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The 30 'King' class 4-6-0s were the GWR's most prestigious express passenger engines. When introduced in 1927 they were the most powerful steam locomotives in Britain. The most famous was No. 6000 King George V which visited the USA for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad centenary. It was preserved on withdrawal in 1962 and after steam had finished on British Railways it 'broke the ban' when it returned to main-line operation, setting the scene for today's numerous steam specials. Three 'Kings' survive and are always a huge draw for enthusiasts whenever they appear on the main line, on heritage railways or exhibition display.
Sommario
Reviews GWR loco development, culminating in this famous class. Illustrates and describes the building of the locos at Swindon. Royal connections with the stately class, named after the kings of England. Detailed description of the components: boilers, bogies, valve gear etc. In operation on GWR and BR with timing logs. What they were like to drive and fire at the head of a crack express. Details the restoration and operation of the three surviving locomotives. Comes right up to date with the return to steam of King Edward II in 2011 - once described as 'mission impossible'. Appendices detail building and withdrawal dates of all examples. Fully illustrated with drawings and photographs, many in colour and never published before.
Info autore
Kevin McCormack is a highly regarded author with 29 transport books to his credit, but this is his first for Haynes. He has been a working member of the Great Western Society at the Didcot Railway Centre from its earliest days.
