When I was very young my father took me to London and who should we bump into but Sir Nigel Gresley. My father knew him and we were introduced. We lived at Welwyn Garden City at the time and I used to watch those A4's thunder through at speed. But I digress. I said to Sir Nigel "Your engine is dirty!" He replied "Yes - but it's war-time" I later got a Works photograph from him of 'his' engine in pristine out-shopped condition. I still have it . . . somewhere . . .Michael
@@frankieboitv619 Yes my father knew Gresley too, arf arf. We used to call him "Nige" and often would discuss the scrapping of locos. Nige was always looking to scrap locos not designed by him. He hated other people's locos!
I understand that Thomas as a character has slightly messed up how railways in general have been perceived, but without the series he stars in, i and many others likely wouldn’t be here, and you have to admit, the railway series books are quite good
@@Go0read256k2 yeah same. Sure I had an autistic cousin who _really_ liked thomas. But he also _really_ liked taco bell. By their logic, crunchwrap supreme causes autism.
Thomas may be an embarrassment to adult enthusiasts but without him children would never be interested in steam locos and the love for steam trains would probably die out, so you have to give credit to Mr Awdry
Yes, I liked the books. But the series (especially the animated ones) are really an embarrassment. Everyone knows it. If you tell someone you like steam locomotives they immediately think you watch Thomas every night, you're not taken seriously and it's milked out, a lot. Especially with all these foreign engines and a fanbase of adults for god's sake.
That's probably true for the young these days and Thomas the Tank Engine certainly brings in the visitors but from what I've heard from people at Didcot (the GW Society) the franchise pretty well takes over your site for the duration and you must abide by their rules. They could be called bullies. I was captivated by these books as a youngster (I'm as old as a Q1) and never thought that these benign stories could end up in an organisation that has all the delicacy of the International Olympic Committee. As for the E2's they were insignificant to me as a locospotter. A typical constipated run-of-the-mill Brighton product of the time. The E4's were better and I've seen them shunt the yard at East Croydon. The Westinghouse pump would go "pissed, pissed, pissed" every two seconds or so, a dead giveaway of an LBSC loco.
SteamLance or it could be children growing up in the 40s 50s 60s 70s ETC who remember steam or Diesels of the 60s and 70s and grew up with them and I might of read some of Rev W Awdrys books as a child but over time forgot about the famous railway engines because after the 15 Guinea special hundreds of rail enthusiasts didn't flock to coal mining industries or preserved railways where steam was still operating just because they've read a few books if Thomas the tank engine and rail enthusiasm has been passed down the generations for many years not because of some blue Cringy choo choo and I know some kids are rail enthusiasts because of Thomas but you can't just say that every single rail enthusiast or train spottier in the world likes train because of Thomas
Yes, you could say that. It's so ugly it's beautiful in its functionality. Its tractive effort would put it in the 7F class but it is so light (to save material during the war) that its lack of adhesion weight reduces it to 5F. Bit silly really but that's Bulleid for you - clever but a bit mad.
I’ve always had a fondness for the Stirling Single Engine. From the smoke box that looks like a head of hair to that large driving wheel, it’s just an all around beautiful engine.
Thank you so much for sharing my opinion of the E2s! I do have a soft spot for Thomas, as it's the reason I'm interested in trains, but the locomotives themselves are just horribly designed. They do look kind of interesting though, and I'd like one of Hornby's one day for a LBSCR shunting layout or something (Or as a source of bits to make an I3 or something better) but their design is simply gaudy. They're like 0-6-0 versions of Hornby's clockwork toys from the thirties. The autotrain tests with them were abysmal, and the only reason they went to Southampton is because they didn't have anything else for them to do. And then some Davenport/Vulcan built machines showed up and made me a very proud Yank.
RockyRailroad Animation the Hornby model of the E2 is quite dated now, and I'm unsure if they'll reintroduce a more detailed one, or even one with an upgraded chassis into their "Railroad" range. If you have the time to do a little bit of "kit building" I would recommend "Sparkshot Custom Creations" on the website "Shapeways", as a good source for a fairly accurate model of an E2.
Whilst it's hard to disagree with the majority of what you've said, I've a couple of points I'd like to make. Firstly, though we may loathe the modern Thomas and Friends franchise for being a horrific, money printing, merchandise machine, it was the first stop on my route to becoming a rail enthusiast, as I imagine it is for many younger 'train spotters'. There are many 'old school' fans of the books and earlier TV series (before they started writing their own stories) who have tried to write the wrongs of post-Britt Sodor. Obvious examples are the Extended Railway Series, a group of talented writers who produce stories similar to the original books and Wild Nor' Wester's Sodor the Early/Modern Years series here on RUclips (for which i voice act) a long-running series of Britt-esque episodes that focus on providing a more realistic view of the fictional island, with more accurate rail operations. The problem with TTTE&F is not Thomas himself, but the board of directors who demand their pockets be filled with money and the writers who know little to nothing about railways. I highly approve of your inclusion of the S&DJR 7F. It's an excellent looking locomotive, which bags of character and it's as though it has a no-nonsense get-the-job-done demeanour. My personal favourite 'Standard Gauge British Steam Locomotive' is the MR 0-10-0 Lickey Banker, better known as 'Big Bertha'. In the research conducted by myself and two other chaps I met over the web, from what we could tell Bertha was, at a basic level, the result of crossing a 7F with The Incredible Hulk. Sure it could barely manage 30 miles an hour but as a machine built with the express purpose of doing one job, there aren't many that did so as impressively as Big Bertha. I only with I'd been around to see her before she was scrapped. I remember once talking to a gentleman at the NRM in York; I was stood looking at the miniature replica of Bertha (I forget the actual scale, she was about three feet long) when this chap came over to look himself and we got to talking. Turns out he'd been her fireman in his youth and he said she was the rail equivalent of a tug boat. Immensely powerful but not a lot you could do with it and despite being vital to the Birmingham-Bristol route it was overlooked and underappreciated. I have a soft spot for one-off and unusual locomotives, like Bertha, the SR Q1 class, D0260 Lion, D0280 Falcon, HS4000 Kestrel etc. and I'm afraid Leader is no different. It may have been a failure as a prototype but I like the concept. Essentially somewhere between a Garratt and two tank engines strapped together is was an attempt to make a steam locomotive with the operational advantages of a diesel, or an auto coach. I like the fact that it's hideous, it's like Quasimodo. Whilst the Leader class was doomed from the start because of the awful working conditions for the fireman, I think the concept itself could have been pushed forward. The Americans did something vaguely similar with Southern Pacific's cab-forward classes. Basically the locomotive was turned around and the tender was coupled to the smokebox end of the engine: This only worked because the loco was oil fired, of course. However, if the tender had had an autocoach cab in it...
Good list but I feel like you are being kinda harsh on Thomas and Friends. For many people, reading the books and watching the show was how they first discovered a passion and love for steam trains. Thomas was the entry point for many people who are dedicated, deeply knowledgeable railway enthusiasts today. If Thomas gets kids to feel the wonder and excitement of steam trains and maybe continue to feel that when they grow up, is that really such a bad thing?
It's mass culture and you're not taken serious anymore if you tell someone you like steam locomotives, since they immediately associate you with Thomas.
Thomas partly got me interested, but for me by the time I began watching Thomas and Friends, I was already into Steam engines, my parents and grandparents showed me videos and images of Flying Scotsman. So really it was mostly Flying Scotsman that got me into railways, Thomas helped to consolidate my love for steam engines.
Ah but which is your favourite A4? As for me my favourite is Sir Nigel Gresley, her blue and white accented colour scheme is perfect and I prefer how the driver wheels are exposed rather than behind the streamlined box on Mallard.
The M7s are very overlooked on the whole. 0-4-4 tanks often looked a bit funny, but the M7 did it just right. I can’t wait for the station tall to reopen so I can see no. 245 on display again.
The modern Thomas franchise is definitely an embarrassment to railway enthusiasm and history and I don't think thats going to change any time soon. However its all children have these days to get into this sort of stuff which is a shame really. I'd like to change that one day.. Great video by the way!
I would disagree the Thomas franchise is the reason heritage railways to keep going and to gives them a future. It helps the newer generations get into the railways and into volunteering at heritage railways. Don't you want them to get the money so there can maintain all there locomotives and Thomas is a big part of that. With the faces it makes the kids have more a connection with steam locomotives and there is lots of other programs with vehicles that have faces. I don't the problem with that and Thomas is still one of the best kids program that is still on today.
John trainfan101 Oh yeah definitely in terms of bringing children into the world of heritage.. But the actual product itself is still an embarrassment to railway heritage itself. Its kind of like the Dr Seuss films, they're awful and shit, but are there to just remind everyone of Dr Seuss Great work! Its not as embarrassing now as it has been for the past decade or so, but its certainly no RWS Accurate / Railway Heritage praying franchise though it does keep it alive in some way.
The TV series of Thomas And Friends is not meant to be the same as the RWS and does everything really need to be 100% accurate. It is meant to be telling a story and not teaching the history of the railways. The series as it is now is very good and the latest episodes have been great. The best it has been and since going CGI. More lately there has more accurate and parts of RWS be put in. Thomas and Friends the adventure begins had so much elements from the RWS and everything was accurate.Have you even try to watch the latest stuff and if you have not then can't call it embarrassment. Talking to kids that watch it and that would help you understand it more. Thomas and Friends has come one of the flew kids programs to gone worldwide and has become more of a big deal.
John trainfan101 I agree with you, but have to look at both sides of the "argument" and say that Thomas is still quite an embarrassment to Railway heritage aside. It does have great qualities, and I'm sure these guys review on TAB will be mostly positive. I Love the franchise, but that doesn't stop me realising that its stepped away from its 100% Railway accurate routes and has been much more focused on educational morals with the reminder or railways written around it and maybe used as a plot device here and there.
One of my favorites was the J94's. They were strong, common, and good all-around war designs. Also: their chuffing's so unique, you hardly find any other tankies that sound like it.
Since this list is for preserved locomotives, I'm going to give my list of locomotives that (although passed into history) I would love to see a replica built: 1. GCR Class 9F (later LNER Class N5): Although this may come off as a weird choice, the N5's (to me at least) work well with being 19th Century tank engines. 2. LMS Compound 4-4-0: While the original Midland Railway 1000 Class is preserved, I would love to see an LMS 4P Compound locomotive in action. Who knows, maybe this replica and Midland Compound 1000 can double head trains together! 3. GNR 521 Class (later LNER Class J6): Just look at these engines! *squeaky toy noises* They're small and adorable looking. It feels like you could have one as a pet...if trains were like your pet animal at home. 4. GER Class D81 (later LNER Class J20): I think the engine could work as like a static model, and sit beside the SR Q1 No. C1, because...why not! 5. SR Z class: I wish the Bluebell Railway preserved one of these big boys. They could be really impressive machines to watch in action. 6. LB&SCR E2: *oh no, I mentioned those cursed atrocities around Chris. run* All jokes aside, if a replica was made, WITHOUT all of the crap that makes Chris give the bird to these engines (i.e. Insufficient boiler, Long wheelbase, Rough riding, and Air braking) the replica (I like to think be given the name Thomas Allen) could be what Tophamm would say "really useful engine." 7. LNWR Precursor Tank Class: Having another "Atlantic" Tank Engine in action would be cool. This is why I love Atlantics, they're just cool by design, whether tender engine or tank engine! All I've said are just my opinions, and if you have a list, what would it be?
I’m glad I’m not the only one who’d love a Precursor Tank new build. They’re very nice looking and were reportedly efficient when initial faults were ironed out. An E2 would be easier to make and easier to fund, but a Precursor Tank would be just as nice to see.
As a big Thomas fan, I'm sorry to see so many of others' comments flipping you off for your disagreements. xD From what I understand, the E2s weren't downright shit, but agreeably to most, rather mediocre. In honesty, even had one made it to preservation, I can't see it having added much interest. They don't look like anything significant, and haven't too much setting them apart to E4 "Birch Grove". Their history is somewhat interesting, but doesn't change my opinion that they're better off left extinct. Out of curiousity, is there somewhere I can read/watch your thoughts on why TTTE is embarrassing? I'm intrigued to see your points! In regards to this video, I love your choice of music, especially for the least favourites list. Such a strong "spirited, blunt rant" sort of vibe I get from it! As for my personal faves, I don't have a top 10, but do particularly endear the Black Fives, the Standard Class 2s, the Standard 9Fs, the A1X Terriers and the Caledonian class 812. Though not steam engines, I also have soft spots for diesels such as the Hymeks and Class 40s, and even the CoBo class 28 despite its problematic engine. I'm very well aware that's off topic, though, so I'll zip it already. :P Great use of techniques you implemented in this vid, I hope to see more like it in the future.
I would recommend the Railway Series and *maybe* the first and second seasons of Thomas and Friends for people who want to go for something more realistic.
I'm cheering about the "German Diesel Thingy" :D That "thingy" is basically your pacer, with CLASS ;) Can we expect a "top 10 international steam locomotives" in the very distant future? I'd be interested to know if something German made it on that list. Greetings from Deutschland
Difficult one. I would definitly argue for the Prussian P8's, as in purpose that's basically a black five, only older. And even with their controversial background, the class br52's. Just the fact that they were spread out to all of Europe after the war and could just about tackle any job given to them by their new owners make them one of the best steam loco designs ever.
Jappy Both excellent choices, I heartily agree. I would also make a case for the Golsdorf 310's, the express engines that revolutionized the Austro-Hungarian railways. The French also have a fair shout with engines like the Chapelon Super Pacifics, or the 230G 4-6-0's, made famous by one's appearance in "Murder on the Orient Express". And of course, if we go way back, one can't forget the French & German Crampton engines, so much a feature of French railways that "Prende le Crampton" became well known slang even decades after their withdrawal.
Mallard's world record has never been officially exceeded by a steam locomotive, though the German Class 05 was at least very close: in 1936, two years before Mallard's run, 05 002 had reached 200.4 km/h (124.5 mph) between Hamburg and Berlin. Stoke Bank is long, straight and slightly downhill, whereas the 1936 run of 05 002 took place on a horizontal stretch of track. Unlike Mallard, 05 002 survived the attempt undamaged: on the other hand, its train was only four coaches long (197 tons), whereas Mallard's train was seven coaches (240 tons). Wikipedia `LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard' Please don't compare your Flying Hamburger with the Pacer !!, for economy the Pacer is a very basic design and does not even have bogies !! Greetings from England, UK.
I respect your opinions, but I have a book by a southern Fireman and he had quite high praises for the E2s, he did say that one of them used a lot of water on one occasion, but that was going flat out banking n train up a hill, besides that, he said they had good brakes and were good at their jobs. I know things are different on paper to real life, but looking at the "top trumps" facts of the E2s, the later 5 had a slightly greater water capacity than the 57XX class and only a little less tractive effort.
I love how people just come here and try to defend the E2's. It's not like they could change Chris's opinions. They just don't understand that the E2's runs like shit in real life.
I do like the 9F I think it is a shame we will never see them on the national network after all a freight loco that has been timed at over 90 is quite impressive.
My top 10 steam locos: 10: SR WC class (Rebuilt) 9: GWR 2800 class 8: LNER A1 (Peppercorn) 7: GWR 0-6-2 Tank (5600) 6: BR Class 8 (71000) 5: LMS Black 5 4: LNER A4 (BR Blue) 3: LMS Duchess (Rebuilt/non-streamlined) 2: GWR King class 1: LMS Royal Scot
I understand why tail enthusiasts find Thomas embarrassing and it can be really annoying but for a child growing up in Asia in the 90s, it was our first contact with a steam engine. Apart from the stories my mum told us (she loves trains) about steam engines back in the 1960s to 1970 when she’d watch steam engine thundering down the line in her backyard (she lived by the railway line). For the generation of millennial rail enthusiasts all we had were stories from our parents and Thomas. Not until I was 15 I had the privilege of riding a heritage line in Japan and I finally understood what my mum was talking about. Even though hardcore enthusiasts might hate the mass media nature of Thomas the more young people get interested in trains and their heritage the better chance we have in preserving these wonderful locos for generations to come.
Great List! I would Have Probably Picked the Gresley A1's as Number 1. I know its horrendously unoriginal but I can't help myself from just Adoring Flying Scotsman and his History. Also was Glad to see the 14XXs on your List, Those are without a doubt the best Tank engines in all of the UK.Ok, I know you probably have very valid points and I have no intentions of changing your mind, But I'd like to know why you think Thomas is such a huge embarrassment. Any Thomas Fan will Say that the show between 2003 and 2013 was God Awfully Horrendous, but the early days of the show and The Railway Series Books were Very Very Decent, and The Franchise in General has helped create younger railway enthusiast like me. I Grew up watching Talking Trains before I could appreciate the Actual Machinery. I would like to hear all your arguments against Thomas. (Also, The E2's Were failures but I still do think they have a Charm. I think they do look Better Than Jintys, although I Still Adore Jintys)
i think the reasoning had to do with what the franchise had become at the time the video came out (which if memory serves me, would be seasons 15-16 ). i dont know the guy so i dont know what his actual thoughts are, but even i had to be embarassed at how far it sunk at that point (its gotten much better since then, but future plans means that might be a question for later). personally, i loved the franchise when i got into it as a kid and its that (plus living within a block of a decently running railroad) that got me into the hobby (and growing up with thomas means an adult's face just lights up like a kid in a toy store when he sees the actual real life basis for the engines)
What an enjoyable video thank you so much! I must say I agree with your choice for number 1 and thanks for using the Pachelbel Canon in D two of my personal favourites are the O2 tank (LSWR) and the Bulleid Pacifics I actually saw those as a very small boy too young to actually "cop" them but I SAW them Anyway thank you again!
While the A4s are too my favourite disagree, I am a huge fan of every single engine in your top 3 worst. I like the DX Goods, I like the E2 and I even have a soft spot for the Leader.
The admin of that group have since spoken on another video stating they didn't really know what they were doing when they set up that page. Highly unlikely that project will happen in that form, given how its been received and how little 'building' has taken place.
My Australian list would be 10. The NSWGR 35 class 4-6-0s 9. The Victorian Railways G class Garratts 8.The SAR 700 class 2-8-2s 7. The QGR BB18 1/4 4-6-2s 6. NSWGR D55 class 2-8-0s 5. Victorian Railways H class 4-8-4 or Heavy Harry 4. The SAR 520 class locomotive 3. NSWGR C38 class 4-6-2s 2. Victorian Railways NA class 2-6-2Ts or Puffing Billy 1.Victorian Railways R class 4-6-4 Hudsons
Great list Chris. Great shout on the S15 and Lion. Only thing I'd say is it is a shame you never got to ride on the 56XX that was resident on the NYMR, because that made a wonderful fuss going up from Grosmount to Goathland. With a power classification of five they don't really get to prove themselves on the heritage branch lines they are found on.
As an unrefined Yankee, I would say that the A4, Duchess, and Bullied Pacifics are tied in my mind for the best of British steam. The A4 had blazing speed, the Duchess combined strength with elegance, and the Bullied Pacifics had the aura of working-class grit.
@@Evaunit98 Hopefully we'll have a P2 again, since the folks who built Tornado have now turned their attention to the P2 class. While I thoroughly agree with your view of the ugly Thompson pacifics, not to mention his desecration of Gresley's pioneer Great Northern, even without that all the P2's might have gone to scrap anyway since so tragically few LNER locos ended up at Barry scrapyard.
I just got my copy of Going Great Central in the post, I just want to say, fantastic. Really detailed, and great to see my local train company on it(Chiltern Railways) You should do more documentaries like this. Keep up the good work.
I agree with the A4 why should it be beaten but not everyone has that much sense and the new American T1 duplex will some how break the record by 20 mph ?
Well before all were scrap someone went on some trains which they pulled and clocked them going 140 mph average. And with use of modern materials and more realibility, i don't see the possibility to be too far off.
@@britanniaolivercromwell5006they aren't useing the poppet valve gear on this engine. There using a more reliable one that won't break as easily, and as for the wheel slipping, it was mostly cause by inexperienced crews and not being too light, that was an issue with the S1, not the T1.
My top 10: 10. USATC S160 9. 9F 8. Leader (I know, ugly train, but I like the LUL battery locos too, so that makes up for it I guess) 7. GWR City Class 6. E2 Tank (I just like the little things, despite them being no more!) 5. Q1 (Same reason as leader only I love the Q1s just for their weirdness) 4. GT3 (forgotten black five framed Gas Turbine amazingness) 3. J94 (adorable saddle tank engines) 2. SE&CR C class (just lovely looking 0-6-0 and long lived too!) 1. A4 (for the exact same reason Chris pointed out!)
Really enjoy your work Chris. Cam over June 2012 and spent a day a York for the Raliex, your clip on the City reminded me. Keep it up when you can, it's great.
I could argue about the 30's being the "greatest decade" of the 20th Century (Rise of Hitler, the Depression, the Purges in the USSR, Japanese aggression into east Asia, Labor strife in the UK, the lead up to WWII) but i do have to agree with your points about the A4. While it would be interesting to argue about, say, the claim to the record (Mallard was going downhill, and damaged itself, while the German BR 05 #002, the previous record holder from 1936 of 124.5 mph, earned its record on level track and without damaging itself but was pulling a lighter train (which could also be argued that Mallard had some help from the weight of it's train pushing it down the grade- ah peas, i set off :) ) I think it is best to leave well enough alone. As for the E2's....eh, blame Reginald Payne. the Rev. Awdry's design for Thomas looked more like a kitbashed J50 knockoff.
The German 05 was a purpose-built record-attempt loco, while the A4s were built for everyday use, and turned out to excel at hauling heavytrains up what you British regard assteep gradients. My own favourite is the NZR Ja class 4-8-2 (Apart from a brief drive in an Ab, all the locos I've driven are j or Ja class). And the DeLorean was an underdeveloped show car made for a market which probablydidn't exist.
10. Jubilee 9. Bullied light Pacific 8. Black 5 7. SECR C class 6. Manning Wardle K class 5. 3200 Dukedog 4. 111 Great Bear 3. SR Lord Nelson class 2. BR standard 8 1. GWR Castle class
Aren’t seasons 6-7 classic too. David Mitton, Mike and Junior and even Britt Allcroft (as executive producer) were still around an we’re Duck, both twin pairs, Oliver, Toad, Terence, Stepney and the narrow gauge engines.
This comment section summarised: ● The T1 taking Mallard's record. - That won't happen and the Americans know it. Also stop trying to brag about it. ● The E2 isn't rubbish & *insert awful insult here* -The E2's were rubbish, they poorly steamed, were coal and water demanding, and were replaced by the USA dock tanks. ● Other comments about Chris' favourites and people triggered about his opinions Overall, anyone who falls into either of those comments sections, please understand that this video is opinion based (and fact based E2 wise). If you're not willing to accept opinions and be civil about it, this isn't the community you should be apart of.
Yes the T1 won’t break Mallards record there is no way this finicky f*ck will beat the perfect steam locomotives and to the T1 trust why this locomotive and not I don’t know maybe something better than the slipping, finicky abortion that doesn’t seem to work
Wow, so many people put out by his opinion of the E2. I for one agree with him; E2s weren't all that much to talk about and let's be honest: the only reason you know about E2 tanks is because of the Railway Series and nothing else. The class literally had no legs to stand on. About the whole speed record bit starting at 17:30: I agree completely. Why would anyone want to attempt to break Mallard's speed record? Mallard herself failed as she broke the record being pushed beyond her physical limitations, and who wants to push an engine that hard when it's hard enough and expensive enough already to repair and maintain one of these beasts. Yet there is one group of blokes here in the states who are building a new steam locomotive for no other reason than to break said record: the T1 Locomotive Trust. The trust aims to build a PRR 4-4-4-4 T1 over a period of about 20 years then take it to some test track and attempt to break the speed record. Why? Probably something nonsensical like "Cause we're America and we *have* to be the fastest". Hey, I'm American and I'm more than happy to let Mallard keep her record. Having the fastest steam locomotive is not going to prove anything anymore, so why pursue it? Let's not forget that the T1s were awful locomotives. They were fast, but that was their only positive characteristic. They were nightmares to maintain, they were extremely prone to slipping, their frames cracked, they were ugly as sin, and due to several other faults they were retired early. So early in fact that the K4s pacific, the locomotives the T1s were supposed to replace on top link work, outlived all of the T1s and retained their title of top express engines on the PRR. Huh, a design made in 1914 beat out a design from 1942. If that's not pathetic I don't know what is. Also I've heard that this new locomotive is already being preemptively banned from running in certain places in the United States. On top of that, even if that blasted T1 does beat the record, what else is it going to do? Steam simply does not run fast in the USA, and there is almost nowhere outside the Northeast Corridor something like a T1 can show off its only good feature: its high-speed capabilities. Honestly when I first heard about the project I hoped it was a hoax. Then I hoped it would just go away. Now I'm hoping that I get an overdose of "Schadenfreude" when that stupid thing finally does roll out of the works and it *doesn't* draw the crowds.
david whiting you know many American steam engines beat mallards record the only reason no one found out about one-of the C&O 4-6-4 hitting 132 mph on a troupe trains in world war 2 was because Americas government didn't want the other country's finding out about there fast strong locos
Before I annoy someone. I do not like the prr t1. I think it's ugly. And all the issues she had were enough to end her career short. But I see nothing wrong with trying to prove that steam can go faster even after the end of steam. The fact that it's a divided argument is idiotic. Why would one side try to brag without a loco in the first side. And why would the other side even care if steam can go faster than another ugly steamer (yea I know my bad I like generic coal drag steamers I don't like streamliners pls understand) the fact that people want to better steam technology in the first place should make people excited to see what will happen. So idk. I like to argue and pick neither side. I just like steam
@@justinhicks4897 That argument makes no sense whatever, why would it matter if any other country, ally or enemy, knew about the speed (or otherwise) of American locos? What was anyone else ever going to do about it, and what military purpose would it ever serve? If the C&O had done it, it might have been useful propaganda, that's all.
9:45 sorry to say this, I love the 14xx and it's my favourite GWR engine, but the fact you said that they are unique due to them not being traced, well the design is credited to the earlier Armstrong 517 class, an almost identical locomotive. I'm sure you even mentioned this in your Slip, could be wrong.
I may be a Great Western Fan but I am also an LSWR, BR STD and Midland Fan too. 1. GWR Castles (MY BAE 'Earl of Ducie' ~ 5054) 2. BR STD 7 'Oliver Cromwell' 3. LSWR T9 4. LSWR M7 5. GWR 14xx 6. GWR County (4-6-0 and 4-4-0) 7. BR STD 5MT 8. LMS 3F 'Jinty' 9. GWR 28xx 10. BR STD 2MT Thats my opinion...and my choice...whats yours everybody?
@TheRoarinSpitty That's unusual, since the GWR and the LSWR were long-time 'enemies' :) But of course you can be a fan of whatever you want. In LSWR terms, I'd also consider the very distinctive Adams T3 (still extant as no 563), noteworthy for its long-wheelbase Adams bogie and outside cylinders when everything else was inside, and boy does it look racy. In GWR terms (and I must admit to not being a GWR fan), I've always thought the Dukedogs looked very distinctive and quite a satisfying shape.
I can't argue on your #1 favourite, or probably half the others - I love 5MT's and Kings, Castles, etc, but I do like things like the USA tanks and their tender-engine version - the S160. I also very much like the 4MT tank (and YES, I want one in CR blue!), as well as the Caledonian 812 class, as well as some of Brunel's broad gauge stuff. Keep up the good work Chris!
I would not say that Thomas is embarrassing and more a helpful thing. That has helped heritage railways to keep going and to give them a future. I liked Trainspotting live and it was very good. In my opinion is better than the steam program on BBC 2.
John trainfan101 trainspotting live called the K1 a Black 5 and made us look like fools. Same for Thomas which make us enthusiast seem as little kids. Myself and a few others I know got interest from railways themselves NOT ttte. Railways now don't need or do thomas events because it's a large amount of money felt wasted!
I started to take an intrest because of Thomas and Friends, mind you I live in the states but agree about the post s4 parts of the show are a major embarrassment to railway heritage & railway enthusiasts, I agree about the only reason anyone likes the E2s now, my personal list is. 10. Bulleid Pacifics 9. LNER N7 8. BR 4MT 4-6-0 7. S15s 6. SECR P Class 5. GWR Castle Class 4. Stanier Duchesses 3. GWR Small Prairies 2. GWR Mogul 1. GWR Large Prairies
that thing is a Kitson Still Steam-diesel hybrid. Basically, it used a steam engine that used both fuel oil, and the spent heat of a diesel engine to boil water.
Hating a steam locomotive because it's ugly... It's like being hated at school because you got a lot of acne or you wear "ugly" clothes. How would you feel as a steam engine and others called you ugly because of your design? Pretty upset, right? That's what I thought.
@@thereadingg3945 well if its an ugly loco and has no redeeming aspects then you can understand why people hate it. The Q1 is a very ugly locomotive, but it was very powerful and was a great machine overall. It's performance made up for its ugliness. The Leader had no redeeming factors and thus was terrible.
Enjoyed your film as always, but surprised that the 9Fs didn't make it into your top ten. At least a Riddles was in there. Also nothing representing the work of Ivatt. Nevermind. Loved the film though! Best regards from Germany!
Excellent review Chris :) I love the SDJR 7F's and the Princess Royals, so I was glad to see they were some of your faves. Could you ever do a video of your favourite overseas steam locomotives?
Look, I understand everyone's opinion on the E2. But I completely understand Chris' view on the engine. It's too overrated. He as an adult totally understands the feeling of being associated with Thomas when you tell them you love steam locomotives. It has gone too far. Awdry did a great job with the books. I enjoyed reading them as a kid. The model series were alright, but after a couple of seasons it went downhill very quick. The mass culture is horrible, the toy production everywhere is just terrible and the fanbase of adults is really smashing a huge crater in locomotive enthusiasm. Yes, many young people got into locomotive enthusiasm because of Thomas, but that doesn't mean it's all good now. People talking about the E2 having charm and that it doesn't need Thomas to prove that are seriously taking a shit with themselves. Since none were preserved NO ONE would ever think about rebuilding one or even speak about it. If it wasn't for the blue tank engine it would disappear in time and be stuck in old records. It was a horrible engine and not efficient. I was very ill (appendixes) when I was three years old and my British neighbor (I'm Dutch) brought me a video tape of Thomas Season 1. It was in English and I couldn't understand a word of it, but it certainly created my love for trains. Yes. It means a hell lot to me. But seriously don't get picky on Chris for saying it's shit, because I can totally understand his feelings, and I have to cope with them too, every damn time.
Well I'm glad the 7f was on that list. Great countdown Chris, and I completely agree with what you said at the beginning of the video and on the bulleid leader. Keep the faith - Callum
There's a group of Yanks who want to take Mallard up on that speed record. They're rebuilding a Pennsylvania Railroad T1 4-4-4-4 duplex, to be operational next decade.
Well, yes and no, no because the majority of rails in the US aren't built to handle high speed anymore, their built to handle very heavy and long freight trains, its also not likely that Amtrak would allow the T1 on the 5% of track they do own. So the chances to actually have a go at it is slim to none. And before any of you start a fight in this guys replys about the record, theres a new one, the fastest PRESERVED steam record, mallards record is now called the official service steam record, the preserved one is currently held by tornado
Least favorites: Yeah, kind of have to agree about the Taffy Tanks. As GWR machines go, they're a little on the naff side; the big counterweights on the #2 driving wheels always threw me off. And they really only worked around the coal fields of South Wales, ergo the moniker. I almost wish at least one DX Goods engine had survived, if only so we'd know how truly crap they really were. As it is, they sound like the WWII Liberty Ships: cranked out as fast as they could to do a job until they were sunk or fell apart. Ah, the Leader. I was wondering when this one would come up. In fact, I can add a Reason #8: THEY DIDN'T SODDING WORK! They didn't work when Bullied tried them under the Southern, they didn't work when BR tried to fix them, and they didn't work when the Irish hired Bullied to make a peat-burning version for them. ... I'm just gonna step back a bit after that E2 rant... and maybe get the popcorn ready to watch the Tumarse fandom devour you alive. This being said, I won't disagree that for a replacement for the A1X Terriers Billington... maybe could have done a bit better. I'm actually surprised the Bullied Light Pacifics aren't up here too. Okay, there's still a lot of them around and they did get better after BR built them properly, but I remember your video on them and the long list of problems they had (the longest in SLIP history, if memory serves). And come on, any engine that can list "Can catch fire" among its traits can surely be looked on as nothing but one of the worst. Need I bring up the phrase "His firebox was on fire"? That's what I thought. #1: Yeeep. Saw this one coming a mile away. They're practically technically perfect, they're a national icon for Britain and the 1930's in general, they're just all around awesome. Okay, clearly I'm the only person in the world who actually kind of likes the Class 142 Pacers. I remember riding one from Preston to Burnley and back and it was brilliant; comfy seats, decent ride comfort, certainly better than the Virgin rubbish on the main lines. The biggest problem I see with them, and what I think is the root of a lot of the hate for them is that they're the right train, but being used for the wrong job. On anything resembling a main line, or even a busy secondary line, they're rubbish; they don't have the passenger capacity to handle heavy rush hour traffic and they're too slow for anything like a commuter run. What they are is a bus on rails, and that's fine. Where they should be working is on tertiary lines, branches serving smaller communities or suburbs that connect with the larger lines. There's a big trend in Britain for rebuilding and reopening branch lines closed by the Beeching cuts (gee, it's almost like annihilating a third of your nation's rail infrastructure, including numerous rural connections, with no attempt at foresight toward continuous population center growth was a BAD idea), and its these lines where the Pacers would be perfect. I have to say though, that ending was a bit of a downer. Not that I disagree with your points at all; yes, a steam engine breaking Mallard's record today would be a pointless gesture. Back when Mallard set the record, rail transport in general and steam engines in particular meant something very different than it does today. It actually meant something to have a class of engines as fast as Mallard. Nowadays, an attempt to break that record would feel at best like an empty gesture because steam engines aren't regularly used anymore, not in most places on Earth, and at worst it would feel like... almost a spiteful gesture, taking away one of the last truly meaningful unbeaten elements of railway history for no real reason at all. So yes, I understand your points in this ending. Still, bit of a low note to go out on, eh?
well, to play a devil's advocate concerning the record, the debate has gone on for decades and back when steam was still around most of the locos who could legit challenge and/or break the record never really had the opportunity to do so.in the T1 duplex's case, I think the loco (if it gets built) has a lot to prove to the world, so many stereotypes and myths surrounding this class, the fact that 5550 will be based off of 5500, the most successful T1 of the originals will probably tell everyone that with proper handling as well as proper maintenance, this class should've been a design the PRR would be proud of, as far as speed goes, I've always had the belief that American steam doesn't get enough respect, sadly 999 and 7002 kinda hurt my case since their records are exaggerated (you could make a case for PRR E6 460 here too, 115 MPH really? maybe 100 but no more than that) and people praise the A4's for their speed, but come on, some USA steam are just as fast as most of the streaks, and we had about 2, maybe 3 classes that can beat mallard, Milwaukee road class A no.2 reached 112 mph 4 months and 2 weeks before silver link did, and yet silver link was more famous (or is it beloved? not quite sure) and the Milwaukee road only got as far as considering letting the world know how fast the hiawathas really are by proposing a 1 hour timetable between Chicago and Milwaukee, before nixing it due to a "gentleman's agreement " with the Burlington and C&NW. the sad reality is those 3 classes that can upstage mallard were all scrapped in the early to mid '50s. (damn diesels)
RedEye Nerf Aye, they did indeed. At the time (post-war, early 1950's), Irish motive power was basically a shambles, mostly clapped out Victorian 4-4-0s and a very few diesels. Further, Ireland has no large natural reserves of steam coal (coal with a high sulfur content that will burn hotter and cleaner) nor oil reserves, so importing coal and oil was a great expense the Irish State Railways felt they couldn't afford. They'd experimented with peat-burning engines before with limited success, so in 1951 they hired the recently outed Oliver Bullied to come over and design a modern engine for them that could burn peat and compete with the diesels. What Bullied gave them was No. CC1, basically a slightly improved version of the Leader. It first rolled out in 1957 on the Dublin-Cork line where it proved an instant failure, mostly owing to a lot of the same faults that had plagued the Leader. The Irish Railways abandoned the project in 1958 after Bullied retired. They kept the engine running until 1963, when it was officially withdrawn from service, being broken up in 1965, although its boiler was kept for possible stationary use.
I like the E2s just from the shape of the tanks. The way Thomas is designed on TV makes the extended tanks pointless, but on an actual E2, it was an interesting alternative to a Pannier tank. Stable, while providing some access to the inside motion. Though, I'm immensely surprised that Billington actually intended them to replace the Terriers. And comparing them to the 5600s, at least Billington's engines were balanced. The only comfortable way to drive an engine with that much overhang is in reverse! I don't care if their tank engines, you can't see that much with the coal bunker behind you. As for the DXs, they're disappearance could either be from the Scrap & Build policy, or the fact that their the only engines I've seen in photos with wooden brakes and literally no brakes whatsoever. WHY?! Also, about the steam speed record being broken...even if T1 5550 doesn't break it, it'll be great seeing an actual non-articulated duplex.
reasons why the pacer would be on my top 10 list. 1. its a bus 2. it looks cool and has done okay 3. is a small DMU that basically can go any where almost 4. it looks like it has some cool history
Goods Van Productions I'm sorry but I hate the pacer so I must hate you as well it's engine men's code also one got squished by a class 66 it was awesome because no one was in it
Pretty good list. I liked seeing the Black 5s, the Princess Royals, and City of Truro (and I kind of had a feeling you'd pick the LNER A4s as #1). And as for that joke at 2:51, sorry, but you've brought it upon yourself (snicker). Also, just to ask, if you were to do one or more top 10s for your channel, what do you think you'd do it (or them) on?
LOL well... BBC did have that coming to be fair.. there is only one thing I can say.. Just look at her... that was the only highlight of that BBC program.
I had to do everything for them except present the show!! I'm so glad there not coming to didcot again, they left the maps behind and we used them for lighting up material the next day, that's the only perk of there " visit"
The BBC has redeemed themselves with Full Steam Ahead though presented by the Victorian Farm team. A much better programme by any measure, its educational, fun, engaging and doesn't take the wee wee like Trainspotting Live.
I liked Trainspotting live and it was very good. In my opinion is better than Full Steam Ahead. As it was not limited just steam and had diesels and electrics. I am more into actually trains than what the effects the railways had and there is nothing wrong with spotting for trains.
A hard choice, but I think that overall my favourite steam engine would have to be GWR Small Prairie Tanks. I have always had a particular soft spot for tank engines, and the Small Prairies. I love the look of them, I love the sound of that western chime whistle and the exhaust beat from those huge cylinders. I love how they look so at home on a western branch line or on a suburban service, and especially on goods trains. They were some of the most versatile engines built by the GWR. Although they were a power class C/4MT, they had yellow route availability. A reasonably powerful engine that can go almost anywhere on the network? Sounds good to me. They're also almost as powerful as their bigger cousins the Large Prairies, but they could go further afield, and those smaller driving wheels mean that they would handle hills almost as well. These things were fast too, topping out and around 70 miles an hour. These things used to basically race Jubilees on the mainline with timed runs. A small western tank engine racing against a midland Express engine? You can't much more awesome than that for steam engines. Yes they had minor faults and issues such as rocking at lower speeds because of the force of the cylinders and lubricating the joints wasn't easy, but none of that stopped them from being one of the GWR's greatest designs
I watched one episode. The old man presenter (I don't know their names) mistook a Gresley k4 for a black five. the lady gave a mathematical equation on the simple question of why diesels replaced steam. and the overenthusiastic guy they send out to spot trains had no regard for any other spotters, or people in general, on the platform. I wasn't exactly overwhelmed.
it was a brave attempt but it was utterly dreadful and made rail enthusiasts look like wierdos full steam ahead was on the other hand one of the best programs i have seen for a long time
When I was very young my father took me to London and who should we bump into but Sir Nigel Gresley. My father knew him and we were introduced. We lived at Welwyn Garden City at the time and I used to watch those A4's thunder through at speed. But I digress. I said to Sir Nigel "Your engine is dirty!" He replied "Yes - but it's war-time" I later got a Works photograph from him of 'his' engine in pristine out-shopped condition. I still have it . . . somewhere . . .Michael
Your father knew sir Nigel Gresley! That's cool
Any idea what engine it was
@@frankieboitv619 Yes my father knew Gresley too, arf arf. We used to call him "Nige" and often would discuss the scrapping of locos. Nige was always looking to scrap locos not designed by him. He hated other people's locos!
I bet he would love to see some of the Lms locos get scrapped
@@PreservationEnthusiast RIP UP THOSE PACERS >:)
I was far from thought of by then, hell even my nana and grandad wernt around for over 20 years after nigels death!
I understand that Thomas as a character has slightly messed up how railways in general have been perceived, but without the series he stars in, i and many others likely wouldn’t be here, and you have to admit, the railway series books are quite good
if Hit hadn't bought it, it wouldn't be an embarrassment
@@pilotbug6100 first seven seasons were good, it’s been downhill from there.
Because of thomas, liking trains in any capacity is seen as a sign of autism.
@@PilloTheStarI hate stereotypes
@@Go0read256k2 yeah same. Sure I had an autistic cousin who _really_ liked thomas. But he also _really_ liked taco bell. By their logic, crunchwrap supreme causes autism.
Thomas may be an embarrassment to adult enthusiasts but without him children would never be interested in steam locos and the love for steam trains would probably die out, so you have to give credit to Mr Awdry
Yes, I liked the books. But the series (especially the animated ones) are really an embarrassment. Everyone knows it. If you tell someone you like steam locomotives they immediately think you watch Thomas every night, you're not taken seriously and it's milked out, a lot. Especially with all these foreign engines and a fanbase of adults for god's sake.
That's probably true for the young these days and Thomas the Tank Engine certainly brings in the visitors but from what I've heard from people at Didcot (the GW Society) the franchise pretty well takes over your site for the duration and you must abide by their rules. They could be called bullies.
I was captivated by these books as a youngster (I'm as old as a Q1) and never thought that these benign stories could end up in an organisation that has all the delicacy of the International Olympic Committee.
As for the E2's they were insignificant to me as a locospotter. A typical constipated run-of-the-mill Brighton product of the time. The E4's were better and I've seen them shunt the yard at East Croydon. The Westinghouse pump would go "pissed, pissed, pissed" every two seconds or so, a dead giveaway of an LBSC loco.
Thomas the tank engine is how I started to love trains
I no right thay get enbarst to much I love frozen.
SteamLance or it could be children growing up in the 40s 50s 60s 70s ETC who remember steam or Diesels of the 60s and 70s and grew up with them and I might of read some of Rev W Awdrys books as a child but over time forgot about the famous railway engines because after the 15 Guinea special hundreds of rail enthusiasts didn't flock to coal mining industries or preserved railways where steam was still operating just because they've read a few books if Thomas the tank engine and rail enthusiasm has been passed down the generations for many years not because of some blue Cringy choo choo and I know some kids are rail enthusiasts because of Thomas but you can't just say that every single rail enthusiast or train spottier in the world likes train because of Thomas
I love the Q1. Its so quirky and the pinnacle of 0-6-0 steam.
Yes, you could say that. It's so ugly it's beautiful in its functionality. Its tractive effort would put it in the 7F class but it is so light (to save material during the war) that its lack of adhesion weight reduces it to 5F. Bit silly really but that's Bulleid for you - clever but a bit mad.
"hey, do you know what we could run trains on? PEAT!"
@@harrytodhunter5078 About time we stopped burning stuff. Haven't you heard of climate change and sea level rise?
Indeed
the basis of neville ( BR 33010)
I’ve always had a fondness for the Stirling Single Engine. From the smoke box that looks like a head of hair to that large driving wheel, it’s just an all around beautiful engine.
I agree i want one in 00 gauge for my layout but there aren't any and I'm no good at kit builds
Locomotion models have created a ready-to-run OO Stirling single.
Mine MUST be The A4s. I have been to see them and they are just Breathtaking. They are beautiful, elegant and I adore them
The E2 review, funniest thing ever...
Thank you so much for sharing my opinion of the E2s! I do have a soft spot for Thomas, as it's the reason I'm interested in trains, but the locomotives themselves are just horribly designed. They do look kind of interesting though, and I'd like one of Hornby's one day for a LBSCR shunting layout or something (Or as a source of bits to make an I3 or something better) but their design is simply gaudy. They're like 0-6-0 versions of Hornby's clockwork toys from the thirties. The autotrain tests with them were abysmal, and the only reason they went to Southampton is because they didn't have anything else for them to do.
And then some Davenport/Vulcan built machines showed up and made me a very proud Yank.
RockyRailroad Animation the Hornby model of the E2 is quite dated now, and I'm unsure if they'll reintroduce a more detailed one, or even one with an upgraded chassis into their "Railroad" range. If you have the time to do a little bit of "kit building" I would recommend "Sparkshot Custom Creations" on the website "Shapeways", as a good source for a fairly accurate model of an E2.
Had Thomas been a Jinty or E1 Terrier, I doubt the E2 would be as remembered as it is now.
Whilst it's hard to disagree with the majority of what you've said, I've a couple of points I'd like to make.
Firstly, though we may loathe the modern Thomas and Friends franchise for being a horrific, money printing, merchandise machine, it was the first stop on my route to becoming a rail enthusiast, as I imagine it is for many younger 'train spotters'. There are many 'old school' fans of the books and earlier TV series (before they started writing their own stories) who have tried to write the wrongs of post-Britt Sodor. Obvious examples are the Extended Railway Series, a group of talented writers who produce stories similar to the original books and Wild Nor' Wester's Sodor the Early/Modern Years series here on RUclips (for which i voice act) a long-running series of Britt-esque episodes that focus on providing a more realistic view of the fictional island, with more accurate rail operations. The problem with TTTE&F is not Thomas himself, but the board of directors who demand their pockets be filled with money and the writers who know little to nothing about railways.
I highly approve of your inclusion of the S&DJR 7F. It's an excellent looking locomotive, which bags of character and it's as though it has a no-nonsense get-the-job-done demeanour. My personal favourite 'Standard Gauge British Steam Locomotive' is the MR 0-10-0 Lickey Banker, better known as 'Big Bertha'. In the research conducted by myself and two other chaps I met over the web, from what we could tell Bertha was, at a basic level, the result of crossing a 7F with The Incredible Hulk. Sure it could barely manage 30 miles an hour but as a machine built with the express purpose of doing one job, there aren't many that did so as impressively as Big Bertha. I only with I'd been around to see her before she was scrapped. I remember once talking to a gentleman at the NRM in York; I was stood looking at the miniature replica of Bertha (I forget the actual scale, she was about three feet long) when this chap came over to look himself and we got to talking. Turns out he'd been her fireman in his youth and he said she was the rail equivalent of a tug boat. Immensely powerful but not a lot you could do with it and despite being vital to the Birmingham-Bristol route it was overlooked and underappreciated.
I have a soft spot for one-off and unusual locomotives, like Bertha, the SR Q1 class, D0260 Lion, D0280 Falcon, HS4000 Kestrel etc. and I'm afraid Leader is no different. It may have been a failure as a prototype but I like the concept. Essentially somewhere between a Garratt and two tank engines strapped together is was an attempt to make a steam locomotive with the operational advantages of a diesel, or an auto coach. I like the fact that it's hideous, it's like Quasimodo. Whilst the Leader class was doomed from the start because of the awful working conditions for the fireman, I think the concept itself could have been pushed forward. The Americans did something vaguely similar with Southern Pacific's cab-forward classes. Basically the locomotive was turned around and the tender was coupled to the smokebox end of the engine: This only worked because the loco was oil fired, of course. However, if the tender had had an autocoach cab in it...
The Black 5s just seem to have this "Don't worry, I'll get it done" vibe.
That's why Henry is such a chad
Good list but I feel like you are being kinda harsh on Thomas and Friends. For many people, reading the books and watching the show was how they first discovered a passion and love for steam trains. Thomas was the entry point for many people who are dedicated, deeply knowledgeable railway enthusiasts today. If Thomas gets kids to feel the wonder and excitement of steam trains and maybe continue to feel that when they grow up, is that really such a bad thing?
It's mass culture and you're not taken serious anymore if you tell someone you like steam locomotives, since they immediately associate you with Thomas.
AmyPondLover thomas makes us seem like a bunch of children. Personally my interest started from mainly the NRM!
Thomas partly got me interested, but for me by the time I began watching Thomas and Friends, I was already into Steam engines, my parents and grandparents showed me videos and images of Flying Scotsman. So really it was mostly Flying Scotsman that got me into railways, Thomas helped to consolidate my love for steam engines.
cap: 999 went first
Stark: it was obviously City of Truro
(cue Civil War titles)
Ah but which is your favourite A4? As for me my favourite is Sir Nigel Gresley, her blue and white accented colour scheme is perfect and I prefer how the driver wheels are exposed rather than behind the streamlined box on Mallard.
Mallard is my favourite for its history and achievements, but Sir Nigel is a close second (and it still runs so there’s the joy of seeing it steam).
I'd personally rate the M7 as my favorite locomotive; they were versatile, full of personality, and they look nice
The M7s are very overlooked on the whole. 0-4-4 tanks often looked a bit funny, but the M7 did it just right. I can’t wait for the station tall to reopen so I can see no. 245 on display again.
The modern Thomas franchise is definitely an embarrassment to railway enthusiasm and history and I don't think thats going to change any time soon. However its all children have these days to get into this sort of stuff which is a shame really. I'd like to change that one day..
Great video by the way!
I would disagree the Thomas franchise is the reason heritage railways to keep going and to gives them a future. It helps the newer generations get into the railways and into volunteering at heritage railways. Don't you want them to get the money so there can maintain all there locomotives and Thomas is a big part of that. With the faces it makes the kids have more a connection with steam locomotives and there is lots of other programs with vehicles that have faces. I don't the problem with that and Thomas is still one of the best kids program that is still on today.
John trainfan101 Oh yeah definitely in terms of bringing children into the world of heritage.. But the actual product itself is still an embarrassment to railway heritage itself. Its kind of like the Dr Seuss films, they're awful and shit, but are there to just remind everyone of Dr Seuss Great work! Its not as embarrassing now as it has been for the past decade or so, but its certainly no RWS Accurate / Railway Heritage praying franchise though it does keep it alive in some way.
The problem is for heritage railways to make any money after meeting the demands of the franchise holders
The TV series of Thomas And Friends is not meant to be the same as the RWS and does everything really need to be 100% accurate. It is meant to be telling a story and not teaching the history of the railways. The series as it is now is very good and the latest episodes have been great. The best it has been and since going CGI. More lately there has more accurate and parts of RWS be put in. Thomas and Friends the adventure begins had so much elements from the RWS and everything was accurate.Have you even try to watch the latest stuff and if you have not then can't call it embarrassment. Talking to kids that watch it and that would help you understand it more. Thomas and Friends has come one of the flew kids programs to gone worldwide and has become more of a big deal.
John trainfan101 I agree with you, but have to look at both sides of the "argument" and say that Thomas is still quite an embarrassment to Railway heritage aside. It does have great qualities, and I'm sure these guys review on TAB will be mostly positive. I Love the franchise, but that doesn't stop me realising that its stepped away from its 100% Railway accurate routes and has been much more focused on educational morals with the reminder or railways written around it and maybe used as a plot device here and there.
The Leader Class was definitely not designed for its appearance. If you didn’t like the Austerity, then the Leader is no better.
12:49 Aw I like those engines. They were my first british steam engine i saw in real life.
17:28 "The record looks less and less likely to ever be broken."
I and the PRR T1 locomotive trust sees that as a challenge.
can not wait for the Sole S.L.I.P of the Caledonian 812 ^_^
You've brought some memories back for me with this video. You caught me at 16:03 with 60007 - I thank you lol
One of my favorites was the J94's. They were strong, common, and good all-around war designs. Also: their chuffing's so unique, you hardly find any other tankies that sound like it.
Since this list is for preserved locomotives, I'm going to give my list of locomotives that (although passed into history) I would love to see a replica built:
1. GCR Class 9F (later LNER Class N5): Although this may come off as a weird choice, the N5's (to me at least) work well with being 19th Century tank engines.
2. LMS Compound 4-4-0: While the original Midland Railway 1000 Class is preserved, I would love to see an LMS 4P Compound locomotive in action. Who knows, maybe this replica and Midland Compound 1000 can double head trains together!
3. GNR 521 Class (later LNER Class J6): Just look at these engines! *squeaky toy noises* They're small and adorable looking. It feels like you could have one as a pet...if trains were like your pet animal at home.
4. GER Class D81 (later LNER Class J20): I think the engine could work as like a static model, and sit beside the SR Q1 No. C1, because...why not!
5. SR Z class: I wish the Bluebell Railway preserved one of these big boys. They could be really impressive machines to watch in action.
6. LB&SCR E2: *oh no, I mentioned those cursed atrocities around Chris. run* All jokes aside, if a replica was made, WITHOUT all of the crap that makes Chris give the bird to these engines (i.e. Insufficient boiler, Long wheelbase, Rough riding, and Air braking) the replica (I like to think be given the name Thomas Allen) could be what Tophamm would say "really useful engine."
7. LNWR Precursor Tank Class: Having another "Atlantic" Tank Engine in action would be cool. This is why I love Atlantics, they're just cool by design, whether tender engine or tank engine!
All I've said are just my opinions, and if you have a list, what would it be?
I’m glad I’m not the only one who’d love a Precursor Tank new build. They’re very nice looking and were reportedly efficient when initial faults were ironed out. An E2 would be easier to make and easier to fund, but a Precursor Tank would be just as nice to see.
As a big Thomas fan, I'm sorry to see so many of others' comments flipping you off for your disagreements. xD From what I understand, the E2s weren't downright shit, but agreeably to most, rather mediocre. In honesty, even had one made it to preservation, I can't see it having added much interest. They don't look like anything significant, and haven't too much setting them apart to E4 "Birch Grove". Their history is somewhat interesting, but doesn't change my opinion that they're better off left extinct.
Out of curiousity, is there somewhere I can read/watch your thoughts on why TTTE is embarrassing? I'm intrigued to see your points!
In regards to this video, I love your choice of music, especially for the least favourites list. Such a strong "spirited, blunt rant" sort of vibe I get from it!
As for my personal faves, I don't have a top 10, but do particularly endear the Black Fives, the Standard Class 2s, the Standard 9Fs, the A1X Terriers and the Caledonian class 812. Though not steam engines, I also have soft spots for diesels such as the Hymeks and Class 40s, and even the CoBo class 28 despite its problematic engine. I'm very well aware that's off topic, though, so I'll zip it already. :P
Great use of techniques you implemented in this vid, I hope to see more like it in the future.
Thanks that make me happier
Tk Gamer me two
I would recommend the Railway Series and *maybe* the first and second seasons of Thomas and Friends for people who want to go for something more realistic.
i love this video made me chuckle
I'm cheering about the "German Diesel Thingy" :D That "thingy" is basically your pacer, with CLASS ;) Can we expect a "top 10 international steam locomotives" in the very distant future? I'd be interested to know if something German made it on that list. Greetings from Deutschland
LOL! The Flying Hamburger is a Pacer with class! I'm dying here! XD
Difficult one. I would definitly argue for the Prussian P8's, as in purpose that's basically a black five, only older. And even with their controversial background, the class br52's. Just the fact that they were spread out to all of Europe after the war and could just about tackle any job given to them by their new owners make them one of the best steam loco designs ever.
Jappy Both excellent choices, I heartily agree. I would also make a case for the Golsdorf 310's, the express engines that revolutionized the Austro-Hungarian railways. The French also have a fair shout with engines like the Chapelon Super Pacifics, or the 230G 4-6-0's, made famous by one's appearance in "Murder on the Orient Express". And of course, if we go way back, one can't forget the French & German Crampton engines, so much a feature of French railways that "Prende le Crampton" became well known slang even decades after their withdrawal.
It may sound silly but I think the S160s deserve a place on that list
Mallard's world record has never been officially exceeded by a steam locomotive, though the German Class 05 was at least very close: in 1936, two years before Mallard's run, 05 002 had reached 200.4 km/h (124.5 mph) between Hamburg and Berlin. Stoke Bank is long, straight and slightly downhill, whereas the 1936 run of 05 002 took place on a horizontal stretch of track. Unlike Mallard, 05 002 survived the attempt undamaged: on the other hand, its train was only four coaches long (197 tons), whereas Mallard's train was seven coaches (240 tons). Wikipedia `LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard'
Please don't compare your Flying Hamburger with the Pacer !!, for economy the Pacer is a very basic design and does not even have bogies !! Greetings from England, UK.
My dad is loving these DVD's!
I respect your opinions, but I have a book by a southern Fireman and he had quite high praises for the E2s, he did say that one of them used a lot of water on one occasion, but that was going flat out banking n train up a hill, besides that, he said they had good brakes and were good at their jobs. I know things are different on paper to real life, but looking at the "top trumps" facts of the E2s, the later 5 had a slightly greater water capacity than the 57XX class and only a little less tractive effort.
What is the title?
footplate days on the southern I think
JH55000 thank you very much!
your only saying that because your a Thomas fan. thats quite sad really.
JH55000 you didn't happen to create the E2 for TS did you? If so well done sir
I love how people just come here and try to defend the E2's. It's not like they could change Chris's opinions. They just don't understand that the E2's runs like shit in real life.
I do like the 9F I think it is a shame we will never see them on the national network after all a freight loco that has been timed at over 90 is quite impressive.
My top 10 steam locos:
10: SR WC class (Rebuilt)
9: GWR 2800 class
8: LNER A1 (Peppercorn)
7: GWR 0-6-2 Tank (5600)
6: BR Class 8 (71000)
5: LMS Black 5
4: LNER A4 (BR Blue)
3: LMS Duchess (Rebuilt/non-streamlined)
2: GWR King class
1: LMS Royal Scot
Nice selection.
I'm a Swindon fan, but #1 for me is the original Cock o the North mikado... a beast
I understand why tail enthusiasts find Thomas embarrassing and it can be really annoying but for a child growing up in Asia in the 90s, it was our first contact with a steam engine. Apart from the stories my mum told us (she loves trains) about steam engines back in the 1960s to 1970 when she’d watch steam engine thundering down the line in her backyard (she lived by the railway line). For the generation of millennial rail enthusiasts all we had were stories from our parents and Thomas. Not until I was 15 I had the privilege of riding a heritage line in Japan and I finally understood what my mum was talking about. Even though hardcore enthusiasts might hate the mass media nature of Thomas the more young people get interested in trains and their heritage the better chance we have in preserving these wonderful locos for generations to come.
Great List! I would Have Probably Picked the Gresley A1's as Number 1. I know its horrendously unoriginal but I can't help myself from just Adoring Flying Scotsman and his History. Also was Glad to see the 14XXs on your List, Those are without a doubt the best Tank engines in all of the UK.Ok, I know you probably have very valid points and I have no intentions of changing your mind, But I'd like to know why you think Thomas is such a huge embarrassment. Any Thomas Fan will Say that the show between 2003 and 2013 was God Awfully Horrendous, but the early days of the show and The Railway Series Books were Very Very Decent, and The Franchise in General has helped create younger railway enthusiast like me. I Grew up watching Talking Trains before I could appreciate the Actual Machinery. I would like to hear all your arguments against Thomas. (Also, The E2's Were failures but I still do think they have a Charm. I think they do look Better Than Jintys, although I Still Adore Jintys)
you mean they look better than shitties
I wouldn't.
i think the reasoning had to do with what the franchise had become at the time the video came out (which if memory serves me, would be seasons 15-16 ). i dont know the guy so i dont know what his actual thoughts are, but even i had to be embarassed at how far it sunk at that point (its gotten much better since then, but future plans means that might be a question for later). personally, i loved the franchise when i got into it as a kid and its that (plus living within a block of a decently running railroad) that got me into the hobby (and growing up with thomas means an adult's face just lights up like a kid in a toy store when he sees the actual real life basis for the engines)
he is embaressing because he is a BABIES show.
Jared Axton the show is aimed for everyone and it's not really for babies
My favourites are the Britannia 70000 series. I just love them.
What an enjoyable video thank you so much! I must say I agree with your choice for number 1 and thanks for using the Pachelbel Canon in D two of my personal favourites are the O2 tank (LSWR) and the Bulleid Pacifics I actually saw those as a very small boy too young to actually "cop" them but I SAW them Anyway thank you again!
While the A4s are too my favourite disagree, I am a huge fan of every single engine in your top 3 worst. I like the DX Goods, I like the E2 and I even have a soft spot for the Leader.
What do you think about the Class E2 "#110" being built. I heard that they're going to make the coal bunker bigger so its 'better'.
The admin of that group have since spoken on another video stating they didn't really know what they were doing when they set up that page. Highly unlikely that project will happen in that form, given how its been received and how little 'building' has taken place.
My #1 standard gauge steam loco is the 9F
How about the terriers? where would they come on a tank engine list?
BOTTOM
I loved that comment about the Pacers. Bus on wheels?
My all time locomotive is the 4-6-6-4 challenger and my favorite model train I own is a class d 4-6-4 type Hudson
Enjoying your shows immensely. I wish my father was still alive to enjoy them, too.
My Australian list would be
10. The NSWGR 35 class 4-6-0s
9. The Victorian Railways G class Garratts
8.The SAR 700 class 2-8-2s
7. The QGR BB18 1/4 4-6-2s
6. NSWGR D55 class 2-8-0s
5. Victorian Railways H class 4-8-4 or Heavy Harry
4. The SAR 520 class locomotive
3. NSWGR C38 class 4-6-2s
2. Victorian Railways NA class 2-6-2Ts or Puffing Billy
1.Victorian Railways R class 4-6-4 Hudsons
A brilliant video.
Great list Chris. Great shout on the S15 and Lion. Only thing I'd say is it is a shame you never got to ride on the 56XX that was resident on the NYMR, because that made a wonderful fuss going up from Grosmount to Goathland. With a power classification of five they don't really get to prove themselves on the heritage branch lines they are found on.
I like the look of the pannier tank engines, I saw one in a black and white video and wondered about them.
One word to describe this comment section.
Thomas.
Toybonnie 19 agreed
Btw I used to be speedy steam 55 I lost my account password
Toybonnie 19 Its a fucking kids show with trains in. Why is it such a topic for flame wars, like fucking why.
Toybonnie 19 Thomas is cool
Thomas is good show you idiot
@@TheMNrailfan227 I'd say the new Thomas show is shit
As an unrefined Yankee, I would say that the A4, Duchess, and Bullied Pacifics are tied in my mind for the best of British steam. The A4 had blazing speed, the Duchess combined strength with elegance, and the Bullied Pacifics had the aura of working-class grit.
Hey Chris, if you're aware of the LNER Thompson Pacific's, what's your opinions on them?
We don’t speak of those abominations
They’re all extinct.
Those things ruined what was a fantastic class and if it wasn’t for those turds we might have actually had a P2 to savour
@@Evaunit98 Hopefully we'll have a P2 again, since the folks who built Tornado have now turned their attention to the P2 class. While I thoroughly agree with your view of the ugly Thompson pacifics, not to mention his desecration of Gresley's pioneer Great Northern, even without that all the P2's might have gone to scrap anyway since so tragically few LNER locos ended up at Barry scrapyard.
I just got my copy of Going Great Central in the post, I just want to say, fantastic.
Really detailed, and great to see my local train company on it(Chiltern Railways)
You should do more documentaries like this.
Keep up the good work.
I agree with the A4 why should it be beaten but not everyone has that much sense and the new American T1 duplex will some how break the record by 20 mph ?
Well before all were scrap someone went on some trains which they pulled and clocked them going 140 mph average. And with use of modern materials and more realibility, i don't see the possibility to be too far off.
No because I believe that it would ether slip or damage the popet valve gear
@@britanniaolivercromwell5006they aren't useing the poppet valve gear on this engine. There using a more reliable one that won't break as easily, and as for the wheel slipping, it was mostly cause by inexperienced crews and not being too light, that was an issue with the S1, not the T1.
Oh sorry but I still like the a4
that's a very respectful opinion.
Now that he’s been to America I wonder if he will do a top 10 lists on his fav American engines
My top 10:
10. USATC S160
9. 9F
8. Leader (I know, ugly train, but I like the LUL battery locos too, so that makes up for it I guess)
7. GWR City Class
6. E2 Tank (I just like the little things, despite them being no more!)
5. Q1 (Same reason as leader only I love the Q1s just for their weirdness)
4. GT3 (forgotten black five framed Gas Turbine amazingness)
3. J94 (adorable saddle tank engines)
2. SE&CR C class (just lovely looking 0-6-0 and long lived too!)
1. A4 (for the exact same reason Chris pointed out!)
Genuinely just really like what a great presenting job you've done of this sir! - Benji
Plus, I have heard of RARE footage of the E2 Class tank engine working at, what appears to be the docks. And of course, the footage is on RUclips.
Oh it exists
Chris: Lets let the A4s have there world record
PRR T1 Trust: Are you sure about that
All jokes aside love your content.
'Going Great Central' is fantastic Man! Well worth the price! I completely encourage everyone else to buy it and watch it!!!
Really enjoy your work Chris. Cam over June 2012 and spent a day a York for the Raliex, your clip on the City reminded me. Keep it up when you can, it's great.
14:49 what in the plumbing is that! No seriously I want too know.
@Justice Cho thank you! I love weird and interesting designs.
Entertaining as always Chris and impossible to argue with your choice for no 1. They really are beautiful
I could argue about the 30's being the "greatest decade" of the 20th Century (Rise of Hitler, the Depression, the Purges in the USSR, Japanese aggression into east Asia, Labor strife in the UK, the lead up to WWII) but i do have to agree with your points about the A4.
While it would be interesting to argue about, say, the claim to the record (Mallard was going downhill, and damaged itself, while the German BR 05 #002, the previous record holder from 1936 of 124.5 mph, earned its record on level track and without damaging itself but was pulling a lighter train (which could also be argued that Mallard had some help from the weight of it's train pushing it down the grade- ah peas, i set off :) ) I think it is best to leave well enough alone.
As for the E2's....eh, blame Reginald Payne. the Rev. Awdry's design for Thomas looked more like a kitbashed J50 knockoff.
The German 05 was a purpose-built record-attempt loco, while the A4s were built for everyday use, and turned out to excel at hauling heavytrains up what you British regard assteep gradients. My own favourite is the NZR Ja class 4-8-2 (Apart from a brief drive in an Ab, all the locos I've driven are j or Ja class).
And the DeLorean was an underdeveloped show car made for a market which probablydidn't exist.
10. Jubilee
9. Bullied light Pacific
8. Black 5
7. SECR C class
6. Manning Wardle K class
5. 3200 Dukedog
4. 111 Great Bear
3. SR Lord Nelson class
2. BR standard 8
1. GWR Castle class
My favourites are the GWR Castle class and (Australias) NSWR 3801
Ditto200 what about the C38 class as a whole? '01 may be the doyen of the class, but there's 29 more ☺
3801 gives me wood
Would you be interested in doing a top 10 favorite American steam locomotives?
Bit sad William Francis didn't make the list.
Yeah. One of the most successful standard gauge garratt locomotive to run on British metals.
Ausrail. Remember me?😁😁😁
Awesome list, man. Great case for the A4.
the modern thomas is shit but series 1-5 is great.
Aren’t seasons 6-7 classic too. David Mitton, Mike and Junior and even Britt Allcroft (as executive producer) were still around an we’re Duck, both twin pairs, Oliver, Toad, Terence, Stepney and the narrow gauge engines.
@@CW56 7 is classic. season 6 was the last classical season
I totally agree with you Chris, A 4's are so elegant Machines , being an LNER man.
My Favorite One is Princess Elizabeth
And The A4's
your username removes all credibility from your statement.
NINTENDOSH LEGIT that's very true
Yes same
What's your opinions on the H2 and H1 atlantics
This comment section summarised:
● The T1 taking Mallard's record.
- That won't happen and the Americans know it. Also stop trying to brag about it.
● The E2 isn't rubbish & *insert awful insult here*
-The E2's were rubbish, they poorly steamed, were coal and water demanding, and were replaced by the USA dock tanks.
● Other comments about Chris' favourites and people triggered about his opinions
Overall, anyone who falls into either of those comments sections, please understand that this video is opinion based (and fact based E2 wise).
If you're not willing to accept opinions and be civil about it, this isn't the community you should be apart of.
but t1
Yes the T1 won’t break Mallards record there is no way this finicky f*ck will beat the perfect steam locomotives and to the T1 trust why this locomotive and not I don’t know maybe something better than the slipping, finicky abortion that doesn’t seem to work
Hahahahhahaahhaa.
A great series very well done!
Wow, so many people put out by his opinion of the E2. I for one agree with him; E2s weren't all that much to talk about and let's be honest: the only reason you know about E2 tanks is because of the Railway Series and nothing else. The class literally had no legs to stand on.
About the whole speed record bit starting at 17:30: I agree completely. Why would anyone want to attempt to break Mallard's speed record? Mallard herself failed as she broke the record being pushed beyond her physical limitations, and who wants to push an engine that hard when it's hard enough and expensive enough already to repair and maintain one of these beasts. Yet there is one group of blokes here in the states who are building a new steam locomotive for no other reason than to break said record: the T1 Locomotive Trust.
The trust aims to build a PRR 4-4-4-4 T1 over a period of about 20 years then take it to some test track and attempt to break the speed record. Why? Probably something nonsensical like "Cause we're America and we *have* to be the fastest". Hey, I'm American and I'm more than happy to let Mallard keep her record. Having the fastest steam locomotive is not going to prove anything anymore, so why pursue it? Let's not forget that the T1s were awful locomotives. They were fast, but that was their only positive characteristic. They were nightmares to maintain, they were extremely prone to slipping, their frames cracked, they were ugly as sin, and due to several other faults they were retired early. So early in fact that the K4s pacific, the locomotives the T1s were supposed to replace on top link work, outlived all of the T1s and retained their title of top express engines on the PRR. Huh, a design made in 1914 beat out a design from 1942. If that's not pathetic I don't know what is. Also I've heard that this new locomotive is already being preemptively banned from running in certain places in the United States. On top of that, even if that blasted T1 does beat the record, what else is it going to do? Steam simply does not run fast in the USA, and there is almost nowhere outside the Northeast Corridor something like a T1 can show off its only good feature: its high-speed capabilities.
Honestly when I first heard about the project I hoped it was a hoax. Then I hoped it would just go away. Now I'm hoping that I get an overdose of "Schadenfreude" when that stupid thing finally does roll out of the works and it *doesn't* draw the crowds.
david whiting you know many American steam engines beat mallards record the only reason no one found out about one-of the C&O 4-6-4 hitting 132 mph on a troupe trains in world war 2 was because Americas government didn't want the other country's finding out about there fast strong locos
I really like the t1 because of how strong fast and cool the shark nose stream lining
Before I annoy someone. I do not like the prr t1. I think it's ugly. And all the issues she had were enough to end her career short. But I see nothing wrong with trying to prove that steam can go faster even after the end of steam. The fact that it's a divided argument is idiotic. Why would one side try to brag without a loco in the first side. And why would the other side even care if steam can go faster than another ugly steamer (yea I know my bad I like generic coal drag steamers I don't like streamliners pls understand) the fact that people want to better steam technology in the first place should make people excited to see what will happen. So idk. I like to argue and pick neither side. I just like steam
@@justinhicks4897 That argument makes no sense whatever, why would it matter if any other country, ally or enemy, knew about the speed (or otherwise) of American locos? What was anyone else ever going to do about it, and what military purpose would it ever serve? If the C&O had done it, it might have been useful propaganda, that's all.
My favorites are the terriers merchant navy a3s 1400 h2 atlantics and glen douglas
I love steam and Thomas The Tank Engine.
Hannah Gal i also like steam and thomas
9:45 sorry to say this, I love the 14xx and it's my favourite GWR engine, but the fact you said that they are unique due to them not being traced, well the design is credited to the earlier Armstrong 517 class, an almost identical locomotive. I'm sure you even mentioned this in your Slip, could be wrong.
I may be a Great Western Fan but I am also an LSWR, BR STD and Midland Fan too.
1. GWR Castles (MY BAE 'Earl of Ducie' ~ 5054)
2. BR STD 7 'Oliver Cromwell'
3. LSWR T9
4. LSWR M7
5. GWR 14xx
6. GWR County (4-6-0 and 4-4-0)
7. BR STD 5MT
8. LMS 3F 'Jinty'
9. GWR 28xx
10. BR STD 2MT
Thats my opinion...and my choice...whats yours everybody?
St. Gloriana Gaming College
1. LNER A1 (Gresley, NOT Peppercorn)
2. A1 Terrier
3. GWR Pannier Tank
4. A4
5. J94
6. GWR 37xx
7. Fowler 3F
8. Standard 9
9. Bulleid Pacific
10. Black Five
@TheRoarinSpitty
That's unusual, since the GWR and the LSWR were long-time 'enemies' :) But of course you can be a fan of whatever you want.
In LSWR terms, I'd also consider the very distinctive Adams T3 (still extant as no 563), noteworthy for its long-wheelbase Adams bogie and outside cylinders when everything else was inside, and boy does it look racy.
In GWR terms (and I must admit to not being a GWR fan), I've always thought the Dukedogs looked very distinctive and quite a satisfying shape.
Thanks for showing off a clip of 30053! She's one of my favourite engines
Its by no means a British engine, But 3801 is a magnificent piece of kit.
And the Vic Rail 'R' Classes were no slouches either
And the South Australian 520's were pretty rad, as were the Victorian S and H Classes. And the NSW 60 Class Garratts
I can't argue on your #1 favourite, or probably half the others - I love 5MT's and Kings, Castles, etc, but I do like things like the USA tanks and their tender-engine version - the S160. I also very much like the 4MT tank (and YES, I want one in CR blue!), as well as the Caledonian 812 class, as well as some of Brunel's broad gauge stuff.
Keep up the good work Chris!
I would not say that Thomas is embarrassing and more a helpful thing. That has helped heritage railways to keep going and to give them a future. I liked Trainspotting live and it was very good. In my opinion is better than the steam program on BBC 2.
John trainfan101 trainspotting live called the K1 a Black 5 and made us look like fools. Same for Thomas which make us enthusiast seem as little kids. Myself and a few others I know got interest from railways themselves NOT ttte. Railways now don't need or do thomas events because it's a large amount of money felt wasted!
I started to take an intrest because of Thomas and Friends, mind you I live in the states but agree about the post s4 parts of the show are a major embarrassment to railway heritage & railway enthusiasts, I agree about the only reason anyone likes the E2s now, my personal list is.
10. Bulleid Pacifics
9. LNER N7
8. BR 4MT 4-6-0
7. S15s
6. SECR P Class
5. GWR Castle Class
4. Stanier Duchesses
3. GWR Small Prairies
2. GWR Mogul
1. GWR Large Prairies
Thomas and friends big world adventure
Thoroughly enjoyed this and subscribed :)
14:49 WHAT IN THE SWEET MOTHER OF GOD IS THAT
that thing is a Kitson Still Steam-diesel hybrid. Basically, it used a steam engine that used both fuel oil, and the spent heat of a diesel engine to boil water.
I hate it more. It's the ugliest thing that has ever existed
Hating a steam locomotive because it's ugly... It's like being hated at school because you got a lot of acne or you wear "ugly" clothes. How would you feel as a steam engine and others called you ugly because of your design? Pretty upset, right? That's what I thought.
Aw don't make me feel bad mate...how come you're not calling Chris out for criticizing that other engine
@@thereadingg3945 well if its an ugly loco and has no redeeming aspects then you can understand why people hate it. The Q1 is a very ugly locomotive, but it was very powerful and was a great machine overall. It's performance made up for its ugliness. The Leader had no redeeming factors and thus was terrible.
if thomas gets rebooted you need to be the narrator
Enjoyed your film as always, but surprised that the 9Fs didn't make it into your top ten.
At least a Riddles was in there. Also nothing representing the work of Ivatt. Nevermind.
Loved the film though! Best regards from Germany!
10 S&D 7Fs
09 BR 4MT moguls
08 GWR Castles
07 GER Y14 / LNER J15s
06 LNER A2s
05 BR Britannia’s
04 LNER A4s
03 BR 9Fs
02 Hunslet 16 inch
01 GER 1500s / LNER B12
Excellent review Chris :) I love the SDJR 7F's and the Princess Royals, so I was glad to see they were some of your faves. Could you ever do a video of your favourite overseas steam locomotives?
Look, I understand everyone's opinion on the E2. But I completely understand Chris' view on the engine. It's too overrated. He as an adult totally understands the feeling of being associated with Thomas when you tell them you love steam locomotives. It has gone too far.
Awdry did a great job with the books. I enjoyed reading them as a kid. The model series were alright, but after a couple of seasons it went downhill very quick. The mass culture is horrible, the toy production everywhere is just terrible and the fanbase of adults is really smashing a huge crater in locomotive enthusiasm. Yes, many young people got into locomotive enthusiasm because of Thomas, but that doesn't mean it's all good now.
People talking about the E2 having charm and that it doesn't need Thomas to prove that are seriously taking a shit with themselves. Since none were preserved NO ONE would ever think about rebuilding one or even speak about it. If it wasn't for the blue tank engine it would disappear in time and be stuck in old records. It was a horrible engine and not efficient.
I was very ill (appendixes) when I was three years old and my British neighbor (I'm Dutch) brought me a video tape of Thomas Season 1. It was in English and I couldn't understand a word of it, but it certainly created my love for trains. Yes. It means a hell lot to me. But seriously don't get picky on Chris for saying it's shit, because I can totally understand his feelings, and I have to cope with them too, every damn time.
Very well presented with just the right amount of comedy, top notch as always Chris. Although nothing beats a humble jinty for me 😉
is it Just me or is the a4 almost everyones favorite loco?
Not the favourite of maintenance crews.
Not everyones, but i can see why it is many peoples, same with the flying Scotsman.
Well I'm glad the 7f was on that list. Great countdown Chris, and I completely agree with what you said at the beginning of the video and on the bulleid leader. Keep the faith - Callum
There's a group of Yanks who want to take Mallard up on that speed record. They're rebuilding a Pennsylvania Railroad T1 4-4-4-4 duplex, to be operational next decade.
Well, yes and no, no because the majority of rails in the US aren't built to handle high speed anymore, their built to handle very heavy and long freight trains, its also not likely that Amtrak would allow the T1 on the 5% of track they do own. So the chances to actually have a go at it is slim to none. And before any of you start a fight in this guys replys about the record, theres a new one, the fastest PRESERVED steam record, mallards record is now called the official service steam record, the preserved one is currently held by tornado
9:00 Isn’t that the engine
used in the Titfeild Thunderbolt
That got hijacked and
Derailed into that pond?
Least favorites:
Yeah, kind of have to agree about the Taffy Tanks. As GWR machines go, they're a little on the naff side; the big counterweights on the #2 driving wheels always threw me off. And they really only worked around the coal fields of South Wales, ergo the moniker.
I almost wish at least one DX Goods engine had survived, if only so we'd know how truly crap they really were. As it is, they sound like the WWII Liberty Ships: cranked out as fast as they could to do a job until they were sunk or fell apart.
Ah, the Leader. I was wondering when this one would come up. In fact, I can add a Reason #8: THEY DIDN'T SODDING WORK! They didn't work when Bullied tried them under the Southern, they didn't work when BR tried to fix them, and they didn't work when the Irish hired Bullied to make a peat-burning version for them.
... I'm just gonna step back a bit after that E2 rant... and maybe get the popcorn ready to watch the Tumarse fandom devour you alive. This being said, I won't disagree that for a replacement for the A1X Terriers Billington... maybe could have done a bit better.
I'm actually surprised the Bullied Light Pacifics aren't up here too. Okay, there's still a lot of them around and they did get better after BR built them properly, but I remember your video on them and the long list of problems they had (the longest in SLIP history, if memory serves). And come on, any engine that can list "Can catch fire" among its traits can surely be looked on as nothing but one of the worst. Need I bring up the phrase "His firebox was on fire"? That's what I thought.
#1: Yeeep. Saw this one coming a mile away. They're practically technically perfect, they're a national icon for Britain and the 1930's in general, they're just all around awesome.
Okay, clearly I'm the only person in the world who actually kind of likes the Class 142 Pacers. I remember riding one from Preston to Burnley and back and it was brilliant; comfy seats, decent ride comfort, certainly better than the Virgin rubbish on the main lines. The biggest problem I see with them, and what I think is the root of a lot of the hate for them is that they're the right train, but being used for the wrong job. On anything resembling a main line, or even a busy secondary line, they're rubbish; they don't have the passenger capacity to handle heavy rush hour traffic and they're too slow for anything like a commuter run. What they are is a bus on rails, and that's fine. Where they should be working is on tertiary lines, branches serving smaller communities or suburbs that connect with the larger lines. There's a big trend in Britain for rebuilding and reopening branch lines closed by the Beeching cuts (gee, it's almost like annihilating a third of your nation's rail infrastructure, including numerous rural connections, with no attempt at foresight toward continuous population center growth was a BAD idea), and its these lines where the Pacers would be perfect.
I have to say though, that ending was a bit of a downer. Not that I disagree with your points at all; yes, a steam engine breaking Mallard's record today would be a pointless gesture. Back when Mallard set the record, rail transport in general and steam engines in particular meant something very different than it does today. It actually meant something to have a class of engines as fast as Mallard. Nowadays, an attempt to break that record would feel at best like an empty gesture because steam engines aren't regularly used anymore, not in most places on Earth, and at worst it would feel like... almost a spiteful gesture, taking away one of the last truly meaningful unbeaten elements of railway history for no real reason at all. So yes, I understand your points in this ending. Still, bit of a low note to go out on, eh?
well, to play a devil's advocate concerning the record, the debate has gone on for decades and back when steam was still around most of the locos who could legit challenge and/or break the record never really had the opportunity to do so.in the T1 duplex's case, I think the loco (if it gets built) has a lot to prove to the world, so many stereotypes and myths surrounding this class, the fact that 5550 will be based off of 5500, the most successful T1 of the originals will probably tell everyone that with proper handling as well as proper maintenance, this class should've been a design the PRR would be proud of, as far as speed goes, I've always had the belief that American steam doesn't get enough respect, sadly 999 and 7002 kinda hurt my case since their records are exaggerated (you could make a case for PRR E6 460 here too, 115 MPH really? maybe 100 but no more than that) and people praise the A4's for their speed, but come on, some USA steam are just as fast as most of the streaks, and we had about 2, maybe 3 classes that can beat mallard, Milwaukee road class A no.2 reached 112 mph 4 months and 2 weeks before silver link did, and yet silver link was more famous (or is it beloved? not quite sure) and the Milwaukee road only got as far as considering letting the world know how fast the hiawathas really are by proposing a 1 hour timetable between Chicago and Milwaukee, before nixing it due to a "gentleman's agreement " with the Burlington and C&NW. the sad reality is those 3 classes that can upstage mallard were all scrapped in the early to mid '50s. (damn diesels)
also, I really hope you don't think my comment comes off as me whining, I'm really not.
I completely agree, apart from the E2.
Wait, really? The Irish wanted a peat-burning Leader? WTF?
RedEye Nerf Aye, they did indeed. At the time (post-war, early 1950's), Irish motive power was basically a shambles, mostly clapped out Victorian 4-4-0s and a very few diesels. Further, Ireland has no large natural reserves of steam coal (coal with a high sulfur content that will burn hotter and cleaner) nor oil reserves, so importing coal and oil was a great expense the Irish State Railways felt they couldn't afford. They'd experimented with peat-burning engines before with limited success, so in 1951 they hired the recently outed Oliver Bullied to come over and design a modern engine for them that could burn peat and compete with the diesels. What Bullied gave them was No. CC1, basically a slightly improved version of the Leader. It first rolled out in 1957 on the Dublin-Cork line where it proved an instant failure, mostly owing to a lot of the same faults that had plagued the Leader. The Irish Railways abandoned the project in 1958 after Bullied retired. They kept the engine running until 1963, when it was officially withdrawn from service, being broken up in 1965, although its boiler was kept for possible stationary use.
I like the E2s just from the shape of the tanks. The way Thomas is designed on TV makes the extended tanks pointless, but on an actual E2, it was an interesting alternative to a Pannier tank. Stable, while providing some access to the inside motion. Though, I'm immensely surprised that Billington actually intended them to replace the Terriers. And comparing them to the 5600s, at least Billington's engines were balanced. The only comfortable way to drive an engine with that much overhang is in reverse! I don't care if their tank engines, you can't see that much with the coal bunker behind you.
As for the DXs, they're disappearance could either be from the Scrap & Build policy, or the fact that their the only engines I've seen in photos with wooden brakes and literally no brakes whatsoever. WHY?!
Also, about the steam speed record being broken...even if T1 5550 doesn't break it, it'll be great seeing an actual non-articulated duplex.
Great Video Chris! :)
reasons why the pacer would be on my top 10 list.
1. its a bus
2. it looks cool and has done okay
3. is a small DMU that basically can go any where almost
4. it looks like it has some cool history
Goods Van Productions I'm sorry but I hate the pacer so I must hate you as well it's engine men's code also one got squished by a class 66 it was awesome because no one was in it
Pretty good list. I liked seeing the Black 5s, the Princess Royals, and City of Truro (and I kind of had a feeling you'd pick the LNER A4s as #1). And as for that joke at 2:51, sorry, but you've brought it upon yourself (snicker).
Also, just to ask, if you were to do one or more top 10s for your channel, what do you think you'd do it (or them) on?
LOL well... BBC did have that coming to be fair.. there is only one thing I can say.. Just look at her... that was the only highlight of that BBC program.
I had to do everything for them except present the show!! I'm so glad there not coming to didcot again, they left the maps behind and we used them for lighting up material the next day, that's the only perk of there " visit"
Well least Didcot got something useful out of it... recycling lol
The BBC has redeemed themselves with Full Steam Ahead though presented by the Victorian Farm team. A much better programme by any measure, its educational, fun, engaging and doesn't take the wee wee like Trainspotting Live.
I liked Trainspotting live and it was very good. In my opinion is better than Full Steam Ahead. As it was not limited just steam and had diesels and electrics. I am more into actually trains than what the effects the railways had and there is nothing wrong with spotting for trains.
John trainfan101 For me its the transformation effect railways have that make them so interesting.
A hard choice, but I think that overall my favourite steam engine would have to be GWR Small Prairie Tanks. I have always had a particular soft spot for tank engines, and the Small Prairies. I love the look of them, I love the sound of that western chime whistle and the exhaust beat from those huge cylinders. I love how they look so at home on a western branch line or on a suburban service, and especially on goods trains. They were some of the most versatile engines built by the GWR. Although they were a power class C/4MT, they had yellow route availability. A reasonably powerful engine that can go almost anywhere on the network? Sounds good to me. They're also almost as powerful as their bigger cousins the Large Prairies, but they could go further afield, and those smaller driving wheels mean that they would handle hills almost as well. These things were fast too, topping out and around 70 miles an hour. These things used to basically race Jubilees on the mainline with timed runs. A small western tank engine racing against a midland Express engine? You can't much more awesome than that for steam engines. Yes they had minor faults and issues such as rocking at lower speeds because of the force of the cylinders and lubricating the joints wasn't easy, but none of that stopped them from being one of the GWR's greatest designs
Am I the only one who enjoyed Trainspotting Live, even if it was a little condescending?
I liked it
I didn't think it was as bad as everyone claims. But then 1. I only watched the first episode, and 2. I'm a know-nothing American.
I watched one episode. The old man presenter (I don't know their names) mistook a Gresley k4 for a black five. the lady gave a mathematical equation on the simple question of why diesels replaced steam. and the overenthusiastic guy they send out to spot trains had no regard for any other spotters, or people in general, on the platform. I wasn't exactly overwhelmed.
it was a brave attempt but it was utterly dreadful and made rail enthusiasts look like wierdos
full steam ahead was on the other hand one of the best programs i have seen for a long time
Ewoutro Productions you accuse them of that yet you just called the K1 a K4. The K4 has been out of service for over a year now!
One of my favourites are the GWR steam railmotor.