I have a problem and hope somebody experienced with these engines can
help. In the process of making two very early Carson LNWR Experiment
4-6-0s into one good one I discovered that the frames I want to use
are closer together and the back of the boiler will not fit between
them.

I would like to file just half a millimetre from each side of the
brass casting which forms the back of the boiler. Is this casting
hollow? Would I be in danger of going through to the waterspace? It
is only the bottom 1/4in that I want to file.

Any advise would be gratefully received, and any advice on these
engines in general - weaknesses, tips for improving performance etc.
It has a rather nice brass casting for screw reverse, but in practice
is this worthwhile, or do engines of this size work best in full gear?

Thanks,

Mike