Volume Alert

A spectacular race with 60009 Union of South Africa on the North Wales Coast line, Llandudno Jct to Colwyn Bay in Aug08. Note the chime whistle and glimpses of the fire in the cab.

The Gresley A4 Pacifics designs were probably the most famous of the LNER locomotives. And of
these Pacifics, the A4 is probably the most famous of all. Its distinctive streamlined casing has
come to be a symbol of 1930s luxury and fascination with speed. Even today it's an A4 which holds
the world speed record for a steam locomotive.

The streamlining had an effect of an extra 41 HP at 60MPH but was to
become a burden for the maintenance fitters. Most of the class was rebuilt
without the steamlined casing but some were preserved as was this famous
engine The Union of South Africa. Up close they are truly a sight to
behold!

Thirty-five of these locomotives were built for the LNER at Doncaster Works between 1935-38

60019 was bought privately and continued to be used on main line
excursions for the last few years. Six of the A4 class locos were
preserved, although 2 of these are static museum exibits in North
America.

some of the details are;

weight, c115 tons with tender
6'8" drivers
250psi boiler
3cyl 18.5 x 26"
35.000lbf Tractive effort

water c4,750gls
coal c6tons

Running Speed 90-100MPH.

with credit to; sarah and will