under the fake valve below the train brake handle.
- Firebox temp of around 200*C should be fine for running.
- Functions to release wheels and deactivate connecting rods are located near the left leading wheel.
- The button for cylinder valves is located under the driver's seat.
TDWS is used as a warning system to stop the locomotive if not acknowledged after a few seconds. It will sound and light up on the driver's instrument panel after about 2 minutes and reset once acknowledged.
Brakes:
- DECREASE FULLY to RELEASE brakes
- POSITION IN MIDDLE to HOLD brakes
- INCREASE FULLY to APPLY brakes
Any feedback is welcome!
