Have made a start on rebuilding the chassis.

As some modifications had to be made to change from two cylinders to
three, the opportunity was taken to make new chassis sides with the
increased height over the horn slots to give a bit more strength to
the frames. The steel used is 2.5mm thick (Reeves no longer stock a
suitable width in imperial sizes) so the width of the frame stretchers
has been reduced slightly to allow for the thicker material.(I've
added a photo to the album showing the chassis so far).

The driving wheels have been removed from the axles (fortunately they
were only press fitted and not loctited) as they were originally
quartered at 90 degrees for two cylinders. They will have to be set at
120 degrees for the new three cylinder layout. I'll also machine the
'scale' raised bosses around the axle and crankpin which has not been
done.

I think most of the motion work will have to be re-done due to poor
fits and finish etc. The cylinders are particularly bad, especially
the valve ports which are a bit of a mess. I'm hoping to salvage the
cylinder castings by careful re-machining. There is plenty of metal
left to re-finish the bores but this may mean making new end covers.
The ports are going to be the biggest problem. I think the easiest way
(apart from buying a new set of castings!) will be to machine a recess
in the port face removing the old ports and then braze a piece of
bronze into the recess. The ports can then be re-machined as normal.

It looks as though this project is going to be a lot more work than I
thought!

I've just received the castings and drawings for 'Victoria', LBSC's
Southern tank loco. Apparently the full size drawings are no longer
available so I'll redraw them on Autocad. If anyone ever needs a copy
I'll then be able to supply them with a file or a hardcopy.

John