7202 - 72xx Class

In the years of the depression, coal traffic in South Wales decreased, and the need for short-journey heavy tank locomotives of the 42xx class diminished. At the same time old goods engines of the 2600 'Aberdare' class were becoming worn out. Collett therefore adapted some of the 42xx engines, which were very strong, to give longer range. This was done by extending the length of the frames at the rear by over 4ft, by enlarging the coal bunker and adding a pair of trailing wheels. Altogether 54 engines were thus dealt with.

7202, the third engine so altered, was adapted from 42xx No. 5277, built in 1926. 7202 entered service in September 1934. She was sent to Ebbw Junction in South Wales, ending her working life at Barry BR depot, from where she was shunted into Woodham Bros. yard for cutting up.

The locomotive was purchased by the Great Western Society on 1st January 1973 from Woodhams of Barry and brought to Didcot in April 1974, where she is gradually being returned to working order.

Status

Under Restoration

Build date

1934

Built at

Swindon

Wheel arrangement

2-8-2T

Route availability

Red

Barrel diameter

5 feet 6 inches

Barrel length

11 feet

Boiler pressure

200 lbs/sq in

Boiler type

Standard No. 4

Coal capacity

6 Tons

Cylinders

(2) 19 x 30 inches

Heating surfaces, firebox

128.72 sq ft

Firegrate

20.56 sq ft

Power class

E

Superheater area

191.79 sq ft

Tractive effort

33,170 pounds

Heating surfaces, tubes

1349.64 sq ft

Water capacity

2,500 gallons

Weight

92 tons 12cwt.

Wheel diameter

4 feet 7.5 inches

« Back To Steam Locomotives