Restoration of Class 502 progresses…
THE RESTORATION of the sole-surviving former London Midland & Scottish Class 502 electric multiple unit, formed of cars M28361M and M29896M, is progressing well at the Merseyside Transport Trust premises in Burscough, West Lancashire. Once part of the National Collection, the two-car EMU is now in the care of the Class 502 Preservation Trust and has been undergoing extensive bodywork repairs and an overhaul.
The main focus of attention for the owning group over the past couple of years has been the driving trailer vehicle, M29896M, which is now nearing completion. The driving cab front has been rebuilt and the corroded bodyside panels, along both sides of the vehicle, have been replaced with new steel, while the sliding door pockets have also received attention.
Internally, the saloons of the driving trailer have been stripped out, with the floors repaired, windows, glass and panelling refurbished. The doors have been overhauled and refitted, and the seating has been cleaned and reinstated. The internal roof linings remain to be fabricated and fitted, while externally a final coat of BR green with a small yellow warning panel on the cab are still to be done before the restoration of the driving trailer coach is finished. Meanwhile, some remedial work has been carried out on the driving motor brake second vehicle M28361M, which is also in need of bodywork renewal works, but now that work on the driving trailer’s restoration is almost complete, work on the DMBS will begin over the coming months by the C502PT. The Class 502 – which was operated on the Merseyrail network before being withdrawn by British Rail – has a special anniversary later in 2024, with both cars having formed the final Crossens to Southport electric service on September 6, 1964. The trust hopes to celebrate the 60th anniversary with events and activities.
Details of the restoration of the Class 502 and news from the Class 502 Preservation Trust can be found at www.502.org.uk or at facebook. com/502group/