Overhaul update

The rear of the loco with the new frame extensions permanently welded in place, and all dragbox components once again removed. When the time comes - soon - for permanent attachment they will be riveted in place. The replacement buffer beam is on the ground.

The left hand side joint between old and new frame sections. The weld must stand proud of the sections.

The right hand side joints between old and new, these must be ground flush where other sections, such as the dragbox, make contact.

This is the lower horizontal part of the dragbox, here seen upside down. All flanges to attach it to the frames are now finish welded.

The upper dragbox horizontal section complete with the four spacers to the lower section are in the milling machine having the side flanges trued up. The heat generated during the welding process always introduces slight distortions; this will return everything back to true.

It is expected that, during the next few weeks, the loco will visit the wheel drop to have the trailing coupled axle dropped out. Apart from making her an 0-4-0, this will allow access to the rivets securing this frame stretcher. Once removed, its replacement is almost ready for fitment.

Coupling and connecting rods with their rear sides painted to ease cleaning in future. These are actually for 75069, but 13268’s rods will be similarly treated. The radius rod though does belong to our engine, and it might be just possible to make out the new phosphor-bronze die block in the slot at the trailing (left hand) end.