March 2008

Well I was hoping at this point to be able to show the full front upper deck framework on but alas as the end of the month hit, it wasn't quite finished but hopefully you can see the progress made.

It has been the most complex and difficult part of the framework, due to the fact that we have very few drawings for this part, very little survived that was complete enough even to be used for patterns and of course it a very curved area, leaning back, tapering in and rounded on top!

As can be seen though the front two sides bays are in complete with the metal supports, which are both the originals, the roof box and front top window support went in, again for some peculiar reason the wood around the roofbox all survived and is the original stuff that has been cleaned up and treated. We will now finish this area off, add the blind box framework, the front central pillar and fix the floor boards at the front down. We will then go back and finish some framework around the rear blind box and top of the stairs and for now that will be the framing finished.

If that’s all completed for next month then we will start fitting the wiring, conduit and light fittings to the upper deck and also anytime now the engine should be back from recon and it will be our intention to fit this before starting on any panel work either outside or in but that’s all some time away.

As to completion date, thank you for those who fired in dates (mostly sensible!) Cobham next year (2009) was the favourite and I think if I had of suggested that when the vehicle was being stripped down most would have laughed, so clearly the progress has been good. My feeling however is that it will be slightly behind that and possibly London-Brighton run in May next year? But you never know, however we aren't setting a date on this to then have to rush (and possibly mess up) any of the finishing items, its one of those that will take as long as it takes. I will do an update at the end of April/beginning of May, so cheers 'til then.