25 Pounder info needed.

[Private_collector]

It took a surprisingly long time to prepare the shield for etch priming this afternoon. These things are something I only want to do once, so there has been a lot of sanding and some filing to ensure the upper shield doesnt scrape any paint off, once reinstalled.
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The etch went on very smoothly. I was surprised, actually. I have found some etches in past to be a bit fussy with application. Too light, you've made sandpaper. Too heavy a coat, and it all slides down...but not evenly.
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I used a Protec etch that I have only used previously in spray cans, and I'm impressed with it. Having made the effort to actually ask for the MSDS, I left it inside this morning, and was thoroughly grubby and sweaty by the time I remembered it. Rightly or wrongly, I decided to do without it. All I wanted to know was thinning ratio, and I winged it. Still couldn't say what ratio is. Just kept pouring thinners into the pot until it felt 'right'.

Since getting home last night, I haven't had a chance to shop for more bolts to make my fake rivets, so I'll get them while paint dries tomorrow. There is potentially hours in getting the bolts to my specifications, so nothing else will go onto the shield at this stage. I didn't take any photos of the bolts I have put on so far, but will do that tomorrow. Not yet had one that turned while being tightened, though that will surely happen now that I have made this comment! I'm pleased with how they appear from the angry side of the shield. Just look like bolts from the other side.

Tomorrow, it gets greener.

[Private_collector]

Gents,
Took a number of 25 pdr reference photos at Bandiana Military Museum.
The following may be of interest / use to someone.
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More to follow.

[Private_collector]

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[Private_collector]

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[Private_collector]

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That's the lot.

One of the above, is not like the other ones. Do you see which one? It is from a ceremonial carriage which has been used for some of Australias most noted military funerals in past years. There are, in fact, two of these carriages at the museum. They have carried the caskets of: Sir Ernest Edward "Weary" Dunlop AC, CMG, OBE, and our last ANZAC, Mr Alec William Campbell, who died in 2002, aged 103. Rest their souls.

I have some photos of the ceremonial carriages, if anyone is intereted.

[lynx42]

Great photos Tony.

The gun carriage would be this one due to the uprights and the brake lines.


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Regards Rick.

[Private_collector]

That's right Rick, well spotted. Never seen another 25 pdr with vacuum brakes. Good sensible addition for a carriage that simply MUST NOT FAIL during service. I bet it got meticulous overhauling in addition to the upgrade.
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Mrs B got to sit in a Jeep while we were at the museum. I don't recall seeing this 'interactive exhibit' vehicle when I visited in September 2015, but it was a hurried visit that day.
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And this is what will happen to me if any more military vehicles find their way to our place.
That said, I have been given a 1941 Ford CMP which is yet to be retrieved. That hasn't been discussed as yet.

Did you get my PM about your wheels?