Motor Rail on temporary track panel (note that the rear coupling assembly has been removed – but we do have it)

The three cylinder Deutz diesel engine on the Trust’s (loaned) Motor Rail locomotive No. 5 was tried today – and it fired!   We didn’t run it, as the controls are seized, and there wouldn’t have been an easy way to stop it.   Also, the exhaust outlet pipe is missing.   Still – a very good omen.   Now, confident that the basics (fuel supply, filters, injectors, compression) are likely to be OK, we can proceed with the restoration, with confidence.
The pictures show the loco on its temporary track panel, and a view of the engine compartment.   It was designed for a mining environment, so the engine will be pretty tough and rugged under the superficial rust visible here.

Engine compartment
First Step towards Restoration