21st and 22nd - North end nearly finished

Another 2 day effort from the metalwork team, the aim being to have the main structure 'North End' finished.  We cannot all get in the right place at once, so we do dodge about doing other fixes so as not to waste any time.

A somewhat small group at mid morning tea break.

Bryan proceeded to make sure the crash pillars and buffer plate were all clean enough for the new end panel.

Some discussion with Rex about captive nuts, before the panel goes on.

A request was made to install 2 extra floor bearers, so Derek is painting the underside ready to be welded tomorrow.

Ken A. is welding a new section of outer skin up to the door frame. New lower skirt panels will be integrated with this vertical panel ..... watch this space.

Rex is putting finishing touches to a Roof/Cant rail repair.

Dave A. in the paintshop.

That was Wednesday ........

[Photo : Dave C.]   It was a good day for continuing the first coat of varnish on CK 16221. The entire bottom section below the lower line was initially given a very light sand with 240 paper and then varnished by Bob K., with Dave C. completing the job when Bob had to leave for the day.

[Photo : Dave C.]  16221 from the north end.

[Photo : Dave C.]   Pam works on the initial lettering for the Upholstery Shop board. A second coat of cream will complete the job. The Mess Room board lettering had received its second coat earlier in the day. Some extra paint on the frames and all five will be ready to hang. It will be quite a transformation for the lobby area.

I thought it appropriate to show another team at work ......

With Maurice carrying on from yesterday, painting hinges.

Dave H. always ready with a smile, sanding a panel ( sorry not sure what it is).

One of the two new floor bearers welded into position, Derek can now proceed with new floor panels.

Bryan very kindly offered to paint them, as I said previously this is how we keep out of each others way.

Simon is working in 16221, but here is preparing (not sure what) to go in the carriage. We knew he was in there, as we could hear persuasion instruments in use.

I ventured into the Barn for some steel section and was met by this rather unusual scene. An empty 'Jack Road'.

Evidence of Ian on a dirty job!

Rex is using an in house made jig for drilling holes in floor bearers, this means they are always in the right place.

Ken R. is preparing the South End for re-fitting of the corridor connection.

And so the main event for the team, we must be getting good at this as all the measurements were spot on. With it clamped in position welding can commence.

It looks a bit spotty, but it's there to stay. 

We intend to be in next Wednesday and fit the other side.

Many thanks to Dave C. for his photos and text.

It just leaves me to stay from us all to our readers, A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.