We are pleased to report that work on the repairs to FR 20’s motion has been progressing well at Williton, courtesy of West Somerset Restoration, following the fusion welding of the right-hand piston head and cylinder cover. The piston head has now been reunited with the piston rod and both cross head cotters fitted after the necessary machining. It is planned to reassemble the motion on FR 20 at Blaenavon this Wednesday after which the locomotive will undergo an in-steam test.
Back at Preston work has been progressing steadily on the overhaul of Great Western 0-6-2T No. 5643. We were pleased to be joined by Jonathan Dixon who was given the task of cleaning down part of the frames.
Jon has not been the only member working on this task and the results so far can be seen above.
Following the issue of a new cup wire brush to Fred last week, he has been making best use of it by removing old paint and rust from the reservoir on 5643’s vacuum brake system.
Bob Thomson has continued his work on 5643’s regulator valve.
Keith is seen here removing some stubborn nuts from one of 5643’ radial spring hangers.
Finally, work hasn’t stopped on Great Eastern Railway royal saloon No. 5. Alison has now managed to make contact with the carpet supplier and we hope to see the carpet fitted shortly.