August 23, 2012

"The Last Atlantic in High Wycombe"


Well, Wednesday evening came, and Harry Fielding and Graham Muz of Fisherton Sarum fame, were very kind in letting me come up to the club to use the club's test track after work. I had a very warm welcome from the club members, and enjoyed in particular talking to Graham and Harry about Hinton Parva, which is a fantastic layout to watch. They are terrific people and I will be going back for sure, during the time I have left on my work contract.

The main reason for coming up to the club was to test 62822. I was supremely nervous: it would be the first time that my Atlantic has turned a wheel in anger since I dismantled it in its enteriety, changed its motor and gearbox and rebuilt it to the standard seen above.


I am delighted to report that, apart from a bit of authentic "wiggling", it behaved itself impeccably, even getting into a race with another member's newly purchased Class 92 in Stobart Rail livery. 62822 won!

She ran very smoothly and really looked the part. I was quite surprised - it's the first model I can remember for years that has actually worked first time!

There's still a lot of things to add - lamp irons, whistle, tender steps, new oil lamps, a decent coat of weathering and the mixed traffic lining, but for a first time out she behaved herself impeccably.

More of the same please, 62822!

Until next time.

1 comment:

Jack T said...

Now that is a smart looking model, glad to hear it's proving to be a decent runner.