Following the re-fitting of body skirts to each end and the removal of headlights and aerial fittings, the last 3 months have been focussed on the rest of the body. Although it means a lot more work in the short term, the decision was taken early on to strip the exterior of the loco back to bare metal to remove any corrosion. This will be followed by re-filling where required before the application of primer, undercoat and top coats, as it was felt that this would ensure maximum longevity for both paintwork and the bodyshell underneath. Coupled with the investment in our new shed, this will help ensure a long life.
After several months of needle gunning and sanding, all West Coast Railways maroon paint has been removed and a coat of primer applied to the noses and bodysides. The roof has just been started upon in early August as has the long job of filling the bodysides ready for painting. Continue reading
