Overhaul update
Much work is currently centred about the frames’ imminent return to the wheels and the preparations needed for this event. This is the right hand rear, with several pieces missing, notably the cab running steps. This is to allow the jack beam access to the hind buffer beam to perform the initial lift.
The intermediate and leading coupled wheels, with the axleboxes and spring gear in course of fitment. Note the machined phosphor bronze faces and sides to horn cheek contact areas.
The right hand trailing box being fitted. The eye at the top allowed it to be dropped on to the axle journal. Note again the phosphor bronze linings. The three visible studs - there are four of them - locate the dust cover to the inside of the box, essential in an area where ash and cinders are plentiful. The hole at the bottom of the box is for the transfer bracket, which will locate to the bracket and pin seen at the top of the spring, bottom of photo.
An assembled axlebox with the spring in place below it; the piece in between is the horn clip which bolts to the bottom of the axlebox guides on the frames. Also in place is the dust cover and, seen below the axle is the filler for the underkeep. Although in place, this is very difficult to see.
Many parts have been brought out of storage and grit blasted by contractors to remove all old paint and rust, and then transferred to the paint shop. At the bottom of the photo are the boiler bands and beyond them some of the firebox cladding sheets.
To their right is one section of front foot framing, which drops the running plate down to buffer beam level. Further right are the front running steps, also seen in close up.
These are mostly pieces of boiler cladding, in primer and awaiting their first undercoat.
There are many parts from the Hall also in the shop receiving similar treatment. We hope not to finish up with too many green bits!
In the boiler shop, the job of fitting the outer backplate goes on.
With the new section in position, many holes drilled and temporary bolts fitted.
Attaching it to the foundation ring and firebox side sheets.
Parts of the original side sheets have been cut away to allow access for the boilersmith to weld the new and old sections together behind the normal rear end of the sides.
The missing parts will be made good afterwards.
The joint across the rear of the firebox. The nuts and bolts attach the new section to a supplementary plate inside the actual backplate, so holding it firmly in place. Note that both plates have been ‘vee’d’ to allow maximum penetration of the steels’ thickness during welding.