• TSLL directors visit Leaky Finders Ltd to agree boiler overhaul contract • 76077’s boiler to go to Devon at the end of 2024 for year-long overhaul
Four directors of Toddington Standard Locomotive Limited (TSLL) visited the Devonshire works of engineers and boilersmiths Leaky Finders Limited in September, to formally confirm the contract to overhaul the boiler of Standard class 4 2-6-0 no. 76077.
This follows the successful competitive tender by Leaky Finders Ltd for the boiler overhaul.
The boiler is currently at Toddington on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR), where volunteers are trial-fitting crinolines, cladding and other fixtures. This will mean that, when the boiler is returned, it can be equipped with the necessary fittings in the knowledge that they should fit first-time. This will save time while the locomotive is being prepared to enter service.
Andrew Meredith, engineering director of TSLL who was joined by colleagues Chris Irving, Steve Everett and Ian Crowder, says: “Our visit gave us considerable confidence that Leaky Finders will complete the boiler overhaul to the highest standards and within our planned timescale.
“The boiler will be sent to their well-equipped workshops in Devon towards the end of the year with a planned return in late 2025. Provided that happens and there are no unforeseen snags in the overhaul; and that we continue to receive the generous support of our supporters, our aspiration to see 76077 in steam for her 70th birthday in December 2026 is achievable.”
Rory Edwards, director of Leaky Finders adds: “It was a pleasure to meet the team from TSLL. I and my team are looking forward to getting started on the work.
“I examined the boiler for myself before offering to undertake its overhaul and I was impressed with the generally good condition of it. But I fully endorse TSLL’s decision to specify a new parallel front section of the barrel and a new front tubeplate: this will lend longevity to the boiler and I would expect it to give many years of trouble-free service.”
Meanwhile, the chassis continues to progress at Locomotive Maintenance Services (LMS) using a combination of LMS professional skills and volunteers.
When the locomotive enters service, it will do so with a hired-in tender as when previous owner Chris Hinton purchased the engine, it was tenderless. However, TSLL has acquired wheelsets, bearings and other components in anticipation of building their own tender once the locomotive has joined the GWSR’s operational fleet.
To date, almost half of the required £150,000 needed to complete the boiler overhaul and fit it to the locomotive’s frames has been raised, including sponsorship of boiler components such as stays, tubes and other fittings. Contributors become shareholders, receiving both a share certificate and a certificate confirming the sponsored component(s). More information can be found on the 76077 website or by contacting info@standard76077.com
