BR Diesels?

Question

Why do BR old type diesels clag so much under load? There cant be that much oil burnt off in the liners or the liners themselves must be severely worn.

Specifically classes 55, 47, 37 and 31.

Answer 1

Two reasons, really.  First of all, it's very old engine technology and, secondly, they are indeed very well worn.

Answer 2

Until our line went electric they used to leave the old diesels ticking over in a siding. This was because they were so worn they would not start normally and had to be tow started!

Severely worn is being kind!

RoyS

Answer 3

Class 31 and 37 are very old and originate from the start of the transistion period (Around 1950). Class 55 "Deltics" and 47 (55 preceding 47 for introduction) are slightly newer, originally dating from around the middle/end of the transistion period (55 - 70)