Thanks for the kind comments Rick.
indeed it is most frustrating after all that typing! Anyway, the short version was that I managed to get the front bogie bracket bolted into the hull, but it was more tricky than the rear. There are quite a few, approx 16 or 17 bolts and screws to line to get it fixed in ok. There is quite a bit of flex thankfully for this task in both the sponson side and the bulkhead which enables one to line up the inner fixings near the centre of the vehicle. The TM states that mating sufaces should be sealed to enable deep fording, so I applied a straight forward black silicone which I am able to trim off when its set.
I fitted new rope seal around the rear of the suspension unit and front where it seals up against the inner edge of the bogie bracket and the outer thrust washer. I imagine this is a two way seal, one to stop water and grit ingress the other is to retain as much as possible of the grease held within the suspension unit. As I am sure many of you will have already discovered, lifting these units onto the bracket is really a two man job, but somehow I managed now I have a weeks recuperation on holiday and plenty of mental planning for the next stages of the restoration. Eventually got hold of Nordian Services and I should be in receipt of some NOS main bearings awaiting my return. More soon.
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