The 4253 Locomotive Company Ltd have posted their latest update detailing the work carried out in January 2022.

Great Western Railway 4200 Class No.4253

Turning attention to the cylinder covers, the worn copper sealing rings have been removed. Following cleaning of the groove, the new seals were tapped into place. Once is place, the covers are offered up and tighten to the cylinder block, removed to check to see if the seals are sitting right, if so they can be reattached. Next step was to clean and prepare for painting the covers.

Machining of a bush for the vacuum pump operating rod and a sections of the regulator has taken place. The handbrake operating screw has received a new cotter pin and washer.

At Heritage Boiler Steam Services, the threads for the flue tube holes have been recut in the firebox, along with fitting the first steel and copper stays.

Great Western Railway 5600 Class No.5568

Majority of the work carried out in January 2022 on 5668 has been to the water tanks which run along side the boiler. Rivets have been fitted to the inner rear panel, back panel and floor. Involving several members of the team to hold difficult positions, they have pushed on and are making great progress.

Welding the capping stripes, followed by grinding back the welds, has been started. Refurbishment of tank’s water gauge has been completed. On the bunker the severe corrosion on the rear ducket panel meant the team had to cut it out, firstly removing the lamp bracket, the produce a replacement panel.

The 4253 Locomotive Company Ltd are always looking for more supporters, whether that be shareholders or volunteers to help with the restoration or sales stands at galas. For more information or to support The 4253 Locomotive Company Ltd, please visit either their Facebook page here.