Bespoke Tension Bracing Systems for Iconic Vampire Rollercoaster Refurbishment

Brooks Forgings Ltd is proud to announce the successful manufacture and supply of bespoke tension system components in support of our clients' restoration of the iconic Vampire rollercoaster at Chessington World of Adventures.

As one of the UK’s most beloved hanging coasters, the Vampire is said to be one of only a few remaining Arrow Dynamics suspended swinging coasters in operation globally.

We supplied a total of 50 tension rod sets manufactured in varying lengths to accommodate different structural spans within the ride’s framework, particularly along the lift hills.

Digital illustration of one of the lift hills on the iconic Vampire rollercoaster at Chessington World of Adventures

Digital illustration of one of the lift hills on the iconic Vampire rollercoaster at Chessington World of Adventures

Each set includes one long and one short M20 threaded tie rod, with a forged clevis at each end, as well as a single forged open-body hexagon turnbuckle with lock nuts. This setup allows for precise tension adjustment during installation and future maintenance. Spacer washers were also provided to reduce the clevis jaw opening, ensuring a secure attachment to any existing mounting plates.

M20 Tie rods were manufactured in varying lengths to suit specific structural spans within the framework, particularly the lift hills

M20 Tie rods were manufactured in varying lengths to suit specific structural spans within the framework, particularly the lift hills

Forged clevis ends were supplied to replace the original fabricated ends previously used on the coaster

Forged turnbuckles and lock nuts were also supplied as part of the overall package

To honour the Vampire’s distinctive gothic-industrial appearance, almost all components were supplied in a self-colour finish. This ensures that the new components will blend seamlessly with the existing structure.

By combining British manufacturing heritage with modern quality standards, Brooks Forgings remains a trusted partner for engineering firms operating across the leisure and infrastructure sectors worldwide.

If you require tension system components for your latest project, please get in touch.