The current issue (Issue 326 November 22-December 20, 2024) of Heritage Railway, a UK-based magazine, contains on pg. 24 a news item describing modifications to another of these ex-SAR 2' gauge ballast hoppers at the Vale of Rheidol Railway, in Wales.
"The significant upgrade, carried out in-house at the railway's workshops, included a comprehensive overhaul and the installation of an unloading mechanism designed to enhance operational efficiency. The updated system now allows ballast to be discharged both along the rails and outside the track, providing greater versatility and precision."
An accompanying 3/4-view photo shows that the as-built central discharge control wheel above the end platform has been replaced by two smaller side-by-side control wheels, each connected to what appear to be enclosed chain mechanism extending down below the platform deck. Furthermore, there now appears to be two separate discharge chutes visible below the side sill, suggesting that similar control wheel modifications have been made at the opposite end of the car so as to create four independently-controlled discharges, each capable of dumping ballast inside or outside of the rail as needed. In addition, given that the new control wheels are located outside the prominent angled car end structural members, some operator safety improvements have been added, with side handrails at each operating position as well as conventional end railings. These side and end railings together also appear to greatly facilitate access to the platform via the corner stirrup steps.
I don't have time at the moment to fool around with photo hosting sites etc., but I could email a copy of the magazine photo to anyone involved in the proposed WW&F hopper modifications, or perhaps some other member who receives this magazine could post a photo. It's possible that further details and photos might be able to be obtained through inquiry to someone at the Vale of Rheidol Railway, if any WW&F member has a contact there.
