We are back after a holiday break, but that doesn’t mean to say that things have been at a standstill.
Firstly, FR 20’s front right hand cylinder cover and piston head should now be back at Williton after repair, for machining. We have the above photograph, courtesy of West Somerset Restoration of one of the old crosshead cotters (left) and a new crosshead cotter fitted snugly into place. So things are progressing with the repair and re-assembly of FR 20. This has obviously given the Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway confidence to advertise FR 20’s participation in their three-day Gala on the 8th-10th September.
Back at Preston the dismantling of GWR 0-6-2T No. 5643, in connection with its ten-year boiler overhaul, has continued with the removal of its vacuum cylinder, which has been plucked out from within the frames.
Sam is seen here working to remove one of the radial wheel springs.
Meanwhile Fred has once again been busy removing old paint and dirt from components. As can be seen here, he doesn’t ask for a new cup wire brush until the old brush is completely bald!
Work has also continued apace on the completion of the restoration of Great Eastern Railway royal saloon No. 5. Anne and Phil Burton have been working on upholstering the guard’s compartment.
Whilst John Davies and Tim have been busy fitting the remainder of the chenille on the side panels of the east saloon and corridor.
Sam has completed the wiring of the lights and Phil Bell has started to lay the linoleum on the kitchen floor. John Dixon has been removing old wood and nails from the corridor floor.
He has then commenced the job of laying a plywood base in readiness for the fitting of the new carpet.
Finally, FRT Members should now be receiving the latest edition of The Iron Horse magazine.