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68XX 'Grange' update 20 December 2016

The pre-production sample has been assessed in detail by our panel of technical experts. As with the 47XX, a long and detailed report showing all the required production changes has been prepared and sent to the builders. Last week we sent the sample back to the builders for modification in accordance with those changes. Surprisingly we discovered there were many more changes than we expected including some items discovered as a result of the work proceeding on the 81st Locomotive, 6880 Betton Grange.

Unlike the other GWR locomotives in our current programme there were relatively few life-time modifications on the ‘Granges’, but a key area where we made a mistake was chimneys where there is an additional complexity of three types, the ‘Grange’, the ‘Hall’ and the improved draught (ID) types. We have decided not to produce the narrow chimney fitted initially to 6800 that was rapidly replaced by the first ‘Grange’ type chimney. We will be contacting customers to confirm which of the three chimney types they require. We will also alter the website choice on this matter.

Customers will still be able to have the choice of the four tender types: Churchward 3500 gallon, Collett 3500 gallon, Collet 4000 gallon, or Hawksworth 4000 gallon tenders.  Yes it seems strange, but true, that up to four ‘Granges’ at some time or other ran with the Hawksworth 4000 gallon tender. If you have access to a copy of the Book of the Ganges (Ian Sixsmith - Irwell Press), there is a lovely picture of 6844 Penhydd Grange with a 4000 gallon Hawksworth tender pulling a passenger train. Our tender availability gives you a wide choice of tender for this locomotive. This variety adds considerable interest to this locomotive and the ‘Grange’ is perhaps the best candidate locomotive for customers to consider buying two tenders. 

In terms of production we are exploring the best way to move forward. Current thoughts are being focused on possible simultaneous production with the 47XX. This would mean delivery mid-2017.

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