Martin Shaw
Western Thunderer
They also had trycocks, so therefore retaining the ability to determine the approx water level, if for example the gauge glass burst. The need for independent water level indicators has been enshrined in law for many years and I can only assume that it is the use of meths as a fuel and the low water content of a typical gauge one boiler that makes it less of a liability, and thereby excused the inspection and insurance regime for bigger boilers. I would be interested to know where the line is drawn though, most 5" and 71/4" locomotives seem only to have one gauge glass, anything bigger I've come across, invariably two. I'm pleased to hear there has yet to be a problem, long may it continue.Am I not right in saying that GWR locomotives typically had only ONE water gauge?
Fair enough, that was the nub of my question, and it was by no means a criticism of TME models, I would be very pleased to own one.There is no room on these models for a traditional water gauge. The uniqueness of TME models has always been highly detailed scale cabs and the electronic water gauge is all there is room for.
Regards
Martin