THE restoration of Class 50 No. 50030 Repulse took a step forward on November 23, with the removal of its four radiators – the first major components to be removed from the loco for overhaul.
Owner the Renown Repulse Restoration Group (RRRG) has so far been following a policy of repairing its spares for use in No. 50030 rather than stripping the loco. However, although the group does have some spare radiators, it was felt prudent to remove the radiators from the loco for overhaul, as a professional inspection suggested they were in far better condition than the spares. Their removal has also opened up the radiator compartment to allow general restoration to this area.
The radiator fan motor, which had seized in its mounting, first had to be freed before the roof panel could be removed to access the two pairs of radiators. These were then carefully lifted out of the tight space and the roof replaced. The RRRG says it has heard other groups have had issues with roof panels distorting when they have been left off the loco for prolonged periods.
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