Vacuum Without Vacuum
50042 at Boscarne Junction with the 14.35 from Bodmin General . Suitably refreshed at the Hole In The Wall I decided on a second visit to here before returning at 15.03 to Bodmin Parkway where the train would run round at Bodmin General between 15.15 and 15.45, depositing me back on the main line at 16.02 for the 16.31 HST back to Plymouth. What could possibly go wrong ? Well once 50042 was uncoupled it was found to be unable to operate it's vacuum braking on the stock. Class 50s were known as 'Hoovers' prior to refurbishment due to the distinctive, loud sound produced by their air intake fans, which resembled the noise of a vacuum cleaner. This nickname stuck as did the alternative 'vacuums' which I always found tended to be used by those who were not big fans of the class, myself included. I didn't dislike them however I hasten to add. Anyway 50042 could not return on the train and after much deliberating and radio calls it was sent light back to General and we were informed that 47306 would be on its way in 25 minutes to rescue us. It duly arrived and we left at 15.50. Some smart working at General and 47306 was on its way at 16.12 and a quick trundle downhill to Bodmin Parkway saw us arrive at 16.20 and my 16.31 HST was 10 late. Huzzah.
Vacuum Without Vacuum
50042 at Boscarne Junction with the 14.35 from Bodmin General . Suitably refreshed at the Hole In The Wall I decided on a second visit to here before returning at 15.03 to Bodmin Parkway where the train would run round at Bodmin General between 15.15 and 15.45, depositing me back on the main line at 16.02 for the 16.31 HST back to Plymouth. What could possibly go wrong ? Well once 50042 was uncoupled it was found to be unable to operate it's vacuum braking on the stock. Class 50s were known as 'Hoovers' prior to refurbishment due to the distinctive, loud sound produced by their air intake fans, which resembled the noise of a vacuum cleaner. This nickname stuck as did the alternative 'vacuums' which I always found tended to be used by those who were not big fans of the class, myself included. I didn't dislike them however I hasten to add. Anyway 50042 could not return on the train and after much deliberating and radio calls it was sent light back to General and we were informed that 47306 would be on its way in 25 minutes to rescue us. It duly arrived and we left at 15.50. Some smart working at General and 47306 was on its way at 16.12 and a quick trundle downhill to Bodmin Parkway saw us arrive at 16.20 and my 16.31 HST was 10 late. Huzzah.