The National Railway Museum has confirmed that the visit of Flying Scotsman to the Bluebell Railway this August has been postponed.
The LNER A3 was due to visit this August between 17th August and 5th September.
However, during the overhaul, Riley & Son (E) Ltd has found that the piston rings have failed inside the cylinder and need replacement.
This has meant that the overhaul has been delayed by four to six weeks.
The NRM says that they are confident that the overhaul will be complete in time for the locomotive's centenary celebrations and a visit to the Bluebell Railway will take place in 2023.
A spokesperson for the National Railway Museum said “We can confirm that Flying Scotsman's scheduled appearance at Bluebell Railway between 17 August and 5 September has been postponed. During the overhaul, it was discovered that Flying Scotsman's piston rings had failed inside the cylinder and were in need of replacement. This unforeseen additional work means that new components have to be manufactured, delivered and fitted – delaying the overhaul by approximately 4-6 weeks.
“We apologise for the inconvenience to those affected and will work with Riley & Son (E) to rearrange the visit next year (2023). The overhaul will continue, and we are confident that Flying Scotsman will be ready for the start of the centenary celebrations.”
A Bluebell Railway spokesperson said “It is with the greatest regret we have to announce the postponement of Flying Scotsman's visit to the Bluebell Railway in August.
The locomotive's custodians have informed us they discovered a broken piston ring which had damaged the locomotive's cylinder.
Despite the best efforts of Riley & Son (E) and the team at the Bluebell Railway, the ring cannot be replaced in time for the scheduled visit next month – this is in part due to global supply chain delays.”
It is disappointing that the Scotsman cannot visit until next year, but look forward to that and I am certain that a replacement will be found – how about something GWR? One of the Halls or Manors or a Grange? Please!
How come spare piston rings were not to hand??? Big over ste! It’s well known that piston rings are a regular thing that comes up in maintenance!! As an engine we could hear each cylinder working and a dubious cylinder made its self known by the sound and performance falling away. Yes spare piston rings are a must. Ok hindsite and all that but steam locomotives been around a long time