One cylinder has now been refitted to the carriage. Both gas tanks have been cleaned and painted. One appears to be the original type, being of rivetted construction, the other is a replacement and is welded. The older one is very thin in places but whilst we are considering putting a working gas lighting installation back into the coach the gas tanks will not be used for gas storage so a cosmetic repair to the hole which appeared during cleaning will be adequate. It is hoped to start progressing the restoration of the teak panelling, doors, droplights and ironmongery soon and the exterior of the vehicle should, if all goes according to programme, be completed by August 2000.
Work can then start on the interior.
S1469 A couple of members are continuing to carry out further preparation work on the ceiling panels of the second saloon prior to repainting them. Scammell Mechanical Horse Some of the paintwork on the rear of the timber cab was found to be blistered and flaking, although quite new, so this is being rubbed down for repainting. Assessment of the various engine parts has now been carried out and a decision made as to which to use to build a replacement engine. At present some gaskets are awaited and once obtained assembly will progress quickly. When the vehicle is running satisfactorily it will be necessary to turn our attention to giving it a trailer to haul.