31463
Since our last update prep work for the roof sections to be reunited with the loco was completed and these have been refitted. Work focused on reconnecting the cooling, fuel and electrical systems. The engine had an oil change and after final checks were completed the power unit was started. So far the engine has run a few times, starting at minute and the time has slowly been increased. This is so the temperature of the bearings can be checked. I am pleased to report the temperature of the bearings are all even and correct and oil pressure is good. We will continue running tests soon.
At the moment we are focusing on finishing bolting the roof sections down, as you may remember various sections over the roof sections have had new steel fitted. This has put a few holes out of alignment so we sorting these issues out.
We have also been looking at what is required to get the brake frame back into position in the boiler compartment. We found some of the body skin had had rotted through behind where the frame lives so we cut this out, replaced it and painted it in primer. We got out from our stores the air pipes, electrical conduit and air tank. Looking at photos we took when the brake frame was removed and on 31210 we were able to confirm we had all the pipes and conduit. Some of this had been cleaned and repainted and some hadn’t so we have set about cleaning and painting these bits.
GCR & GCRN 125th Anniversary
On the 16 and 17 March for the GCR & GCRN 125th Anniversary Open Weekend 31210 was on display in front of no. 1 shed with steps along side to look at the cab. 31463 was on display inside no. 1 shed with doors open for public to see inside. 1705 was on display at Quorn with 9F 92214 and test car 2, all open for visits.
Ruddington Photo Charter
31210 and 31235 have been taking part in a private photo charter. 31210 was in front of Ruddington signal box with some dog fish wagons and 31235 was in front of no. 1 shed with a number of other locos. We have some photos of 210 during the photo shoot and 210 and 235 in front of no. 1 shed.
