Sunday, January 5, 2020

A New Threshold

While the 451 is basically complete, it's been missing its thresholds at each end for a long time.  And that seemed like a good project to tackle next.  I was able to locate some wood that would be suitable for use, and good progress was made yesterday.

First, the end of the car looks like this:


The wood I decided to use required a lot of planing.  Before and after:


Wood was cut to shape, as seen here.  The metal plates will be attached with screws.





The wood is attached to the frame of the car with bolts going into tapped holes.  Getting everything to line up before installation requires careful placement.  



But both pieces line up properly.


And finally, both pieces got a coat of primer.


The next project will be making wooden frames for the roll signs at each end of the 451 and 453, which can be done at home.   More on that soon.


Meanwhile, there was action on most of the usual projects.  Tim continues making seats for the 1754.


Victor and Bill discuss what needs to be done on the bobber.


John Sheldon continues working on the 306, and here Dan Fenlaciki is welding on the exposed frame of the car.


And riveting and welding were being done on the 28.


4 comments:

Kirk Warner said...

You say that the 451 is basically complete. What remains to be done before it can enter service?

I really look forward to your updates!

Randall Hicks said...

That's a good question, and it isn't too hard to list the remaining items.
1) Complete the roof (running boards, trolley bases and poles, misc. hardware)
2) Install the repaired compressor and test the control group and motors
3) Many small parts need to be installed, mostly in and around the vestibules
4) Lettering
The interior is rather shabby, but for now I think we will be able to put the car in service as it is. This year, I would hope.

Unknown said...

A query - since the IRM Yahoo list seems to have gone away and I know of no place else to post - is there a calendar this year? (Obviously I haven't got one if there is, and yes my dues were paid.) Thanks! Jim Reising - Tennessee

Randall Hicks said...

Certainly there is, you should have gotten one in the mail along with R&W. Call the office.