Overhaul update
The boiler passed its out-of-frames steam test on 19th June 2023 and now the task of getting the engine ready for traffic has begun in earnest.
The boiler cladding is to be fitted before the boiler is dropped into the frames. A start has been made on this horrible job and the firebox cladding is complete.
Lagging in place on the front boiler section.
Unfortunately, the cladding sheet wouldn’t sit right on top of this so the lagging was removed and the cladding temporarily attached to iron out the issues. It will be removed again for a second try at fitting the lagging.
Part of the problem is that some pipes run below the cladding and emerge through holes in it. Needless to say, these have to line up.
Cab roof interiors were white, at least they were white until the first fire was lit. 2968’s receives a coat of varnish.
The upper interior cab panels were ‘scumbled’, i.e. wood grained. Ronan got creative and included knotholes, possibly not part of the original LMS specification!
The tender exterior painting is complete so attention has moved to other areas, including the cab area.