05 November 2009
The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch miniature railway first opened to the public in 1927 as the ‘World’s Smallest Public Railway’. Covering a distance of 13.5 miles from the Cinque Port of Hythe to the lighthouse at Dungeness in Kent, today the railway continues to provide up to 15 services a day throughout the year.
Transporting 160,000 passengers a year, the railway is famed for its fleet of one-third full size steam and diesel locomotives dating from 1925.
As part of the on going work that is required to maintain the eighty-year old locomotives in prime working condition, J D Hotchkiss was commissioned to turn new driving wheels using its specialist CNC milling machines.
Martin Blackwell, Overhaul Engineer at RH&DR said, ‘It is crucial that each engine is completely overhauled every 15 years. Passenger safety is vital and therefore we need to ensure we use contractors we can rely on.’
The latest locomotive to be restored is the Number 10, Dr. Syn, a Canadian Pacific style engine built in 1931 by The Yorkshire Engine Company.
Martin continues, ‘Dr. Syn’s overhaul required new axles and driving tyre profiles. Unfortunately our machinery simply wasn’t man enough to undertake the job.’
RH&DR supplied the co-ordinate path and using its 5 Metre long CNC milling machines JD Hotchkiss’ engineers were able to turn 3 axles providing 6 wheels for the locomotive.
Martin added, ‘I’ve been very impressed with the craftsmanship and efficiency of JD Hotchkiss. Their technical expertise came highly recommended and I shall certainly be using their services for further bespoke projects in the future.’