Main Line ThurnbySteam on 64mm gauge trackThe two pictures shown in this section are Gauge 3 coal fired engines. Gauge 3 engines are basically 2 1/2" gauge (track width) and built to scales between 1/2" and 17/32nds. (1.22.5). The smaller of these two scales were predominately used by the earlier spirit fired manufactures such as Bing of Germany and Carson in the UK, but increased to the larger scale in the 1960's for coal firing convenience. Bassett-Lowke manufactured in both scales (and many more) although never 'mass produced' in modern terms. Their LNER Flying Scotsman however was made in kit form in reasonable numbers, and can still be seen running at G3 garden meets.
The picture above shows a coal fired Grange which is based on LBSC drawings. This engine runs regularly at Thurnby and at other G3 venues in the UK. As with the 'Jubilee' in the lower picture, both are typical of the three cylinder coal fired steamers in the Society. Features include pressure and water gauges, together with an axle pump on the drivers, super heater, mechanical lubricators, blowers and blow down. In the case of the 'Jubilee' this incorporates cylinder drain cocks which prevent a good proportion of condensate from blasting out of the chimney when the cylinders are cold!
The G3 Society have a preference for scenic garden railways which differs from the National 2 1/2 Society who prefer to drive their engines sitting behind on a trailer on a raised track. Any one interested in G3 can contact me through my email link on this site. |
