I cant understand why HVTR have not released the problems with G123. It is no secret that its sister engine G233 located at SWRHC Boyanup requires works such as Replacement of a nest of i think 5 or 7 boiler stays have failed in the RH upper corner of the fire box, Smoke box needs patching, New fire bars, Brick arch etc and most probably other works as restoration continues. so what's the problems with 123. After all we/us rail enthusiasts are interested in the well being of our states rail heritage were ever it is located and like to keep up with whats happening with its operational capacity
Sorry but it never occurred to us that we had anything to "release".
There are no "problems" as such with G123 however it is a little 'aged' and is a bit 'loose' here & there, particularly in its axle boxs, but nothing that will stop it returning to some light service around Isandra and down to Alumina Jcn in due course as a bit of a 'play thing' for training and those interested in having some driver experience action.
A few small jobs have been carried out and there was a failed rolling ring on the engine vac cylinder which was renewed maybe 2 or more years ago sometime following the loco's return to Pinjarra. The ashpan has received a fair bit or repair attention. The boiler is in good condition really and has been maintained in 'survey' with annual inspections etc, even though it has not been steamed for some time now. There is one outstanding job to be done which is renewing its fire bars and we have been looking at some alternate, more user friendly designs.
G123 has not been any kind of priority simply due to not being required at Dwellingup since the Steam Ranger commenced departing from there. The human & financial resourses required for G123 need to come from what is spare.
I feel certain it will be operating next year.
Regards,
Ian Willis
HVR