Achilles Report No44: Final Call of 2013...

Hi guys. Today, with not a lot else in prospect, I thought it would be best to check over and clean "Achilles" prior to an upcoming run. The original intention was to run tomorrow but, to be honest, it is looking a little too rough so the engine will, likely as not, remain indoors. I can already hear the "he won't take 'Achilles' out in the rain" jibes as I write it! This is not the case, normally I would go for it but it is looking particularly bad, even for a day out on a full size loco. Anyway, back to today, I cleaned the tubes out (which were remarkably clean after a strong assault on the GEC track a month or two back) and emptied the smokebox. The spark arrestor equipment was then refitted and checked thoroughly. The blue tank engine was then cleaned, both on the paintwork and on the brass. The engine is still carrying her LMS-style lamps which will be repainted over the winter no doubt, as their white paint really shows the grime. If the engine doesn't run tomorrow then she will appear without fail at the RPMR Members Running Day on Saturday. Following that its winter maintenance season: one that I am looking forward to...whilst also not at the same time! "Achilles" has had a good year in 2013 and has put in some very good performances. Who knows what 2014 will bring? We'll just have to see. Happy New Year all, from Sam...