Hi from box van owner in Somerset

[Michaeljb]

Hi. I am thought I would join the forum to help with research I am doing in connection with the restoration of a British rail 12 ton ventilated box van I have. I am hoping I can find the correct sign writing details and how to do the canvas roof correctly. I also hope to find some blue print drawings to help with the fabrication of the door hasp and staple and other door fittings as these are missing. My van was in a sorry state but I have been replacing the rotted boarding and making some welding repairs. As with many of these vans it's the upper structure only as it was used as a horse shelter for many years. I am trying to do an accurate sympathetic restoration but I am afraid it's staying grounded. Any help with the hand brake wording would be welcome. It's an all plank van C1957.

[Michaeljb]

This is the sign writing I am looking for the correct wording for. It's just above the hand brake painted white on a black background and includes an arrow pointing at the hand lever. Mine was no longer there as it had rotted away.

Screenshot_20220707-195500~2.jpg

[Michaeljb]

PXL_20220629_082716647.jpg

PXL_20220725_062829265.jpg

PXL_20220804_154549586.jpg

PXL_20220804_154555069.jpg

[Michaeljb]

Screenshot_20220805-081914.jpg

I assume most of the text is related to the box size like this example. Makes sense but I would rather work from a correct example. FYI, I have tried the Paul Bartlett site but none of the images are sufficiently clear to read. Thanks

[Beeyar Wunby]

Hi Michael & welcome to the forum.

I suggest you speak to a Heritage railway, they have experience of this.

You could try the Carriage and Wagon department at the North Norfolk Railway, they regularly rebuild & paint rolling stock to its original specification. Eg...Covered Carriage Truck

General Enquiries - 01263 820800

Cheers, John