Yes and not a bad motor it is though I expected it to be better exterior wise, Question is how long is it on lOan for as how long is it before there own 117 is back in use.
Could I firstly say that I am not about to get all "huffy" - I don't want this post to sound like that at all so I thought I'd just put this in to begin with!
You are quite right, the external condition of the DMU is poor, as the unit has been living outside in all weathers for a considerable amount of time. The PVR has not used the DMU under its own power for some considerable time; when it has been used recently it has been as "coaching stock" propelled by 'Albert', the PVR's resident 0-4-0 tank engine.
The PVR finished restoration of its three Mk2 coaches in the closing months of 2010 and since then has used them exclusively for all passenger operations, at the same time 50017 Royal Oak was (and still is) "in shed" receiving a thorough overhaul. This meant that there was nothing for the DMU to do except sit in a siding and await its turn for overhaul. (Which incidentally would not have started yet as 'Byfield', the PVR's other tank engine is provisionally next up for 'shed time'.)
As you can see, the PVR did not envisage that the DMU would see any use whatsoever, and therefore did not deem it urgent that any work should be carried out. However, due to the GWRs quite frankly dire situation, it was agreed that the unit should be sent up to help out.
Although it is not really my place to say, I am aware that there were mumblings of discontent with regards to the decision - some thought that sending the unit off in the state it was in was not a good advert for the PVR.. Perhaps it isn't a good advert, but we were simply doing the GWR a favour and helping them out at this difficult time. They could have done some work on the unit to start with if they'd wanted to, but obviously it wouldn't be earning any money if it'd gone straight into Toddington shed!!
To answer your other question - the DMU is expected to be away for approximately two years,
as far as I am aware. (Don't quote me on that!) In this time the unit will obviously help out on services, and also receive a full overhaul, restoration and repaint into a livery of the PVR's choosing.
So there you go, I think that rounds up everything! If you've got any more questions please add them to the thread and I'll do my best to answer them!
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Just realised how long that post was - congratulations if you read through all of it! Award yourself a Gold Star!
