Re: C & S Update - Interior bunk bench

Off in my "shop" in Arizona, the interior cabinetry restoration is in progress. The condition and level of completeness of the cabinetry throughout the caboose was a big advantage in this project. It's provided a lot of the historic fabric that will be retained in the reconstructed caboose.

First, here's a view of the bunk-bench as found in the 1008. This side had the two hatches intact, but not very sound. These hatches are missing on the opposite side. Second photo shows the cleaned up, partially disassembled original in the shop.



After disassembly, firming up some pieces with epoxy and Abatron, making new frame parts to replace those that were rotten, here is the rebuilt frame.


Although not attached as yet, the restored outer planks are shown primed and fitted to the frame. Each piece that is visible on the outside of the bench is original. Plenty of patching with epoxy and sanding was needed to firm these up in some spots, also splicing in a few small pieces.


This view shows the rebuilt bench hatches. The lateral pieces that join the long planks were very rotted, so were recreated. These were solidly built originally, with four screws holding each of three planks to the lateral pieces inside. Two hinges (set in place for the photo) were original with the caboose, two matching strap hinges were found on e-bay!


In progress are the brake cylinder fabrication, preparation of journal boxes, and rebuilding of the end wall frames. More on that at the NNGC Clinic (Friday morning and evening), and in future Updates.

Bob of AZ