Autumn Progress
It has been far too long since a work update was posted on the website. The main project has continued to be W86500. The vehicle is now outdoors again and has had its 1956 Crimson paintwork completed.
The last few months have seen most of the fittings removed from the outside of the vehicle being refitted following restoration. These items include the rain strips (located on the roof above the four side doors), roof vents, bump stops (rubber pads which stop the side doors opening more than 180 degrees and hitting the side of the vehicle), handrails, and chalk boards (located on the ends of the bodysides). Before departing the shed the vehicle’s bogies and running gear also received their final coat of gloss black.
With the exterior completed, some minor restoration has been carried out internally. Firstly, the missing bodyside planking (where they required removal for welding/glass replacement) was refitted. The ceilings and walls were then quickly scraped of loose paint to create a surface suitable for painting, full restoration not being required as the interior will be loaded with spares and therefore not viewable.
Work has concentrated on these smaller items, mainly due to the
herculean effort required whilst the vehicle was taking valuable time indoors. Members have therefore had a well earned rest during part of the autumn.
Window glass, brake testing, interior door reassembly and interior ceiling/wall/floor repainting is now all that remains before the project is completed. It is hoped for an entry into service in early 2012.
In other news, half of the Departmental Class 101 unit returned briefly to Cheddleton during October to have its generator removed for further use on the railway. Although returned to storage the vehicle is expected back for final stripping prior to cutting this winter.
The running vehicles have now finished their running season after a successful Ghost Train event. The set has been prepared for winter by means of some battery and antifreeze checks. A minor vacuum leak is also being investigated which so far has involved the removal and refurbishment of one of the drivers brake valves. However the problem is still present so other components are to be scrutinised over the winter. A full exam for the set is also scheduled before the 2012 season.
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