The Preservation Years - 2001
37215 performed very well throughout 2001 with hardly a fault to mention and bore the brunt of the GWR's class 37 requirements following the failure of 37324. Services covered included regular passenger workings on scheduled GWR services as well as gala events, several Diesel Driver Experience courses, a freight charter, some 'Wine & Dine' lunchtime specials and a couple of appearances as 'Diesel' during the Friends of Thomas events. One 'first' was on Saturday 12th May when the locomotive and the luxury Elegant Excursions dining train were hired for the wedding reception of Growler Group founder member Mark Simms and his bride Linda. The locomotive was decked out with several headboards and white ribbons.
At the end of the year almost 900 engine hours had been accumulated since restoration was completed in mid 1998.
On the maintenance front most efforts has been directed at the overhaul and testing of spare components with fan drive boxes, traction motor blowers, air compressors and vacuum exhausters all receiving attention. New seals, brushes and other components have been fitted where necessary. A test bench has also been constructed on which the electrical items can be bolted down and tested. 
37215 descends from Greet tunnel into Winchcombe on 28/12/01. Photo by Bruce Garbutt
We have spent some considerable time and effort laying a concrete plinth outside of the spares container and have erected a swing arm, from which a one tonne block and chain have been mounted. This is particularly useful when unloading components from wagons and vans. A Concrete section garage has also been installed for use as a battery storage area. Inside the container, further shelving has been installed.
A second hand steam cleaner has been coaxed back into life and has proved incredibly effective at removing oil, grease and dirt from components requiring repairs.
37215 passes Hailes Abbey on 28/12/01. Photo by Bruce Garbutt
No.1 vacuum exhauster has proved problematic on several occasions during the year and had required some of its brush gear to be cleaned and freed off on a number of occasions. An Oil leak on the top air compressor is also starting to become a nuisance and will probably require removal for attention during 2002.
Two events during the year required plenty of keen and willing volunteers. The first was a serious effort at washing the loco carried out during the Spring which made a tremendous difference to its appearance. The paintwork looks almost as good as new even after three years of siting outside in the typical Cotswold weather. The second job carried out during the autumn was to completely renew all of the brake blocks which had worn considerably. Hopefully this will mean another few years will have to pass before this task is repeated.
Plans for 2002 included the refitting of the 1970/80's style domino headcodes to replace the existing four character blinds. This will give the loco quite a different front end look.