Depot Report 30/4/25

Pete Stojanovic writes,

After several months of working through the issues with PU 417, fitted in No.2 end of Tulyar, the power unit was successfully started up and ran smoothly.

Overhauled fuel pumps (18 in total) and injectors along with resealing the fuel filters and replacing a couple of fuel pipes finally did the trick.

Tulyar enjoyed basking in the sunshine outside the depot with both engines running while the engineering team checked everything over:

The loco was then tested to see that it would take power on No.2 engine, and arrangements made to test the power unit on the Springwell branch.

The last time PU417 powered a loco move was back around 20 years ago and it performed admirably.

Two return trips were made, before going back to the depot. A few minor issues were noted, generally small oil leaks which will need rectification. Nothing that wouldn’t be expected after a first shakedown move.

A very big tick on the remaining “TO DO” list completed.

Meanwhile 55009 had its main line certificate renewed, however it will not be operating on the mainline until power unit 430 is ready, exchanged for the faulty PU451, and the locomotive has completed a series of tests including load banking.

It will however operate on heritage railways for the time being on one engine.

Painting of Alycidon has continued which should be nearing completion over the coming weeks, before going to the NYMR & KWVR Diesel Galas in June.

By chance, Nigel Harris and Richard Bowker from the podcast Green Signals had arranged a visit to Barrow Hill on the same day, and took the opportunity to do some filming around D9015 and chat with some of the volunteers.

More valuable, and free, publicity for the DPS and our locomotives.

PU417 clears its throat for the first time in around 20 years

Ready to depart along the BH branch

PU417 start

Followed by PU538