Britain’s preserved Class 56 diesel locomotives continue to benefit from extensive behind-the-scenes work as owners, volunteers and specialist contractors push forward with long-term restoration and maintenance programmes. This nationwide update, compiled by Pip Dunn, highlights progress across multiple heritage railways and depots.
Bury 07013
At Bury, work has progressed incrementally following wheelset attention and inspections of traction motors. Although early lifting revealed further issues requiring attention, the emphasis remains firmly on thorough investigation and reliability rather than short-term fixes. Electrical inspection and varnishing of traction motors has been carried out to improve long-term durability.
Sheffield Park D4106
At Sheffield Park, continued reliable operation over recent years has prompted preventative maintenance activity. Inspections identified bearing wear, leading to a detailed strip-down and engagement with specialist contractors to ensure future operational confidence.
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Embsay 31452
31452, owned by Eastern Rail Services and on long-term loan to the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway, has seen substantial progress. Following completion of several priority tasks ahead of Polar Express services, investigations revealed bearing wear and a transformer fan failure. The transformer has since been removed, overhauled and refitted with a new fan, with additional LED lighting installed. Once final testing is complete, the locomotive is expected to be fully serviceable.
Winter work has included brake adjustments, fluid checks, driver’s seat replacement and bodywork repairs. Electrical work, internal painting and cab refurbishment have continued, with a clear focus on returning the locomotive to reliable traffic.
Sheffield Park D6570
At Sheffield Park, work on D6570 has been carefully scheduled to allow continued availability during peak operating periods on the Bluebell line. Tasks have included cooling system attention, driver’s door repairs, cab platework and complete replacement of the driver’s door and cooler group components.
Chinnor D1501
At Chinnor, preparations are underway for the locomotive to be reunited with a set of nameplates previously carried during its British Rail career. The intention is to restore its identity in line with historical accuracy.
Lydney 50021
At Lydney, the Class 56 remains at the Dean Forest Railway following summer gala duties. Traction motor inspections and fan system improvements are ongoing, with both standard and modified CU4 units under assessment. Cooling reliability remains a key focus as the locomotive works towards a return to traffic.
Tunbridge Wells West 33063
Following extensive cleaning and testing, 33063 has returned to service on the Spa Valley Railway. Bodywork repairs have been completed where possible, with further refurbishment planned once weather conditions permit final paintwork.
Shackerstone 37906
At Shackerstone, progress continues with bodywork repairs and replacement of damaged skin panels. Although weather has limited the pace of exterior work, the long-term restoration plan remains on track.
Barrow Hill
At Barrow Hill Roundhouse, several locomotives have benefited from significant maintenance input. New vacuum hoses have been fitted, electrical faults investigated and rectified, and B22 examinations completed in line with EWS Class 56 documentation. Restoration of parking brake systems, moisture drain valves and cab fittings has also been completed.
One locomotive has returned from an extended stay at the Great Central Railway and is now entering a further maintenance phase in preparation for future operational aspirations.
Thanks to an influx of additional volunteers supporting the Class 56 Group, progress over the past year has accelerated noticeably. Internal painting, cab refurbishment and systematic mechanical work continue to improve reliability and working conditions.
The Class 56 Group has also expanded its online presence, offering membership and merchandise through its official website to help fund ongoing preservation efforts.
Extract from original article in Railways Illustrated Magazine. To subscribe please visit: https://www.classicmagazines.co.uk/railways-illustrated
