As the weather was nice, I popped over to Ropley sheds today. As hoped, 92212 was basking in the sunshine.
What immediately struck me is how much her paintwork has faded since I photographed her in 2012.
I think this fading lends itself to detail showing more.
She was parked in an off limits area, so I had to be accompanied by an apprentice boiler smith, who was an absolute mine of information in relation to what each valve, pipe, lever etc does. Being an old g*t, I have since forgotten!! What I do remember is that she has been 'wintered' meaning she is drained of water and water valves left open and certain fittings have stop ends removed to prevent frost damage.
This is the first time I have had a really good look over a steam loco, and what a beast!! I can feel my self slipping to conversion.....
As the apprentice had to get back to work, I had to leave the area, so didn't get all the pics I wanted (namely the tender, pony truck and some decent between the frames shots. Still, I have another 80 or so which may be worth posting.....
Fist off here are a few of the valves and fittings:
More to follow if wanted.