The last of the top coats of black paint were applied to the top half of the hind engine unit with very pleasing results. The entire locomotive is looking almost like ex-works condition and in fact even better. The team also took time to clean down and paint the newly installed buffers. So in essence we have been from front to back in just four short years. Pity about all those bits in the middle. Now that we are again in the middle(the boiler cradle) the new drivers side cab sub floor was pre drilled using the old section as a template. A trial fit confirmed all was well and about 30 half inch holes where drill through ready for final fitting.
The brake systems rebuild was helped along with the final fitting of the flexible pipes that bridge from the engine units to the cradle. It was good to see the old replaced with new without compromise to historical design. Not much has changed in 60 years with regard to flexible hoses. The drivers side brake stand has been completely rebuilt with all new copper pipes and fittings including all four feed valves. Paul Nowland continued with the rebuild of the automatic and independent brake valves.
Gavin and new mate Tristan installed four more super heater elements. Probably not the best initiation but at least we only have sixteen to go! More tee bolts will need to be sourced before we can complete the element installation.
Alan Gardner
