6023 in the restoration shed.

Long view of 6023 in the restoration shed

Note the absence of metal cladding over the firebox (the silver part of the engine), exposing the many hundreds of firebox stays that prevent the enormous pressure of the boiler from collapsing the firebox onto the fire. In this sequence of pictures, the firebox side cladding is gradually fitted after a long design and cutting process over many months.

6023's cab

This was in the early stages of cutting and building up the complex jigsaw of plates for the boiler floor. Also contrast this shot with more recent ones of the cab fittings and pipework.

6023's right hand splasher and nameplate

Note the end of the boiler cladding and yellow straps holding it on.

Right hand cylinder and valve space.

The silver pipe in the top right of the picture will carry steam to the valve. The black box at the top of the picture is the mechanical lubricator. Unlike a car, a steam engine works on the basis of losing its oil, so a constant supply is pumped to key components.

6023 and display

The right side of the smokebox

Note the silver coloured steam pipe. This would later be appear much thicker when cladding had been fitted.

Members of the team planning the firebox cladding.

The right hand firebox cladding being fitted.

More work on the firebox cladding.

One of the most challenging jobs on steel sheets this size was to make sure the holes in the cladding were cut accurately to line up with the lines of boiler plugs. They were cut on a large swing drill in Didcot's forge.

More work on the cladding.

Weeks of work were needed to ensure that the fit of the sheets was accurate - this will be one of the most visible areas on the engine.

Members of the team cleaning the engine.

Cleaning finished for the day!

Tom hangs up the rags.