VICKERS MK6B's resto

[colin jones]

Thanks Wayne, I pressed out the four that I need and my press is not really powerful enough to do it as it is only a 40 tonner. I had to use lots of oil and press them in stages which stretched parts of the bottom die. I would think It would take a 60-80 tone machine to do a single consistent pressing. But it worked with some persistence and the dies are now scrap.

[colin jones]

It's a bit hard to get much time to get lots done but I have spent some time levelling the tank so it is not twisted. I was going to replace the floor first but changed my mind after have a good think about it.
if I rebuild the top section first then I will be able to flip it over and it will keep its integrity in place. I have placed angle iron at the exact top point where the sides need to go and spot welded them in place.

[colin jones]

I am starting at the back and have pressed up the first cross member which joins the fire wall, the top and the rear. I can see that every piece that I make will have to be quite exacting so near enough just wont cut it. But all good though!

[colin jones]

I'm glad Xmas is over and I got a little bit of time today so I made hay while I could. I got a bit more of the upper frame made and fitted. I also cut down some H iron to mate some T section. I don't think it's available any more.

[colin jones]

A little bit more and I'll try and get the other side done tomorrow.

[Rob Dyba]

Looks like the carrier resto's were just a warm up to the main event Colin.

[colin jones]

Yes Rob, I think i've finished my apprenticeship.
I got most of the other side done and it was a bit on the fiddly side