Front View-- Engine #8

The VoR's generous 6'+ loading gauge (clearance template, in American railwayese) and its narrow 1' 11.5" running gauge are on full display in this front portrait of Engine #8. Notice the modest diameter of the boiler sheltering between the tall side tanks. The driver's-side air compressor is a recent innovation. In the years since privatization new owner Brecon Mountain Railway has worked hard to covert the line's engines and stock from the original vacuum braking system to a more powerful compressed air system. The change has considerably reduced stopping distance for heavy trains, an important safety consideration.