News  26th August 2006

Unfortunately the saga with the MOD damages claim drags on and the result is that no serious work can be undertaken on 50026. We are now a full 2 years behind schedule.

However we do still make occasional visits to the loco to make sure that the weather is not causing any damage. During these visits we have been able to undertake some minor work. Mainly this is to keep painting areas and pipework to stop corrosion. We have also be able to fit the new cab flooring to both cabs. The result is that both cabs are now looking almost complete.

As part of the "protective" work we are also fitting newly overhauled cab doors (ex 50043 and 50045) which will make the loco more secure and keep out the rain better.

A small welding job was also undertaken by Chris Osborn to replace some corroded metal work.

Here are some photos taken over the last couple of visits by my star helper, John Martin.

    50026 from No 1 end. Paintwork is fading but still sound.

    50026 from No 2 end.

    Corrosion under cab floor is repaired

    Corrosion in fan room is repaired

    New wiring in No 1 cab. This was completed just before the loco was damaged in October 2004.

    No 1 end cab after a dusting and clean up.

    No 2 end cab

    No 2 end cab showing new flooring. The only major job completed since the loco was damage in 2004.

Click on any image to enlarge....