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9655 - Bluey

Earlier this year Motor Rail No. 9655 of 1951 'Bluey' undertook its first moves under its own power at the OKLR. The locomotive had previously been based at the OKLR between 1985-1986 but never ran under its own power the first time it was at the railway.

When 9655 arrived in November 2022 it had no wheels under it. Work since the locomotive arrived has involved sourcing new wheels and axles, an overhaul of the springs, axle boxes, brakes, and work on the gearbox.

In May 2024 the locomotive was finally in a state where it could be tested under its own power for the first time since arrival. It undertook a short test run from the sheds to Reeds Road and back. During this test run a number of issues were discovered with the engine, so it was back to the works to address the issues. As the engine has been disassembled more problems than initially expected have been discovered. 9655 is now in the workshops undergoing a substantial engine rebuild.

Work over the last few months has involved disassembly of the engine and trying to source replacement parts. Whilst the engine is being rebuilt the chassis is being repainted into the blue livery it carried in industry at Henry Oakland & Son's Escrick Tile Works.