Written by Peter Becker

This update is a summary of the work that has been completed in 2022 and 2023.  Much work has been done and the end of this restoration project is now in sight.

Interior work

Paint and varnish stripping is completed.  This labor intensive work required using heat to soften up to 4 layers of paint so it could be scraped off.  Additional scraping and sanding got down to clean wood.  The baggage section was painted a dark red color to match the original paint.  The color does leave the section dark looking with light only from one window and the small windows in the baggage doors.

In the passenger section walls were stripped and the walnut trim was reattached.  After filling many screw and nail holes and finish sanding the walls were stained.  A small section has been varnished to get an idea of the finished coloring of the walls.  The clerestory area was also stripped and painted white and the clerestory window were installed.

In other perhaps less noticed work the old and damaged Panasote ceiling was removed in preparation for the new ceiling.  The original ceiling/head liner was painted canvas tacked to roof ribs. We do not know the color or pattern of the original as we only have scraps of the fabric from around the edges but we hope the new ceiling will be in the style of the original.  Significant time was also spent repairing missing and rotten floor boards.

Reproduction of the seats is the last major project for the interior.  We have the cast iron seat parts which have now been painted and the wood seat frame parts are made and varnished.  The bottom and back cushions still need to be made and upholstered.

Exterior Work

Installation of the sound deafening ceiling attached to the underside of the car body was completed and the truss rods and brake parts were painted but the major exterior project was the roof work.  This work include replacing damaged structural parts, patching vent holes and replacing small portions of the roof deck.  Wood drip edge made many years ago was finally installed.  Prior to installation of the canvas roof covering, the roof deck was sanded and painted while keeping an eye out for any protruding nails or screws.  Canvas was stretched over the roof and tacked along the edges with thousands of tacks.  The canvas was saturated with a special formula canvas paint to make it impermeable to water.  The drip edge and other exposed wood was painted the green color that will be used on the rest of the car body.  Finally, new screens were installed to complete the roof.

A special thanks to any volunteers that have helped with the project in the last 2 years. Including (in no particular order) David M, David P, Larry S, Steve P, Jay S, Karl S, Jeff H, Nancy K, Owen H, Mike M, Tom B, Gregg W., Jane, Richard P, James B. Grant H. and probably someone I have forgotten.

All photos are by Peter Becker unless otherwise noted.