Soneone asked me today if I had heard about any 3rd rail supply problems on the Lymington branch. I think this has been discussed before but have not heard of any with the 450s at weekends/BHs. Anyone got any definitive info please?
When the Desiros were new there were rumours that they couldn't be used on the branch due to power issues, but don't think this was ever the real reason. Then when the branch was closed for a few months (was it in 2006 or earlier?) for flood alleviation works and track reconstruction there were also unfounded rumours the third rail would be removed.
An early issue was that 450s couldn't reliably meet the turn round times, because it took too long to change ends and start up the other cab. Clearly this is no longer a problem. Then SWT decided that using the two CIGs allowed them to use the intended 450 for strengthening services elsewhere.
These two are the grounds given in the exemption application to use the CIGs which would have otherwise been up for withdrawal with the rest of the Mark 1 EMUs.
Another issue along the way was that the stock was too long for Lymington Town's platform, and/or the stepping distance was excessive. This too has been fixed by altering the platform.
However there was a requirement to upgrade the power supply throughout the Southern region for both Desiros and Electrostars, perhaps this led someone to put two and two together?
Whatever the real story, 450s had been operating on the branch on occasions for the last 5 years or so that I'm aware of, either when both CIGs were u/s, or when they were marooned in Bournemouth because of engineering works.
