March 2015
Cyril Fifield has recently completed another fine 7 ½” gauge locomotive. Lucy took 3 years to build and has real character. She will be a great addition to the CSMEE track.
Lucy is based on the Sweet William design but Cyril has done his own design work to create a small industrial style locomotive. Cyril said that he wanted a locomotive typical of what you might have seen around freezing works etc. He has certainly achieved his objective. Although not part of the original design, Cyril has added a tender to give longer duration between coal and water stops. Also provides the driver a comfortable seat.
Lucy has a full locomotive type boiler with superheaters. The boiler is of steel construction. Operating pressure is 100psi. Wheels are all turned from steel. There are two oil pumps, two axle driven water pumps, injector and the requisite hand pump.
As Cyril was working to his own design he made a mock-up of the side tanks and cab in customwood. He expected to have to change it around a bit to get it just right but was so happy with the first attempt no changes were required. The permanent cab is built in stainless steel and powder coated.
Cyril has been running Lucy at home but has had a frustrating wait for the fire ban to be lifted before trying her on the CSMEE track. The wait will be worth it!
