Update 24th September 2024.
In the week following the ELR gala the technical team started working through the loco systems methodically to resolve the low power issues witnessed during the Autumn Gala, eliminating possible causes and moving onto the next possible cause.
As usual no pressure – but the ELR had already requested and announced 56006 be used on the 3 booked diesel turns (with 40145) the day after the CFPS members day on the 29th September. Even at low power it was felt the loco is a big draw and could boost attendance on the Saturday.
As a result of the post gala investigation the Engine Speed Valve (ESV2) was checked and the solenoid coil found to be breaking down when the 110v supply was applied. The coil was failing unpredictably and sometimes it checked out ok and a few minutes later it was in a fail condition. As a result the valve was not reliably sending sufficient air pressure to the engine Governor to make the engine reach full power. This is what we saw at the gala when the loco would develop full power on a few occasions, but the rest of the time it reverted to half power as the valve wasn’t being opened by the failing electric coil.
As it happened one of the technical team had a spare in his van and was going to attend Baron Street on the Friday 27th to fit it. Hopefully 56006 will perform at full power and start its long awaited period of decent reliability.
Following the CFPS members day on the 28th , 56006 should partner 40145 for the diesel turn in the Sunday 29th September. Subject to availability.