The LMS Princess Coronation Pacifics, 1937-1956: Their Design and Development

This book is about the design, construction, operation, and performance of Sir William Stanier's masterpiece, the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives, also known as the Duchesses. It includes pen portraits of LMS engineers, a chapter on the express locomotives of the early LMS period, and chapters on the streamline era, the war years, and the early years of nationalization. It also includes 200 photographs and an appendix with weight diagrams, statistics, and names, liveries, allocations, and mileages.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

This book is a comprehensive and detailed account of the design, construction, operation, and performance of Sir William Stanier's masterpiece, the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives, also known as the "Duchesses." It delves into the intricate details of these iconic locomotives, providing a deep understanding of their significance in British rail history.

The book begins with an introduction that provides a historical background of the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives and their role in the development of the British railways. It explains the challenges faced by the LMS (London, Midland, and Scottish) during the early years of the steam locomotive era and the innovative solutions that Stanier and his team developed to overcome them.

Chapter 1: The Design and Construction of the Duchesses

This chapter explores the design and construction of the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives. It provides a detailed account of the engineering principles and techniques that were employed to create these remarkable machines. The author discusses the use of advanced materials, such as stainless steel, and the innovative design features that made the Duchesses efficient and reliable.

Chapter 2: The Operation and Performance of the Duchesses

This chapter examines the operation and performance of the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives. It discusses the locomotives' power output, speed, and acceleration capabilities, as well as their fuel consumption and maintenance requirements. The author also provides insights into the daily operations of the locomotives, including their crewing and scheduling.

Chapter 3: The LMS Engineers and the Express Locomotives of the Early LMS Period

This chapter focuses on the LMS engineers and their contributions to the development of the express locomotives of the early LMS period. It discusses the internal rivalries and politics that existed within the LMS, and how Stanier was brought in to resolve them. The author includes pen portraits of some of the key LMS engineers, providing a glimpse into their personalities and achievements.

Chapter 4: The Streamline Era, the War Years, and the Aftermath

This chapter covers the streamline era, the war years, and the aftermath of the Second World War. It discusses the impact of the war on the British railways, including the destruction of infrastructure and the loss of locomotives. The author also provides insights into the recovery of performance in the mid-1950s, including the 1948 locomotive exchanges and the introduction of new locomotives.

Chapter 5: The Early Years of Nationalisation, Including the 1948 Locomotive Exchanges and the Recovery of Performance

This chapter explores the early years of nationalisation, including the 1948 locomotive exchanges and the recovery of performance in the mid-1950s. It discusses the challenges faced by the British railways during this period, such as the need for modernisation and the introduction of new technologies. The author includes photographs and anecdotes from this period, providing a vivid account of the changes that took place

Chapter 6: The Author's Experiences and Photographs

This chapter includes some of the author's own experiences and photographs. It provides a personal perspective on the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives and their significance in British rail history. The author discusses his own encounters with the locomotives, including his visits to the workshops where they were built and his observations during their operation.

Chapter 7: Appendix: Weight Diagrams, Statistics of Locomotive Construction and Withdrawal, Names, Liveries, Allocations, and Mileages

This appendix includes weight diagrams, statistics of locomotive construction and withdrawal, names, liveries, allocations, and mileages. It provides valuable information for enthusiasts and researchers interested in the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in British rail history, engineering, or locomotives. It provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the design, construction, operation, and performance of Sir William Stanier's masterpiece, the Princess Coronation Pacific locomotives. The author's passion for these locomotives is evident in every page, and the book is filled with photographs, anecdotes, and insights that will captivate readers of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned rail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of steam locomotives, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Weight: 1016g
Dimension: 247 x 259 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399085779