The underframe was then stripped down, and repairs made to the ends of the timber solebars, and both headstocks replaced. The most expensive part so far has been replacement of the steel flitch-plates along the outside of the underframe, requiring many holes drilled in precise places. The inner flitch plates, shorter sections, were in better condition and have been repaired as necessary and refitted.
Since the photo above was taken in March, the progress has been on two fronts; one team is refitting and adapting the brakes for a dual vacuum/air system whilst another team is preparing timber for the base of the body.
Above left: The van in the course of being dismantled (March 2007)
Above right: The underframe after removal of the body, about to be lifted from its wheels (July 2007) (Photos: Jim Hewett)
Above left: The van's underframe - this photo shows the generally good condition of the underframe timbers (May 2007)
Above right: The solebars stripped of all brake gear, with the wheels removed (July 2007)
Below left: The new ends grafted onto the solebars (Nov 2007)
Below right: The new steel flitch plates drilled and ready for cleaning, painting and fitting (Jan 2008) (Photos: Dave Clarke)
The photos below show that the doors and external panelling have been removed, and that much of the internal planking has also been numbered up, and some of that removed.
Over the last few months the framework of the temporary building which is to house the van during its overhaul has been completed. It still awaits its external covering, but work has started on the van itself, which is still under its tarpaulin.
The Thursday Gang have removed the external doors and cleared the interior. As much evidence about the van's history as possible is being gathered whilst dismantling of the interior starts.
Funding for the project is provided thanks to a bequest left to the Bluebell Railway Trust for that specific purpose.
Last updated 23 May 2008 by Richard Salmon