These engines are rated at 1,650 hp each. There are two per locomotive making a total horsepower of 3,300. The locomotives they took over from had either 2000hp (class 40), or 2,750 (class 47). During the testing stage of the new locomotives one was (unofficially) clocked by signalmen at 135mph The signalmen in question were in boxes EXACTLY one mile apart, making timing very easy I knew both signalmen and spent a lot of time in their boxes (again, unofficially) IIRC Deltics were usually restricted to 110mph in normal service.
The Deltic Preservation Society are doing wonderful work on these locomotives. I will be visiting Barrow Hill again in October for the syeam fest. I will take a look to see what progress has been made on these superb machines
Alan Great photo's-as a young hand fireman I worked on these engines and wished then that they all could have been stripped down. Mind'st you,in the winter we always thought there was a panal or two missing-they were cold,dirty,noisy things but boy they could motor. Best wishes Steve
Yes, they could motor all right! But from my observations, it took them a while to get into their stride when starting away from stations. But when they got the train rolling at about a fast walking pace, they really flew
Alan, I'm amazed that the three crankshaft configuration was so efficient and reliable. It has so many more primary moving parts than any other engine configuration, including the aircraft radial engines. I mean...three crankshafts and a massive combining gear train on a single 18-cylinder diesel engine....gimme a break!
And they made a wonderful sound as they accelerated away. I used to sit and watch them leave Grantham station heading south. Great to watch and hear with, usually, lots of blue exhaust smoke. Regards, Dave
David, If they left Grantham southbound after a stop they had 5 or 6 miles climbing at 1 in 200 to Stoke Summit. Great to hear and see, yes, with lots of blue smoke! Very impressive
