Restoration of Hull 731- Carrier, MG (Aust) Mortar Carrying

[Darrin Wright]

Took time off work so had 5 days at home.
Commenced repairs on the linkage brackets for the front seats, had to build up the rusted sections with weld and several were broken and cracked around the pivot into the cast floor bracket. Repaired the cover that goes over the steering cam plate, it was bent and cracked, luckily no rust.

Managed to repair the hole in the rear of the air scoop on the left side by grinding down a patch and welding it in. Measured up and cut some 3/4"tube for the handrail in the left side of the hull. After test fitting the tube for the handrail in the left side I have found that nothing really lines up and is square or true with the hull, also the small ration boxes in the front left corner of the rear hull cannot be accessed. I have decided to go back to my original plan of replacing the handrail in the right side of the hull. I can still access the battery and should be able to work on the engine as required.

So I have patched the hole in the air scoop on the right side and have bought and cut 3/8"rod for the upright sections.

[Darrin Wright]

Placed the 3/4"tubing into the hull and tack welded it in, happy that it was straight and true I then welded it in for good. I then cut the 3/8"rod and welded in the 6 vertical sections, this strengthened the handrail and does not take up too much room. Looks a bit odd having it in there as I have only seen one other hull with the handrails in.

Stripped down all the smaller fittings and tie wired everything together ready to be sandblasted come summer and I have some time off.
Sunday morning I measured up for all the steel that is required to repair the front armour and rebuild the rear stowage box shelf, when ready I will visit the lazer cutters and drop of my order.