Extra Update Saturday 9th May 2015

Monumentous step forward in the restoration of 27

27s cylinders being removed Photo: J. Parker

A monumental step was taken yesterday when the cylinder block was removed from the frames of the 105 year old SECR locomotive No.27. The picture above captures the moment when the cylinders were lifted clear of the frames.  This follows a few weeks of removing fitted bolts that were located in the 12 holes on each side to keep the cylinders firmly in place.

This is the last major part of the stripping down of the locomotive and work will start in earnest on the frames shortly.  It is likely that the cylinder block will be split into its two component parts in the not too distant future just to confirm that we will need a new set cast and to aid the design of a pattern for casting the new block.  Once a new block is cast, it should last another 100 years hopefully!

Please come back to see more pictures in a few days time!