The back to back of this loco is .160" shy of what it needs to be to meet US 4-3/4" standards, back to back is usually considered our most important dimension, as that is what is needed to clear switch frogs, etc. I believe the flanges are of normal profile and thickness. We tried to roll it down our lead track to our roundhouse, but it derailed twice in a short distance. Some where I read a reference that LBSC built a loco to 4-3/4" gauge, back about 1910? (not this one however).
I agree, the boiler appears to be early construction, you can see rivets on the front tube sheet in the smoke box. Did Bassett Lowke use this method?
Yes, the boiler would need to be hydro tested before firing (I am one of the inspectors at our local club) Also, this loco only sports 1 safety, where 2 are required to meet today's standard.
Jon, thanks for your input on this project. It would be fun to get this loco operational. Please keep in touch if you learn anything further from your colleagues regarding its possible origins.
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