Historically, the Northern Counties Committee of the LMS in Northern Ireland operated the main lines from Belfast to Portrush, Derry, and Larne, together with branch lines and narrow gauge lines. In 1932, the main line from Belfast to Derry was re-routed at Bleach Green to avoid an awkward reversal at Greenisland. The new line involved a gradient of 1 in 75. Because of this and to speed up services, the NCC introduced larger locomotives – these were 2-6-0 engines or “Moguls” with 6ft driving wheels.

There were 15 of the Moguls, built between 1933 and 1942. They worked as the principal passenger services until diesel traction took over in the 1950s and 60s.

W.H.Tildesley was approached and asked to get involved in a new project to reinstate one of these engines, based on the overhaul of remaining parts and the provision of missing items.

The Newly Produced Forged & Machined Connecting Rod Supplied By W.H.Tildesley Ltd

Project progress to date has been to overhaul existing items like wheelsets, and to source missing items many of which are steel castings or forgings. Most of the working parts exist, but a notable omission was one of the two large connecting rods.

The new connecting rod was supplied by W.H.Tildesley.

If you require the new production of forged components for your locomotive restoration project please contact our team who will gladly assist you.