The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust has announced that there have been some issues with the small tubes found in Tornado's boiler.
When the boiler returned to the UK after being overhauled by DB Meiningen in Germany, British Engineering Services inspected the boiler and found that there was a concern surrounding the quality and installation of the small tubes.
Currently, it cannot be confirmed whether this is a material or welding issue, so it has been agreed that the best course of action will be to replace all small tubes in the boiler.
The Trust is now working hard to bring Tornado back to service, with the main focus being on Tornado's planned visit to the North Norfolk Railway, ETCS testing and hauling the first Aberdonian on the 20th of July.
The re-tubing is covered under warranty, however, Tornado will now be away from the main line much longer than anticipated. If you would like to donate to the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, you can do so via their website.
Tornado's return was delayed in January due to a number of factors including the late arrival of the boiler back in the UK and the fitment of the in-cab signalling.
To me, it sounds like the people in Germany have not been up to their usual high standard. Hopefully Tornado will be back on the mainline sometime this year.
Better to find and solve the issue now instead of leaving it until it’s too late.