PROJECT UPDATE - SUMMER 2026
Work continues to gather momentum, with several important milestones recently achieved.
Full-size 3D-printed cambox completed
A full-size 3D-printed cambox has now been assembled, providing the engineering team with the first complete physical representation of the design.
Produced from drawings by Engineering Director David Elliott, refined by P2 Design Engineer Alan Parkin and incorporating key components manufactured by volunteer Peter Scott, the prototype has enabled the complete mechanism to be assembled and assessed.
The exercise has:
- confirmed assembly arrangements and clearances
- validated the overall design concept
- identified two minor design improvements already incorporated into the production drawings
- demonstrated the value of rapid prototyping in reducing manufacturing risk and cost
This milestone provides strong confidence as the project moves towards manufacture.
Manufacturing preparations underway
Preparations are now well advanced for production of the first metal cambox.
A visit to the preferred supplier will shortly finalise arrangements for manufacture of the cambox body, lid, end housing and drive gearbox, with production expected to begin in mid-July.
Expressions of interest will also be invited from specialist helical gear manufacturers, while the manufacturing specification for the camshafts is being completed following a successful engineering review of the cam profiles.
These activities represent the transition from detailed design into the manufacture of the first production components.
The road ahead
Development remains focused on three stages:
- Manufacture and test the first cambox.
- Refine the design and produce the second unit.
- Optimise the valve gear before entry into service.
Each completed stage reduces risk and moves the project closer to a fully operational locomotive.