The LNER Encyclopedia

Hello to all, I am currently researching into the design of LNER Atlantic No.3279, I believe originally built in 1907 as GNR No. 279 then rebuilt as a four cylinder by Sir Nigel Gresley in 1915. Finally it was redesigned back to a two cylinder using K2 cylinders and Walschaerts valve gear.

I have in my possession a part built 5" gauge of this design and I was wondering if anyone out there has any detailed drawings or photos of this loco to assist in the continuation of the build.

Thanks

Richard

I may be able to help with photos, but I think you need to state which version you are wanting to build?

John

Hi John thanks for your reply I have attached a photo of a completed model based on what I am making, unfortunately I can't find the owner to ask for any help with drawings. All I know it's a GNR Ivatt Atlantic with K2 Cylinders and Walschaerts valve gear.

Many thanks

Richard

Hi Rich,
a 5 inch version of the Ivatt Atlantic has been designed by Clarkson. You can get the plans via blackgates.co.uk, but I cannot tell you if there is a version with Walschaerts gear.

A 5 inch model of 3279 is running a guy at Ribble Valley Live Steamers (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bm3jL7LOsQ4 and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68jtxf7TPPA). In your case I would try to get a contact to him via the clubs homepage, maybe he can give you some hints.

Ralf

Hi Ralf,

Thanks for your reply the youtube video you linked I have already tried to locate the owner but with no result, I even tried the Sale engineering club as they were visiting on the day.

The loco your referring to from blackgates is the Waverly but that along with the Jersey Lily from AJ Reeves both use Stephensons link valve gear.

But thank you for your help

Richard

Good luck with the continuing construction - that is one of my favourite quirky locos, as you can probably tell from my ID!

I don't suppose the Isinglass drawings for model makers rather than model engineers are of the slightest use, but they do cover both rebuilt versions of the loco on separate sheets. You'll need much more detail in order to make the valve gear won't you?

From what I recall from conversation with John Edgson, his drawing of 3279 was a construct as he was unable to find source information.

John's notes on the drawing for 3279 admit that there is uncertainty, at least in respect of the cab.

I don't know which came first, model or drawing, but he did put his metal where his mouth was, so to speak, with 3279.

Hi All,

The photo posted by Rich shows 3279 in a very flattering light. I especially like the higher running plate, very much like on the Pacifics. OS Nock's volume on GN Atlantics also has a shot but, nowhere near as nice as this. I'll have to pick up #13 of Yeadon's Register. I suspect it will have a better range of photos.

BTW, I also prefer the appearance of the C1 class as modified with the larger cab. Just something about it transforms the loco's line that I like. Oh well, no accounting for taste as they say.

Regards,
Fairway 2746

Rich wrote: ↑Fri Nov 03, 2017 9:18 pm
The loco your referring to from blackgates is the Waverly but that along with the Jersey Lily from AJ Reeves both use Stephensons link valve gear.

Richard

Hello Richard,

blackgates has two types of Atlantic Plans:

The Waverly by Martin Evans and
The Ivatt Atlantic (large boiler) by Clarksons

you will find the Clarksons on Page 89 in the catalogue

Ralf