Work continues on 507001 at Derby

Posted on 15th May 2025 at 7:10 pm

Over the past few weeks, there has been plenty of activity at 507001's current home at Litchurch Lane. Here's a short summary of what has been happening, as we work to get the unit ready for its appearance at The Greatest Gathering in August.

MA set repairs

The Motor Alternator (MA) is an important piece of equipment aboard 507001. It translates the 750V traction supply to lower voltages, suitable for safely running systems such as the heating, lighting and battery charging.

The MA set on board 507001 had been malfunctioning just prior to the unit's withdrawal from service. With the assistance of the test team at Alstom, we were able to test the MA and trace the problem to a faulty control card. With the card replaced, the MA now gave the expected results when tested.

Picture showing test equipment connected to 507001

Air system checks

Many onboard systems, including the sliding doors, brakes and horn, need a supply of air to operate. Normally this is provided by the onboard compressor, but in the absence of power to the train, we can connect an external compressor to pump air into the train for testing purposes.

The testing has identified a number of leaks and we are working on a plan to repair or replace components as necessary.

Picture showing two members of Team 507 working on the air systems

Shoegear replacement

Whenever a 507 or 508 had to travel beyond the Merseyrail network, the shoegear was removed to avoid damage to the train or trackside equipment. 507001 was no exception, and prior to its final trip to Newport on 23rd January, its third rail shoes were removed and stored on board.

We're pleased to share that the shoegear has now been refitted and our third rail EMU now has third rail capability once more!

View of 507001 bogie with shoegear refitted, some tools still visible on the ground nearby

Thanks to the team at Alstom for their assistance with all the above.

More details of the motor alternator repairs were shared in our newsletter, released to members last month. Full details of the air system and shoegear work will be in our next newsletter, due out in the summer. So, for the inside scoop on all things happening with 507001, sign up as a member today!