GNR 0-4-4 Crane Tank

GNR Stirling Crane Tank

No. 533 was built in 1876 by Stirling as one engine in a series of passenger tank engines. A larger boiler was fitted in 1891 making it a member of the GNR G2 class (not to be confused with the similar LNER G2 class). Withdrawn in June 1905, a crane was fitted and it was released for work at the Doncaster Works in March 1906. It carried no number but was lettered "DONCASTER WORKS". Duties at Doncaster included both heavy lifting and general shunting.

GNR Stirling Crane Tank

At about the time of Grouping (1923), the large wheel on the crane broke, and the crane fell into disuse. The entire engine was condemned in November 1928 to be replaced by a J54 tank engine.

During its life, this engine carried a number of different boilers. Most were domeless, but an Ivatt domed boiler from a member of the C12 class was fitted. This boiler was 15 inches longer. No known pictures exist showing how this extra length was accommodated.

Technical Details

The following is from GNR Records of the 1906 rebuild.

Cylinders (x2): 17.5x24in.
Boiler: Diameter (max): 4ft 5in
Length: 9ft 10in
Heating Surface: Total: 981.84 sq.ft.
Firebox: 83.17 sq.ft.
Tubes: 898.67 sq.ft.
Grate Area: 12.79 sq.ft.
Wheels: Coupled: 5ft 7in
Trailing: 3ft 1in
Total Wheelbase: 22ft 6in

Preservation

This 0-4-4 crane tank was withdrawn in November 1928 and scrapped.

Models

I am not aware of any models of this 0-4-4 crane tank.