New frames for WSRA Prairie

摘要

THE West Somerset Railway Association has confirmed that overhaul of its Prairie No. 4561 will involve manufacture of new frames. The likelihood of this radical step was first unveiled by The RM, November 2010. However, before undertaking what is believed to be an unprecedented step in standard gauge preservation - frame replacement as part of an overhaul, the WSRA'sWilliton Restorations business wanted a detailed examination of the stripped loco inside the exSwindon shed at Williton. That investigation, covering exactly what will be required to return the loco to steam, has confirmed the original view. The frames of the Prairie are badly distorted and cracked and the most realistic option is replacement.