THE SCOTTISH VINTAGE BUS MUSEUM WORKSHOP
Right: 09/02/2003 (Jim Crichton) |
 From the
outset it was decided that there should be plenty of
space to work on each vehicle, rather than to cram in as
many as possible. Thus, in our 20,000 square feet
building, we have 14 vehicle bays against about twenty
that a commercial operation would accept. There is space
for another three vehicles for quick repairs, if they are
kept mobile. As a workshop is seen as the core of vehicle
restoration, the workshop building was the first to be
tackled after the move was completed. Most of the
concrete floor was untreated, therefore painting it was
the first task, giving a sealed, easy to clean surface
and eliminating a huge dust problem. The walls and
ceiling were then painted, and this helped to brighten
the place up. The lighting was completely replaced, and
the electrical system upgraded to incorporate 25v low
voltage, three-phase and sufficient 240v points. After
these preliminaries, we were able to set about equipment
and facilities.
Left: 09/02/2003 (Jim Crichton) |
Right: 09/02/2003 (Jim Crichton) |
From general observation, the museum provides a facility appreciated by visitors, professionals and, most importantly, members, and is committed to the requirements of vehicle restoration. Andrew Walker Left: 09/02/03 (Jim Crichton) |
|
Right: 24/11/02 (Jim Crichton) |
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Most of
us involved in vehicle preservation have probably started
from an interest kindled by some spark, to be fuelled by
actually working on vehicles themselves. With the move to
Lathalmond, we were able to create a dedicated workshop
facility, as opposed to having one building where
vehicles were stored and worked on, either in a corner or
dotted about the building. 
There
is a full ring-main air system capable of meeting the
highest demand from the shot-blaster and 1" drive
impact wrench. A range of air tools comprising sanders, 1/2" drive impact guns, ratchet,
hammer and drills, ensures that members are able to take
full advantage of the system. Other equipment comprises:
a 6-post, 12 ton lift; Hywema-type mobile lifting posts;
8 ft sheet-metal guillotine, folder and rollers; 3 ft
guillotine and folder; wood bench-saw and planer;
bandsaw; pillar drill; lathe; gas, arc and MIG welding
equipment; mobile 110v equipment; engine cranes; body
lifts, and all the usual jacks, stands and minor tools.
Members
are expected to provide their own hand tools, although a
small general selection is available, including items
such as a 3/4" drive socket set, and the larger
hammers, levers and wrenches, as well as a number of
special tools acquired over the years. Also enclosed in
the workshop building are a changing room, storage areas
for fast moving parts and materials, and a mess-room.(The
tractor is legitimate - for grass cutting)