The long discussed restoration of the remaining end roof canopy has been completed and the photos tell the story.
Despite modern alternatives of fibreglass or ormonoid being readily available, the traditional coating of canvas and navy dressing was selected as the "upstairs" coating of choice to continue the teams quest to restore the car with as much authenticity as possible.
After researching the traditional methods, preparing the materials, and consulting former NSW CME & Carriage works manager William S Casley on the finer points of the process we were ready to launch into the task.
Step 1. Hang the canvas to allow the creases to fall out.
Step 2. Apply a liberal coating of Navy Dressing to the canopy and after tacking the top edge of the canvas in place, pull down to stretch the canvas over the canopy and roll/rub the canvass to work it into the dressing. The dressing must soak through the canvas to ensure good penetration and bonding.
Due to the curve in the roof, the canvas need to be cut and folded to form a good tight cover without creases.
Step 3. With all the canvas rolled/rubbed down tack it in place and apply another top sealing coat of the Navy dressing. If the dressing gets too thick, thin it with Linseed oil.
Step 4. Around the botton endge form the aluminium gutter strip and screw in place.
A good tight fit to clamp the canvas is whats needed. Dont forget to head the screws!
To help protect the newly clad malthoid roof from the elements Brett & Todd applied a liberal coat of roof silver.
This not only looks great but helps seal the roof and reflect the suns damaging heat.
The roof now looks like it should again and now only the final securing cover strips and fletnar vents need to be fitted.
The sun sets once again on a roof ready for many years of service.
Downstairs in the vestibule Steve continues his wood works and is tidying up the hole in the floor made in breakdown service to accomodate the gas cabinet.
The hole allows the solid floor construction techniques detailed by designer EE Lucy for the carriage build to be clearly visible. Apart from the top floor covering there is an upper timber sheeting, tar paper, below that angled floor slats, horse hair insulation and finally a lower underfloor lining.
Next door in the former attendnats compartment, Steve has completed the slat wall and the toilet is being trial fitted.
At the corridoor end, a new wall to form the gas cabinet and additional storage area is now partly in place.
In the compartments Jess continues with the pre spring cleaning.
The wash basins have come up a treat due to her tremendous effort and elbow grease and after a closer look we now realise that there are 2 pattern variations on the basins.
The thorough cleaning of the compartments has been made so much easier by the temporary dismantling of the bunks...
...and further evidence of the cars original identity is revealed.
