A further update on the frames

Some more information and pictures

Evidence of the non-destructive testing (Photo: Clive Emsley)

Some of the areas of non-destructive testing are shown in the picture above.  The testing involves the application of a penetrating fluid that is left for a short while before being wiped off and a developer applied.  If there are any cracks the developer will draw out the penetrating fluid, which then becomes a visible line on the surface.

The crack on the left hand side marked out ready for grinding and welding (Photo: Clive Emsley)

The known crack was confirmed as (fortunately) the only one on the frames. This has been marked ready for it to be ground out and filled with weld by a skilled welder.

The right side of the frames showing the approximate cut line (photo: Clive Emsley)

The approximate positions of the cut to remove the wasted rear end of the frames have been marked in chalk these marks are in the optimum position to allow for the corroded material to be removed and to make the strongest joint possible. The cut on the left side will be slightly different owing to a larger area of corrosion.

The left of the frames showing the longer area which needs to be cut out (Photo: Clive Emsley) 

A start has also been made on cleaning up and painting the inside of the frames. This has involved degreasing, scraping, and needle gunning before being given a coat of red oxide paint.

The inside of the frames at the front end showing the motion stretcher and left side (Photo: Clive Emsley)

During the cleaning of the frames the markings above were uncovered (Photo: Clive Emsley) 

The marks seen in the picture above were uncovered during the cleaning of the frames.  They are over the axle box on the left hand side.  It is not certain what they refer to, but it is suspected that the A refers to Ashford, the P for the class of loco and the number could either be a drawing number or possibly an order number.  We do not have any idea what the symbol and number above refers to.