This photo from Dave Clarke shows the dry-run assembly of all the bottom side timbers (each in three parts), the bottom ends (sides and ends made from utile to replace the original mahogany - seen along-side), and the new floor transoms (iroko).
The remainder of the coach body, which can now be re-erected, is in much better condition, and most of the original material is good enough to be re-used - the overhauled coach ends can be seen stacked up on the other side of the shed.
In October the shortened SR Van underframe was wheeled into the works, and the reconstruction of the coach floor, using new timber could proceed. The mortices are just being cut in the new side and end timbers.
Since the last report, the roof timbers have all been repaired and repainted, and repairs are being undertaken to the mahogany external panelling, which it is hoped can be re-used.
Here the excellent condition of the end structure can be seen, receiving a few minor repairs, together with another section of body-side on the further bench.
The timber (Utile) for the new bottom sides has arrived (not seen in this photo); it is in sections which will be spliced together to make the required length.
Having carefully numbered every component, the body has been dismantled, as seen in this photo taken by Nick Beck at the end of November. Much of the timber is re-usable, including the roof. The bottom sides need to be replaced, but the bottom ends are probably good enough to be re-used. The new floor will be constructed on the new underframe once the components have been prepared.
A couple of weeks before, the ends were still standing. They are in very good condition, and only require minor repairs.
The carriage body entered the workshops on 22nd July 2004, and John and Sheina Foulkes started work on it on the evening of 26th July, the first task being a complete photographic record of the vehicle as it stands.
The only work undertaken so far on this carriage is the preparation of an underframe for it. A Southern Railway van underframe, formerly belonging to SR CCT No.2411 (later DS 70249), has had 6ft cut off one end, and the structure and w-irons/hornguides moved down to new positions.
Last updated 31 January 2006 by Richard Salmon