As a result of sustaining a collapsed suspension tube bearing to No 4 wheelset whilst in British Rail ownership , the decision was taken to change No 2 bogie completely for the No 1 bogie recovered from scrapped 31123.
The underframe was treated to 3 thorough steam cleans , it was that bad ! , and claws , cables , pipes etc were disconnected . 31123's No 1 bogie was overhauled and repainted then converted to a No 2 bogie by the fitting of AWS. Over 4 days Thursday 15th Feb - Sunday 18th Feb 2007, the bogie exchange took place in the PRCLT West Shed at Swanwick.
On the Thursday , the loco was lifted from its bogies and both bogies removed. The No 1 bogie being taken 'downstairs' for steam cleaning and the No 2 bogie placed for storage. The Friday saw more steam cleaning to the No 1 bogie after which it was positioned back inside the shed for drying and for a small amount of repairs to be carried out. On the Saturday the bogie was re-painted and repairs carried out on the loco's underframe. Finally , the Sunday saw 31123's bogie brought 'upstairs' and later in the afternoon both bogies were carefully positioned underneath 31418 and the body gently lowered down.
31418 was taken back 'downstairs' and placed into storage. Claws , cables etc will be fitted shortly.........another major step forward......!
31418 is positioned ready to be 'set up' for lifting at West Shed on 15/02/07.
Bogies are removed from underneath 31418 by Class 03 D2138 on 15/02/07.
No 1 bogie ex 31418 is steam cleaned at Swanwick on 16/02/07.
31418 sits on the jacks awaiting the return of some bogies on 16/02/07.
No 1 bogie receives finishing touches following repair and painting on 17/02/07.
Another view of 31418 waiting for bogies on 18/02/07. All photos by M Atmore. |
