Before the top sheet was finally put in position the fixing bolts for the air vent, feed pipe bracket and top inspection cover were welded in place. These items cannot be accessed internally once the tank is complete, so the bolts are held captive to allow the parts to be subsequently removed if required. All of the other items on the top of the tanks will be rivetted in place.
The top sheet was then put in position for the final time and bolted up through every other hole to await riveting.
The tank filler was checked in place, and installation of the beading to the top edge has since been completed. Both of these items will be riveted in place once the riveting of the top and side sheets has been completed.
With the top sheet secured in place we have made the tube that carries the feed water pipe through the middle of the tanks, and also the two drain pipes that keep the top of the tank clear of water.
First published on the WSRA 4561 restoration blog.