VICKERS MK6B's resto

[colin jones]

Both surrounds are in very good condition but most if not all of the internals are not but I will use as much of the original components as I can. I'm quite happy with what I have to work with. My poor workshop is in a bloody big mess so I think it's time to clear some mess before I start tripping over stuff.

[Lynn Eades]

So Colin, are they or are they not basket cases? (Sorry, I couldn't help my self )
Btw, have you thought of this? Without a doubt you have to be the most knowledgeable living person in the world on this model of tank. Not a farmer, but outstanding in your field. Well done Colin!

[Mike Gurr]

Colin,
I don't post much on here, usually on the Carrier forum but I do log on every evening hoping for another update on your project. Your work is excellent, I and I imagine many others very much appreciate your efforts in sharing your odyssey with us. Please keep it up and looking forward to seeing the running result.

[colin jones]

Well thankyou Lynn and Mike 😊 I certainly appreciate your comments. No Lynn they are far from it and just as well. I just can't imagine how the hell I would get all this information without these (not) 😁 basket cases and I'm so happy that there will still be some nice original parts back in these little tanks. I think it was mentioned before! How much or the original needs to bee there before its a replica.🤔 Hard one to answer.
Back to business😎 Making really good progress on these baskets as I have made the two floors and did a test fit and it's extremely tight and kept the original shape from 1936.

[colin jones]

I formed the 2mm ally over some marine ply I cut to the right diameter and used my air hammer to hug the perimeter. This is a very good way of getting the right shape and also great if you have to do more than one possibly two
There are a series of cradle type boxes that I am doing too. I reckon about a week and I'll have them both back up to speed.

[colin jones]

There is a aluminium angle frame that is riveted to the floor and is in need of repair. It is made from 32x32x5mm angle and I do not believe that they don't make that size here in Aus any more. The nearest I can get is 40x40x6 🤨 I guess I will have to use it and machine it down to the size I want. At least it's aluminium and I can accept 6mm thick

[clarkray]

Hi Colin,I have just retired after sixty years in the machining and fabricating business(36 years on my own).I also have rebuilt dodges, ford t16 carrier and even built a tank on a carrier frame.I believe myself to be pretty decent worker.But you have put me to shame!I can only wish to be half as good as yourself!Congratulations!

[Lynn Eades]

Colin, I had the same trouble with steel angle here and had the edges water / lazer cut to size. (water is better because I didn't have to straighten it) I don't know what people do in other parts of the world, Riveted carriers have approx. 7mm side armour. Here I can only buy 6mm or 8mm plate. Maybe in Australia and other larger countries you have more choice? Everything is a compromise, but the small variations you have to make will be of little consequence. Mechanically minded people, like us, will be in awe of what you have done.