tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14009032399301765642024-03-18T22:49:05.899+00:00Michael's Model RailwaysMichael Campbell's blog about his model railways. Building model railway layouts in 009 (OO9) scaleMichael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.comBlogger674125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-44814805186337337422024-03-15T21:04:00.000+00:002024-03-15T21:04:07.782+00:00More life for Hexworthy<p>I mentioned that I'd been adding more details to Hexworthy as one of the multiple tasks I was working on ahead of its first show last weekend, but I'd not managed to keep on top of blogging. As well as painting passengers and loco crew, more people, animals, and some details were prepared for the layout. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdGJ_so-XetdFcE-T4bLlNwuwuv7dXbObaZbsT7IQ2GK8etv6JBex2-ztTJOLgOl7m6lNOnSJw_7hwmvw1G8SDgqJmTjIN1rQNx8BbFimCuqgvS4wWYwdGVgRfULBSW1F_q2gN-m8hkfjNCTjgDEKkjYdV7bJGmB4s7MhZeoxPtSAvQKhfjWuXlmj8ek8/s800/2024-03-02%2010.57.08.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdGJ_so-XetdFcE-T4bLlNwuwuv7dXbObaZbsT7IQ2GK8etv6JBex2-ztTJOLgOl7m6lNOnSJw_7hwmvw1G8SDgqJmTjIN1rQNx8BbFimCuqgvS4wWYwdGVgRfULBSW1F_q2gN-m8hkfjNCTjgDEKkjYdV7bJGmB4s7MhZeoxPtSAvQKhfjWuXlmj8ek8/w640-h450/2024-03-02%2010.57.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>On the top row are Bachmann trackworkers, given to me by my son when we dismantled his train set. I've touched up the paint in places and given them a shadow wash. The rest of the figures and animals are from the Finescale Figures batch I got in a sale a while back (it may have been a closing down sale as the website has gone!). They're 3D printed and appear to be scans of real people (probably not the animals though they are well proportioned), maybe not quite as crisp as Model-U figures but very good. You can see I got carried away with the animals, and even got a Dobby (if you know you know). All painted with enamels, with the aid of Google images to help with the animals. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJEX_uoSn1QLWDtUblAHmtFybbjJbKNmc022ML2tqHYLQI1z3XG93xexI3c85NL_10dhjG6TLNy_G18UpK199GdaKBLTVlmVh9RiE1vm9evGa-CrcCy4gkYHiCMseWsZkZSfMo_VCnWbryrcfWkxvPEy-soHsz9cAArqYAKHQcuZepGUgWy-HoksAdcxb/s800/P1050407.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJEX_uoSn1QLWDtUblAHmtFybbjJbKNmc022ML2tqHYLQI1z3XG93xexI3c85NL_10dhjG6TLNy_G18UpK199GdaKBLTVlmVh9RiE1vm9evGa-CrcCy4gkYHiCMseWsZkZSfMo_VCnWbryrcfWkxvPEy-soHsz9cAArqYAKHQcuZepGUgWy-HoksAdcxb/w640-h456/P1050407.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So, starting at the left hand end we have a group of (presumably volunteer) trackworkers in conversation. The compressor, welding kit and generator are by Westhill Wagon Works. There's also a robin on the wall, a squirrel on top of the container, and a (HO scale Faller) photographer in the distance behind the gate. </div></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaUuK9xLszpDTKGmUQ6HKWA7kp3BZhpGPO1NsZFOoHK2DDnPxqXpZcHeDfNsmGUijJYiIkRt4UZc7wzJ4EzNd4C68v5uaay6bkV_KpEJo1KgCK0pcf-1-ujs0iegskElwviFQJ6UIYIednjFHTtpPj-ZVvC-zOx8lDO7LZjm5ccV0S8DoO7sDaIUmJe1W/s800/IMG_3977.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="800" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaUuK9xLszpDTKGmUQ6HKWA7kp3BZhpGPO1NsZFOoHK2DDnPxqXpZcHeDfNsmGUijJYiIkRt4UZc7wzJ4EzNd4C68v5uaay6bkV_KpEJo1KgCK0pcf-1-ujs0iegskElwviFQJ6UIYIednjFHTtpPj-ZVvC-zOx8lDO7LZjm5ccV0S8DoO7sDaIUmJe1W/w640-h470/IMG_3977.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Under the station canopy we have a lady checking her phone, and a cat (Monty's models) curled up by a bin (Layouts 4 U). The birds on the canopy have a special role. Lining the end of a carriage roof up with the blue tit puts the coupling over the magnet for Greenwich or modified Peco couplings, the same against the robin puts the coupling over the magnet for Microtrains couplings. This is a real help when uncoupling locos while operating from the fiddle yard end. </div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBuP5zlxNXAEILaiYq3KDU2AIx7UfGCKcRcdSSWrT_KD1PO4tq61VqHzzhXasoCznkYHSxteT4qMtkGY6LyfxkuB2BpvrnchJYtKZikS9tdF6jfr74j79jOS4UOE9jFihVqV7fMhAJeco3TlqRfPQxR_VI0uPPNdLz2oxNbzchQqcC6otz5BnuQHnWsme/s800/IMG_3976.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="800" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBuP5zlxNXAEILaiYq3KDU2AIx7UfGCKcRcdSSWrT_KD1PO4tq61VqHzzhXasoCznkYHSxteT4qMtkGY6LyfxkuB2BpvrnchJYtKZikS9tdF6jfr74j79jOS4UOE9jFihVqV7fMhAJeco3TlqRfPQxR_VI0uPPNdLz2oxNbzchQqcC6otz5BnuQHnWsme/w640-h482/IMG_3976.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Over by the café a young man seems to be in conversation with his Dalmatian while his partner checks in her handbag, there's another bin, and a long-haired lady tells her partner to hurry up with his coffee. There's a bottle of coke/beer on the table and crates of bottles left outside the café (Faller). Out of shot, the other table has a tray of bottles and an ash tray.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdE9KtuUsOvhrhNh3iLKdZYnGziDrVYZv_ASpY-A9J_IemukLbmmOES3I25J0ucgfRvBqwOYR5_bpSxfZZYhQlRQ9VIZ071AVtfdEwRxlo8XrcomnQISqydyOPZxaxru1Q2NCpvqWJKX8cJmHMF7XKCyiij4ZIRkmH8iUVQN-qa4jt3qf2NlnanrQvcOl/s800/IMG_3981.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="800" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdE9KtuUsOvhrhNh3iLKdZYnGziDrVYZv_ASpY-A9J_IemukLbmmOES3I25J0ucgfRvBqwOYR5_bpSxfZZYhQlRQ9VIZ071AVtfdEwRxlo8XrcomnQISqydyOPZxaxru1Q2NCpvqWJKX8cJmHMF7XKCyiij4ZIRkmH8iUVQN-qa4jt3qf2NlnanrQvcOl/w640-h462/IMG_3981.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>There's a bottle on the bar of the ice cream stall too, an upturned crate serves as a step. I've added a bin too. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_udjr_v0ncy-pQkT_t1H9G4lSYkRj0JZCVjzYvZwt68mYw2pXmXvh1yx7lwe5zmuDnXHhvvr5qqjw4RJCnt-N79d669NPtV2M38a_ao2p8Y65O0ItUeQtpfYm1yzQUMmiwHCeQJKisURb8SpW57_ea3BX401dAeVU8sYnQOQ7a5IO2sG1qKnt-86E-v_K/s800/IMG_3974.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_udjr_v0ncy-pQkT_t1H9G4lSYkRj0JZCVjzYvZwt68mYw2pXmXvh1yx7lwe5zmuDnXHhvvr5qqjw4RJCnt-N79d669NPtV2M38a_ao2p8Y65O0ItUeQtpfYm1yzQUMmiwHCeQJKisURb8SpW57_ea3BX401dAeVU8sYnQOQ7a5IO2sG1qKnt-86E-v_K/w640-h456/IMG_3974.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div>A solitary figure waits thoughtfully at the end of the platform with his dog. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzJn0GFayo1tghOuoTMeZOhwY5q7A7Esifi02PsOIBZAGIsTa_DX1l8IvlgqWj_rnx3yPrmR_PozRCE_pR3QLxwkAIwJD1QHDri5rpfuYcHLox-dXk-brbyvdA5kObkQ7js7gn38q1auXOEIENif11L0mQr2lzjmEJ-Nm18aX0lT85W5YFo9WCLC8L4Ci/s800/IMG_3971.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzJn0GFayo1tghOuoTMeZOhwY5q7A7Esifi02PsOIBZAGIsTa_DX1l8IvlgqWj_rnx3yPrmR_PozRCE_pR3QLxwkAIwJD1QHDri5rpfuYcHLox-dXk-brbyvdA5kObkQ7js7gn38q1auXOEIENif11L0mQr2lzjmEJ-Nm18aX0lT85W5YFo9WCLC8L4Ci/w640-h440/IMG_3971.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another trackworker waits by the ground-frame. His pose seemed just right, once I'd cut away the "rock" his foot was resting on.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7w7dtx5NJYjXGR-_paY_2xq0bFhcUAngNhf3s0BvTcm0CJKhZcJUqGSRRH-L2NhsjvwjqUOgfJpjMi47DFoOHbRp3CnSeAWgS5IJ43zTS2nxOEvIUBznuq1boyKRZY2xwGKsZojWoJIE0UF_3qEQ-5lYMt-AMSvyLtL1Glsci97iDWDChLSlQwoVc-FtM/s800/IMG_3983.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="800" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7w7dtx5NJYjXGR-_paY_2xq0bFhcUAngNhf3s0BvTcm0CJKhZcJUqGSRRH-L2NhsjvwjqUOgfJpjMi47DFoOHbRp3CnSeAWgS5IJ43zTS2nxOEvIUBznuq1boyKRZY2xwGKsZojWoJIE0UF_3qEQ-5lYMt-AMSvyLtL1Glsci97iDWDChLSlQwoVc-FtM/w640-h444/IMG_3983.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>At the edge of the woods a pair of pheasants lurk in the undergrowth. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iXmZbr68NqAPu6dNTW_N7gRGt-2_m-k2QB7szTpujg-qkd02imWhn4nufo_qMy9XELwRzhohtHgfP1KRwuaANjQUzS_ul6G41skVyXuWNMTqDcv6IcBYE7-1lLZtMRXT6l8Qviu1HJl50oucsJEZTW4WrMmSYW4ItiyeSNIu7_6AJp1Gj6VvVsSRJMM7/s800/IMG_3984.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="800" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iXmZbr68NqAPu6dNTW_N7gRGt-2_m-k2QB7szTpujg-qkd02imWhn4nufo_qMy9XELwRzhohtHgfP1KRwuaANjQUzS_ul6G41skVyXuWNMTqDcv6IcBYE7-1lLZtMRXT6l8Qviu1HJl50oucsJEZTW4WrMmSYW4ItiyeSNIu7_6AJp1Gj6VvVsSRJMM7/w640-h462/IMG_3984.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The other side of the tracks a badger explores the field.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkShyigcqLeZO1HKFcPGdPBRxGsQruq7wWRU0C6OAcRFFLyl_hzBTuTneST_OpwlrrwOolkuePa9g7nJIrKKczBJLD6UhsUBB_I5MOyG3oSaGPM-SIfj1zx4O88uYhycYnePj9enEW7B58N95X-L5vyblPkB2pKvd3ANM1rB_zxwBYyrkS8l9I6qJnfzrg/s800/P1050420.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="800" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkShyigcqLeZO1HKFcPGdPBRxGsQruq7wWRU0C6OAcRFFLyl_hzBTuTneST_OpwlrrwOolkuePa9g7nJIrKKczBJLD6UhsUBB_I5MOyG3oSaGPM-SIfj1zx4O88uYhycYnePj9enEW7B58N95X-L5vyblPkB2pKvd3ANM1rB_zxwBYyrkS8l9I6qJnfzrg/w640-h462/P1050420.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p>Dobby lurks near the playground. The discarded pallet used as a step/duckboard for the caravan is an experiment, I've not stuck it in place yet. It may be a bit large but I quite like the effect. Let me know what you think!</p><p>It's a lot of fun adding detail though it does take a lot of work, it feels like I've been painting figures and details for months! I reckon there's 35 figures on the layout, and that's without carriage passengers or loco crews. Hopefully viewers will enjoy finding them.</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-88318912204350491242024-03-12T23:13:00.002+00:002024-03-12T23:13:33.840+00:00Hexworthy last-minute show prep<p>I had promised an update on the last-minute jobs ahead of Sunday's show, these weren't critical but make life easier when exhibiting. I had discovered during testing that the arc of the "gates" at the end of the fiddle yard as they fold down meant that the last 20mm or so of each end of the tracks couldn't be used for risk of catching the stock. The L&B Manning Wardle and its 3 coaches had to be positioned accurately to fit, while the double Fairlie couldn't fit with the same coaches. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU3QOuuet7kBbYLDCnEpjqTQc-JTiyf7Hr7Lt2Mz7yrJzZU4NA7F31t5bL7F44esh4MOhj6w0dUjOsV1owBPhUfd0ZT5ziDwafFUwGJlK6UTRomD7C4ceMbOcpqUU5GF_t3DHQB4i4lhDywTB6RgJh7i_2uyjetOj0i-3SLRmEX15uEYKYqCs2QNL5vt0/s800/2024-03-09%2011.41.06.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="487" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUU3QOuuet7kBbYLDCnEpjqTQc-JTiyf7Hr7Lt2Mz7yrJzZU4NA7F31t5bL7F44esh4MOhj6w0dUjOsV1owBPhUfd0ZT5ziDwafFUwGJlK6UTRomD7C4ceMbOcpqUU5GF_t3DHQB4i4lhDywTB6RgJh7i_2uyjetOj0i-3SLRmEX15uEYKYqCs2QNL5vt0/w390-h640/2024-03-09%2011.41.06.jpg" width="390" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The solution was relatively easy, a new hole was drilled to move the gate pivot by 10mm meaning it swings further out when folded down, just resting on the ends of the rails. The "stop" screw had to be moved too but the tail of the gate arm was still long enough to securely lock the turning deck to the sliding deck. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzze8KWjbd39FdKmrx5ClnYWnS1vdkU7YfPfeyGWkHi5nDB62vlfd-2OHgZxB94KvWj_MX1bIjBxYxAzYDkkZSDDMIE5wjMhaTM5DF2bV6-ruqC32pdnqR7l1I7CCiYCIot4_VcnZgSf_ybNtni-N3d_UbB8UWEoEj6dVagr9CvXcVeeir2gwgU-HYZeHX/s800/2024-03-09%2011.40.30.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="800" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzze8KWjbd39FdKmrx5ClnYWnS1vdkU7YfPfeyGWkHi5nDB62vlfd-2OHgZxB94KvWj_MX1bIjBxYxAzYDkkZSDDMIE5wjMhaTM5DF2bV6-ruqC32pdnqR7l1I7CCiYCIot4_VcnZgSf_ybNtni-N3d_UbB8UWEoEj6dVagr9CvXcVeeir2gwgU-HYZeHX/w640-h298/2024-03-09%2011.40.30.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Now the gates clear even the double Fairlie with the three longest coaches, just stop with buffer beams within the copper clad. A small extra cut-out was needed in the back panel to clear the longer overall length. </div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7GkBwJQnmqJ42ufEKnzkNSLzMwEJSi2RREdr2JrKYej7fwQFUZSk8Gnu08B951hVBpsBH8bAEsWIn3cEO8mqBBRF0DAxI9wYmLOHbB1GBQI6oNxbAjTf0CTegWmMLEd_vrBXQk7eTiA1SO9Z2MBrVv3aw5Sb0n21yDHWsWp8Yt8mD5cnWMXedtO6diIK/s800/2024-03-09%2012.40.58.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7GkBwJQnmqJ42ufEKnzkNSLzMwEJSi2RREdr2JrKYej7fwQFUZSk8Gnu08B951hVBpsBH8bAEsWIn3cEO8mqBBRF0DAxI9wYmLOHbB1GBQI6oNxbAjTf0CTegWmMLEd_vrBXQk7eTiA1SO9Z2MBrVv3aw5Sb0n21yDHWsWp8Yt8mD5cnWMXedtO6diIK/w640-h360/2024-03-09%2012.40.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I also fitted handles to make sliding the traverser easier with one hand, without knocking stock off the near track. These are on the sides of the upper, rotating deck to give finger clearance above the edge of the frame, so there's one each side - they were cheap off Amazon so why not. Of course, although they came with two lengths of bolts, even the shortest were too long - but the Dremel sorted that easily enough. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uo5LWQW1G6RVix8R6gdZn04rNP8bPN6j7q420lVJv70JQ5YEjiM0CqL4qUazHsgL4SPZatkeuGxYuQDJI4YhO94BDVmwc-qBLir8r9-WcwuMu_3LVcbui8PkqhZfXvBeYJ6hWWY-hZ9fDhVjSiEZegIIsy7B9lHZklHl7K5zM-c2rmTFeRfOAF1EqtA8/s800/2024-03-10%2009.12.40.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="800" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uo5LWQW1G6RVix8R6gdZn04rNP8bPN6j7q420lVJv70JQ5YEjiM0CqL4qUazHsgL4SPZatkeuGxYuQDJI4YhO94BDVmwc-qBLir8r9-WcwuMu_3LVcbui8PkqhZfXvBeYJ6hWWY-hZ9fDhVjSiEZegIIsy7B9lHZklHl7K5zM-c2rmTFeRfOAF1EqtA8/w640-h398/2024-03-10%2009.12.40.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The forecast for Sunday suggested rain was likely, which isn't ideal when loading/unloading a layout. So, I decided to make a cover from foam-core board, similar to that on Loctern Quay. It simply spans the gap between the lighting pelmet and the top of the backscene, the triangular fillets at either end have a Velcro strip underneath that attach to the tops of the ends which holds everything in place. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've had the dimmer for a while, it was dirt cheap from China, and fitted neatly on the end of the light pelmet with more Velcro. With the layout covered restricting ambient light, turning down the layout lighting gives an effective dusk/dark effect that makes the building and lamp lights stand out. Plus, it means the power lead doesn't have to be threaded in through the small hole! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2M4P85pGh0uNqsLnTKkan8iV913xQWgpT2gUIuwb_Kz9hWJ1CqnhDAwlYV8KHm8eclXinpBN8C5FujJSBkeAbpeWXYhSGxEQz3UXXVBISvU9Sm_LhWkvrgy_NdcM-EAyPVdMhTFxSm0toIKrGCkjyto-7R5r3ki1hwwhLp_EXw-BJCDbVD9Vg7Al1dD-O/s800/2024-03-10%2009.11.36.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="800" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2M4P85pGh0uNqsLnTKkan8iV913xQWgpT2gUIuwb_Kz9hWJ1CqnhDAwlYV8KHm8eclXinpBN8C5FujJSBkeAbpeWXYhSGxEQz3UXXVBISvU9Sm_LhWkvrgy_NdcM-EAyPVdMhTFxSm0toIKrGCkjyto-7R5r3ki1hwwhLp_EXw-BJCDbVD9Vg7Al1dD-O/w640-h416/2024-03-10%2009.11.36.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>A view of the layout set up and ready for the show to open. Note the shelf on the trestle - useful for mugs, tools, and the controller. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-47034917853092430412024-03-11T23:16:00.002+00:002024-03-11T23:16:53.781+00:00Wealden Railway Group Show 2024<p>Of course this was the first time I'd loaded Hexworthy into the car, and indeed I'd changed cars since I started building it back in 2017, so I was glad it fitted - it was a bit tight! The exhibition was relatively local so getting there was easy, and unloading and set-up was stress free even though I was on my own at that point. It all went together well and everything worked too. There were a few minor snags - dodgy couplings despite the testing (and one that fell off), a loco that didn't want to run then did, and a short that couldn't be traced then went away as mysteriously as it came!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcr5qPVokeB89C8YO9ysPxO8F06wtc-M3OTDOByS4Co6RaEtWGgMR6xYfX7wkmsXsm1G6bKNDtmo9Q-Lk9m7rt5_oaOXoSreqawGuEd3Ih85xTzAyN9mSlhAirnuEX1xb3lSiIaEjuS08V87Lz-25RhVltBC9flTXRuOb85EH86VtZnZ8gFsfFHNkMXz4/s800/2024-03-10%2009.11.58.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="800" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcr5qPVokeB89C8YO9ysPxO8F06wtc-M3OTDOByS4Co6RaEtWGgMR6xYfX7wkmsXsm1G6bKNDtmo9Q-Lk9m7rt5_oaOXoSreqawGuEd3Ih85xTzAyN9mSlhAirnuEX1xb3lSiIaEjuS08V87Lz-25RhVltBC9flTXRuOb85EH86VtZnZ8gFsfFHNkMXz4/w640-h364/2024-03-10%2009.11.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The layout got a lot of complimentary comments, the playground attracted a lot of attention, and people seemed to like the details and the smooth, slow running. A big thanks to fellow Sussex Downs group member Edward Mallory for helping out, he did a good job of operating and with practice we both got better at finding the uncoupling magnet first time. With his help we got packed up in 20 minutes. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWWE8hqKvtx7iyl6aeZ3bndIoxjrTmNXmamVUJpdh6qfDJkrjrvISILGlk19KRNbmRqz06gi5XLtFiYLK4CTnDtM-az4UQTJ4dJy6cJHe6YtV2-DBRC-NSfU4ZVZRUX7Jy81ty1ZkZ_PwdlOUw1tE9yJBpG2YwlbSaeDJrUsMs970OuzSvxImN8MoqFNL/s800/IMG_3916.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="800" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWWE8hqKvtx7iyl6aeZ3bndIoxjrTmNXmamVUJpdh6qfDJkrjrvISILGlk19KRNbmRqz06gi5XLtFiYLK4CTnDtM-az4UQTJ4dJy6cJHe6YtV2-DBRC-NSfU4ZVZRUX7Jy81ty1ZkZ_PwdlOUw1tE9yJBpG2YwlbSaeDJrUsMs970OuzSvxImN8MoqFNL/w640-h430/IMG_3916.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It was nice to see this new German HO layout by Simon Hargraves, compact and simple it is nicely finished and with some unusual (to British eyes) stock. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMpjnQG_fLWeJ0E7yqnVZKaxTi_H_AhNeePjlfa6Z_91yzzzMgnW1w4dN2skhFi3NhnndSjWqi3FWEojG-memPXMSVQTn967KYf88PeSC2qnu3iOZ7ACGqcW_kgZ8Qr9Hz-cUQorCoFXHX96lyiqh03NxDW-GPpmInwuQKuazSfPPjaKXpNDpRLkihRDr/s800/IMG_3926.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMpjnQG_fLWeJ0E7yqnVZKaxTi_H_AhNeePjlfa6Z_91yzzzMgnW1w4dN2skhFi3NhnndSjWqi3FWEojG-memPXMSVQTn967KYf88PeSC2qnu3iOZ7ACGqcW_kgZ8Qr9Hz-cUQorCoFXHX96lyiqh03NxDW-GPpmInwuQKuazSfPPjaKXpNDpRLkihRDr/w640-h426/IMG_3926.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Svanda, the Norwegian HO layout by Nigel Hill and Chris Ford doesn't seem to get out as often as it should. An unusual subject, attractive scene, and nice smooth running. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7YHLl1cpfeMfed1Uuv9Mh7C21H6H1BsJWbM_SklNig1y5AavJRgEFJSQYFIxyjMmoc8tmZ_5E9BURTRFU2bKdZSm1VLKKwn3vDErXLdyhtfiHfdHYITvRi155Wk8iO8XIlOgRvksXpTZJvZIwfhO3UW_8Gx-unu1u-f4pWxYWIK-2ssJTGlL_2EyBjCD/s800/IMG_3938.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="800" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7YHLl1cpfeMfed1Uuv9Mh7C21H6H1BsJWbM_SklNig1y5AavJRgEFJSQYFIxyjMmoc8tmZ_5E9BURTRFU2bKdZSm1VLKKwn3vDErXLdyhtfiHfdHYITvRi155Wk8iO8XIlOgRvksXpTZJvZIwfhO3UW_8Gx-unu1u-f4pWxYWIK-2ssJTGlL_2EyBjCD/w640-h398/IMG_3938.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Ferness (1:32, 16.5mm gauge) is another Scottish estate-railway style layout by Ian Roberts, compact despite the large scale which allows lots of detail. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtttNDJLS3mm53983UHJtvXEOVZmJb5wzSSgtzcsnuqiOLaQGMtO7Q9bHyQY73klACbTzon2o6h4xpR3ibWEVu7SaDseT9l0FdKD9_107h5cGJRR6Hw7IfFu1bwjuifwhT6lEfC3E3MyX5ZL10HfiJlx3m1k_m2vcG3Nh-2GVFl0FkoNBzXMASzxSE_qr/s800/IMG_3959.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="800" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtttNDJLS3mm53983UHJtvXEOVZmJb5wzSSgtzcsnuqiOLaQGMtO7Q9bHyQY73klACbTzon2o6h4xpR3ibWEVu7SaDseT9l0FdKD9_107h5cGJRR6Hw7IfFu1bwjuifwhT6lEfC3E3MyX5ZL10HfiJlx3m1k_m2vcG3Nh-2GVFl0FkoNBzXMASzxSE_qr/w640-h430/IMG_3959.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Shellsea Harbour (OO) by Giles Barnabe is one of those layouts I think I'd like to build. Attractively set with scratch-built buildings, an interesting track plan despite being compact and without loop, and some quirky light-railway style trains. </p><p><a href="https://imgur.com/gallery/CteRRTS" target="_blank">More photos of the layouts can be found here.</a> </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-64713021493069354242024-03-09T21:31:00.006+00:002024-03-09T21:31:58.638+00:00Readying ready to run - part 3<p>It was time to bite the bullet, take a brave pill, and weather a whole batch of not exactly cheap Bachmann ready to run locos. The techniques are the same as described in the last post - water soluble oils and a faint misting of black from above and brown from below using the airbrush - the aim being for a clean but working preserved loco finish. </p><p>I must confess this was done a couple of weeks ago and the locos have sat around, doing test runs on the layout to check couplings etc., and now I see these photos seem to show a little dust picked up by the camera which I'd not noticed! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHl7Q7-WLxnjtK9erFv-gVRpCtFmWIHKyhhZyQE0S4W1v0usbHYGFDLdJzh8q3E-SperU0gEUTQGXu6HnJ6UhM3NRPCLsbahyphenhyphenvt63OFORphTZgberrt_IpufMiRBz6zBTDNwsMtsFotwX87zydu4b6LgT4hBt3ENZtDJzMTBSSc5vAIFkGi1qetgIgJMf-/s800/2024-03-08%2019.57.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHl7Q7-WLxnjtK9erFv-gVRpCtFmWIHKyhhZyQE0S4W1v0usbHYGFDLdJzh8q3E-SperU0gEUTQGXu6HnJ6UhM3NRPCLsbahyphenhyphenvt63OFORphTZgberrt_IpufMiRBz6zBTDNwsMtsFotwX87zydu4b6LgT4hBt3ENZtDJzMTBSSc5vAIFkGi1qetgIgJMf-/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2019.57.47.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Dorothea has been kept largely clean but the motion is oily and the smokebox dulled. The crew are by Model-U and were rather tricky to get stuck in place in the cab! All these Bachmann locos come with etched name and works plates which have been stuck in place with matt Modge Podge. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0VYza2ea3cqf74Ift9tjwAdAh_1dXAeh9DTvFVkZP10Ez6bxe5t0d0VGs8bTp6k04SCQd9nqPsiaQFjSUBXUEn4XLbc5GaoYVy7zAKgLAZ-EdaSjJKejxTOs_R3qU2vqtoOgyN6hizl2lBik8mqt5Lw9Dq9lxV3HWCH5y5U4O5RQSG6bsMA2l0oh48EG/s800/2024-03-08%2019.58.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0VYza2ea3cqf74Ift9tjwAdAh_1dXAeh9DTvFVkZP10Ez6bxe5t0d0VGs8bTp6k04SCQd9nqPsiaQFjSUBXUEn4XLbc5GaoYVy7zAKgLAZ-EdaSjJKejxTOs_R3qU2vqtoOgyN6hizl2lBik8mqt5Lw9Dq9lxV3HWCH5y5U4O5RQSG6bsMA2l0oh48EG/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2019.58.19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I've just noticed the mould line on the cylinder, must be less visible to the eye, but it's not easy to deal with without needing to match paint colour so I'll have to ignore it. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWmpyn6bhj1YPQio27dVqZOu3Sx-oeLat5-kas1_IbEwCLocYXWVMBm1BnMBJCSqVUJZJv9yiUG5PIKGp9rYok5ePhCdkSJQwAhSeprtEjAYYOxsHnSPMG3qBuC_yRN4OXm_msq38lAf70WvH4zXONT775mqaiuhSR-M8sqIKDBo39xVindgann9fR8mZ/s800/2024-03-08%2019.59.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWmpyn6bhj1YPQio27dVqZOu3Sx-oeLat5-kas1_IbEwCLocYXWVMBm1BnMBJCSqVUJZJv9yiUG5PIKGp9rYok5ePhCdkSJQwAhSeprtEjAYYOxsHnSPMG3qBuC_yRN4OXm_msq38lAf70WvH4zXONT775mqaiuhSR-M8sqIKDBo39xVindgann9fR8mZ/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2019.59.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The black wash toned down the brass dome and copper pipes nicely, as well as the prominent motion. The Model-U crew must be posed for the FR Ladies as the chap this side is in a driving pose, fortunately it's not too obvious and his hand rests on the bunker rather than the cab-side. The bunker had a sliver of sponge foam inserted topped with crushed coal. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdDk6GIQ2wCgwgJKTKQsVsDYaAB-pw8yJR3XBlwx4WtiR9JmUdG9B4UszdYqRFPh-9J7Tl-zi8G3lFA_P55e2WLCXgLwwtfH3wdPUISCbRsBvqDV6-jpOEBtBASfccxEvm0oFpwsifzJft688qrCzLrntgf71Y1ZoLe6R-rIAgUr3aPh5GBBcDqsMBrcz5/s800/2024-03-08%2019.59.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="800" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdDk6GIQ2wCgwgJKTKQsVsDYaAB-pw8yJR3XBlwx4WtiR9JmUdG9B4UszdYqRFPh-9J7Tl-zi8G3lFA_P55e2WLCXgLwwtfH3wdPUISCbRsBvqDV6-jpOEBtBASfccxEvm0oFpwsifzJft688qrCzLrntgf71Y1ZoLe6R-rIAgUr3aPh5GBBcDqsMBrcz5/w640-h482/2024-03-08%2019.59.52.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The other crew member leans both hands nicely on the cab side, which is slightly worrying if he's meant to be driving! The prominent injector pipework looks much better for the black wash. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5t4UxUEhLSI54-YrVt9FBAEKijH501AmkaziVTYA3J-r3-iwzgDpmz0AIqfhTj5MstsXhCozBoKFnGH3ctDXcdXbYZ0oQIfPf9Ja6UtaTEviZj0B75lCF72dTroCU5u9WRFNxNGD3lABThkY3XrDIKCtYpjFsvgt9dHJuojmWEUi14-WOFFk81DrLl5Al/s800/2024-03-08%2020.01.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5t4UxUEhLSI54-YrVt9FBAEKijH501AmkaziVTYA3J-r3-iwzgDpmz0AIqfhTj5MstsXhCozBoKFnGH3ctDXcdXbYZ0oQIfPf9Ja6UtaTEviZj0B75lCF72dTroCU5u9WRFNxNGD3lABThkY3XrDIKCtYpjFsvgt9dHJuojmWEUi14-WOFFk81DrLl5Al/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2020.01.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Linda shows a little dirt on her buffer beam as well as a dulled smokebox and oily motion, but the paintwork still shines. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5OgX5NtsL6ja7QZGp5W2aZtfqFZHP4zPh84PPk32j0jWvB-zdTrZwsU9nBCeIJmuOTeS5Uu4RCD53yuuyOEzgSqO46lLjJvsroC5F_gEbbK-luicA_bf9Qyn8H0wEq2W3ka1kydwAxGhOQbbkR5pKp2vYLsrXalaV6gOPAkcmydA1nU8GDpCXh0eGcxC/s800/2024-03-08%2020.01.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5OgX5NtsL6ja7QZGp5W2aZtfqFZHP4zPh84PPk32j0jWvB-zdTrZwsU9nBCeIJmuOTeS5Uu4RCD53yuuyOEzgSqO46lLjJvsroC5F_gEbbK-luicA_bf9Qyn8H0wEq2W3ka1kydwAxGhOQbbkR5pKp2vYLsrXalaV6gOPAkcmydA1nU8GDpCXh0eGcxC/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2020.01.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Model-U "open cab" crew fit nicely, the driver the correct side this time and does appear to be in control, and I've posed the fireman in the tender because it looks interesting and allows the best view of the cab detail (and firebox glow). I couldn't see if the moulded coal load could be removed (and didn't fancy taking it apart to find out), so it's coaled up like it's about to haul the Flying Scotsman up the East Coast Main Line. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecFu0SItIMToK4OI97T4XQ_Ohuwmupv4kDWh11AgH1Sy632hBuk2lPHUifiSn0LUdpdUE1u0a74DwKX0HPgf4M4UYlhAlp1TQPBk0ZuVhyZq5pgQ067kEEnb_s5AyaBn9s1qP2dsGAmJgC8694lRgcqXdhmeIbfL9QNeeHejXoU1YFpeYBpTjfAB5I3hY/s800/2024-03-08%2020.03.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecFu0SItIMToK4OI97T4XQ_Ohuwmupv4kDWh11AgH1Sy632hBuk2lPHUifiSn0LUdpdUE1u0a74DwKX0HPgf4M4UYlhAlp1TQPBk0ZuVhyZq5pgQ067kEEnb_s5AyaBn9s1qP2dsGAmJgC8694lRgcqXdhmeIbfL9QNeeHejXoU1YFpeYBpTjfAB5I3hY/w640-h480/2024-03-08%2020.03.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Double Fairlie got a little grime around the frame below the cab, the bank of whistles and the area behind the dome got the oily wash treatment, and the top of the boiler shows slight evidence of soot (black spray). A Model-U crew was the only way to go with this tight cab and even they don't seem keen to be inside it! The driver is reaching for the regulator, sadly his arm is about a scale 6" too short to reach but no-one can see that!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qR4_ssqMD9d9wODwNG8CO4wGIJeadn-RSmOmTwchrxdaI37NkRHJZh7GZd5RTnRw78ps_Uvdte4kTBhG3ZoN2MFjAKI6zGw5WhIQdQHq9HDaGwbVzW2N9MqF_9D80fV_29Hf7tz0wshxNlmAxXnh-nVdGnlyCY3ULSyNZ5CPRNk67RgxGsAPfo511MPv/s800/2024-03-08%2020.04.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="800" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8qR4_ssqMD9d9wODwNG8CO4wGIJeadn-RSmOmTwchrxdaI37NkRHJZh7GZd5RTnRw78ps_Uvdte4kTBhG3ZoN2MFjAKI6zGw5WhIQdQHq9HDaGwbVzW2N9MqF_9D80fV_29Hf7tz0wshxNlmAxXnh-nVdGnlyCY3ULSyNZ5CPRNk67RgxGsAPfo511MPv/w640-h438/2024-03-08%2020.04.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The fireman is looking a bit confused, perhaps he lost his shovel. In this case I found the coal loads could be popped out of the bunkers, which are of course only as deep as the tank tops, but at least the coal didn't have to be piled quite so high. The real coal makes a big difference here as it does with Linda, plastic coal just doesn't pass. </p><p>These locos don't show obvious signs of weathering, and probably at a glance they don't look weathered just as a preserved loco looks clean. However, the subtle changes make a difference and they seem more natural and at home on the layout. </p><p>All locos ready, all stock tested, hopefully all ready for Hexworthy's first exhibition tomorrow. There were a few last minute jobs, I'll update on those next week...</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-37843743588057349822024-03-05T23:56:00.003+00:002024-03-05T23:56:33.972+00:00Readying ready to run - Part 2<p>I've collected several ready-to-run locos since they have started to become available in 009 and Hexworthy is an ideal place to run them. However, as with the Peco coaches, there is something about a pristine RTR loco that jars in a layout setting. They are just <i>too </i>clean. Now I don't want to model heavily weathered almost derelict locos, I'm modelling a preserved railway setting so locos would be kept clean, but even so a working loco will not be box-fresh pristine as soot settles from above, paint dulls due to heat, oil builds up on and near moving parts, and brake and track dirt is thrown up from below.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYIqvON6ejuL1058KKfMUU7A-Z1MlMMJH8H5dIOK3hOo-MuFXbBU88ddTkbfPxgwonmUTH8AeAe9WJAlEj9N29bE4vyIcJ-9rJifhdvKP5slmPfD7S17eHebySdL9x6vhNVJV6wYI-O1Mn0dC-ipI9tdPn7Wv4e3c-X3a8xKnC2OJ1escCHb-K3TV4HKJ/s800/2024-03-04%2021.37.00.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYIqvON6ejuL1058KKfMUU7A-Z1MlMMJH8H5dIOK3hOo-MuFXbBU88ddTkbfPxgwonmUTH8AeAe9WJAlEj9N29bE4vyIcJ-9rJifhdvKP5slmPfD7S17eHebySdL9x6vhNVJV6wYI-O1Mn0dC-ipI9tdPn7Wv4e3c-X3a8xKnC2OJ1escCHb-K3TV4HKJ/w640-h456/2024-03-04%2021.37.00.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So here's my attempt at making Exe look used but clean. If you can't tell much difference from a fresh model, that's kind of the point, but subtle differences are there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Having had issues with enamel-based washes starting to lift the lining on Nesta (fortunately recovered) and not having good results with dilute acrylics I was looking for a new solution. I've a couple of Vallejo ready-to-use washes which work well, but having seen the results of someone using water-soluble oil paints I thought I'd try them. The paints are found in art shops. A little paint is dissolved in water and used as a wash, the concentration can be varied as can how much is applied, but it can also be removed with a damp brush, cotton bud or kitchen towel while damp meaning it is very controllable. I've used a dirty brown mix on underframes and buffer beams, and black in spots where soot/oil might accumulate (like between boiler and side tanks), over brass and copper (it tones them down nicely) and on the motion too. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZzN3s6tjyEc-IrRLZvAgRpjNj6L8o_H93hmSDbqrN5LmT1VTOX1qh6Z76ZCr_hu1bBJ1ag5HsOonfJiz1uPLEjMPRxCfXlris_2A2hc70-xAP1w7Xnly8NiQQ4dQbj7IKvrEXIB62qDWzIuc-e4qGGziNEAFtEaMPRQG3Olgq2XzurZmU7dXEnzeNtA0/s800/2024-02-23%2008.37.49.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="706" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZzN3s6tjyEc-IrRLZvAgRpjNj6L8o_H93hmSDbqrN5LmT1VTOX1qh6Z76ZCr_hu1bBJ1ag5HsOonfJiz1uPLEjMPRxCfXlris_2A2hc70-xAP1w7Xnly8NiQQ4dQbj7IKvrEXIB62qDWzIuc-e4qGGziNEAFtEaMPRQG3Olgq2XzurZmU7dXEnzeNtA0/w564-h640/2024-02-23%2008.37.49.jpg" width="564" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>With my recent increase in confidence with the airbrush I took the brave decision to use it for weathering locos. As with the coaches I've used a mid brown misted very lightly over frames and buffer beams, and black misted very lightly over the cab roof, smokebox, footplate, and a little over the boiler and tank tops. This is done by winding in the "end stop" at the tail of the airbrush (it probably has a proper name) until the needle stops opening with just a faint mist emerging, this means I can spray without risking a wobbly finger causing an unexpected splurge of paint. Better to spend time building up a level of weathering than accidentally overdoing it. The down-side is such a small nozzle opening can block up so every so often the stop is unwound, the needle opened fully and paint sprayed until it is flowing easily again, before winding the stop back in. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOzKNzBsY_6h6iGsiAX2mMBKehQFtbbt0WWVF_oD1trqQStOK5WzeXpuyjdCDPb5n1QklDPmTB89lNmHMwXY9czxJLMtKmuuliAE0P5dIHXuX0prENsf6S6xp0N_rHxBANgXP07MAN54VX-gtWTyBVzJn5tuk-qKqdEvRy_cN15p3sZfJnZGG2H55SyDKr/s800/2024-02-17%2015.30.10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="800" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOzKNzBsY_6h6iGsiAX2mMBKehQFtbbt0WWVF_oD1trqQStOK5WzeXpuyjdCDPb5n1QklDPmTB89lNmHMwXY9czxJLMtKmuuliAE0P5dIHXuX0prENsf6S6xp0N_rHxBANgXP07MAN54VX-gtWTyBVzJn5tuk-qKqdEvRy_cN15p3sZfJnZGG2H55SyDKr/w640-h382/2024-02-17%2015.30.10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>I've also painted another batch of people, including crew figures from Faller, Dapol, and Model-U. There are also some "civilians" at the back which I will come back to later. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZpe_G9h73ZeHFZehVJvc-f5VbylrJujvB9nWxmcp9nNxSYIOXgDAa1XDpVJH70C5RFzcYigi2PiPf9Bc4IhY61BoIaQvzHL5Id_hmCD6qMBTpFIPWDP_hRuJv6Laz5j-04ZMekXJHu5cHEmQi-WMhOdFZ766zzXdZ54ZGf63Ac0lQcmKxzhpvcp1ZbJB/s800/2024-02-17%2019.26.47.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="800" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZpe_G9h73ZeHFZehVJvc-f5VbylrJujvB9nWxmcp9nNxSYIOXgDAa1XDpVJH70C5RFzcYigi2PiPf9Bc4IhY61BoIaQvzHL5Id_hmCD6qMBTpFIPWDP_hRuJv6Laz5j-04ZMekXJHu5cHEmQi-WMhOdFZ766zzXdZ54ZGf63Ac0lQcmKxzhpvcp1ZbJB/w640-h424/2024-02-17%2019.26.47.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So here's Exe from another angle. I may have overdone the track dirt up the rear, but the sides remain clean. The motion and pipework are toned down and look oily, while the cab roof, tank top and footplate are a more matt, sooty finish. The boiler top is a little sooty too. Hopefully a superficially clean but used look. A Dapol figure stands in the cab, getting him in was like getting a ship in a bottle! I figured one was enough, and still allows some of the interior detail to be seen. Finally, the bunkers have been filled with crushed coal. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitENZSp97jbrcY3_rXWUpO1pN6aQ9JEsuCrdYOnGPYIeOFZnuF3MQgQs14MAw1-kuyBTZ8WDiYtiAjwLxzQbVOL8XIggd2Z1ECpgPpb4JTdRxFvHks91wxFAbJeNEzAe3seHuhY1dJ4tY_bUgRHsvzOTYjz4cVwZNMn3_tZGSCmZfUifaZDBu24-xscpG0/s800/2024-03-04%2021.37.16.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="800" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitENZSp97jbrcY3_rXWUpO1pN6aQ9JEsuCrdYOnGPYIeOFZnuF3MQgQs14MAw1-kuyBTZ8WDiYtiAjwLxzQbVOL8XIggd2Z1ECpgPpb4JTdRxFvHks91wxFAbJeNEzAe3seHuhY1dJ4tY_bUgRHsvzOTYjz4cVwZNMn3_tZGSCmZfUifaZDBu24-xscpG0/w640-h452/2024-03-04%2021.37.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Kato Prince comes with "brass" knobs to fit to the sand pots and tender, these are on a sprue "tool" which is cut off the main sprue and used to place the knob in the hole before being twisted off. Spares are provided which is useful as I broke one in the wrong place, but it is the work of a few minutes to fit them. I also glued a strip of microstrip to the vertical support for the slide bars, as the flat metal looked a bit too flat.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxZeURxu_mVypYGVMSfvfLA3iRm7WZZaY-YE8TG9lpYsnpvxsiYIZS_K_-g195mzXBGNGZ3D02eMc11Ai4zCpt6Ar38bV-9Ckth-UDkDySDyQln8ZtCvrutk8QmUSxcVIHh84lLvaqvkkl1lrg5kwvB6YK50r-gHrrWR211Vqhp9Bk4nocw_jPFmngEqI/s800/2024-01-07%2016.25.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="800" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxZeURxu_mVypYGVMSfvfLA3iRm7WZZaY-YE8TG9lpYsnpvxsiYIZS_K_-g195mzXBGNGZ3D02eMc11Ai4zCpt6Ar38bV-9Ckth-UDkDySDyQln8ZtCvrutk8QmUSxcVIHh84lLvaqvkkl1lrg5kwvB6YK50r-gHrrWR211Vqhp9Bk4nocw_jPFmngEqI/w640-h382/2024-01-07%2016.25.33.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>The can is tiny. Fortunately, it is easy to unclip (removing the blower pipe first helps), but even using Faller HO figures they needed their feet and heads filing down until they fitted under the (overscale thickness) roof. Of course, once in there they can hardly be seen, but nor can the basic interior. I installed a figure in the tender too, as often seen on the prototype! The plastic addition to the slide bar support was painted with gunmetal metalcote, as were some details under the cab. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3pzlwQ7NWxMsWu4sxpfJl80exikeQo8BS1L5JLhF8RfgV4PAVuAEYUjZhW0KOpVtWSdSOKNF-pvCiIb4ME4tpgkUPRmkXCQe_lR92pQdw3GY3Pz9XYBXsidWfUhQdx_z8aWiDXF11y_8t0C_ZA6e8WcBPD2gdM7QLWRV9Ekv1IEhfxF17GqXbCAtbNAJ/s800/2024-03-03%2023.45.20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="800" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3pzlwQ7NWxMsWu4sxpfJl80exikeQo8BS1L5JLhF8RfgV4PAVuAEYUjZhW0KOpVtWSdSOKNF-pvCiIb4ME4tpgkUPRmkXCQe_lR92pQdw3GY3Pz9XYBXsidWfUhQdx_z8aWiDXF11y_8t0C_ZA6e8WcBPD2gdM7QLWRV9Ekv1IEhfxF17GqXbCAtbNAJ/w640-h448/2024-03-03%2023.45.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Again, the weathering aim is clean but used. A hint of the dark wash around the whistles, dome, and tank filler plus a misting of airbrushed "soot" makes the top of the tank look like it betrays a hard day's work, but not neglect. Real coal was added over the moulded plastic load. I've also fitted staples to the Peco coupling droppers for magnetic uncoupling. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbS_6HN_N0GOCUwo8e27sykV7kjxYBbQaZwZnaq4GKTbuGn7WEh3xavNVCzTRGxcDZzCwspnes0Fh2IUGb5e7RgAodRdRUuNnc6QT9pydo9Uhu2O3Vr6f_gsdPOPKKo73jmayD-BjzhgYb5uy_IbfLctfYJUOGkrgYaQRYAm5U-7cz-xnCAI9d445TGfI/s800/2024-03-03%2023.45.12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="800" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbS_6HN_N0GOCUwo8e27sykV7kjxYBbQaZwZnaq4GKTbuGn7WEh3xavNVCzTRGxcDZzCwspnes0Fh2IUGb5e7RgAodRdRUuNnc6QT9pydo9Uhu2O3Vr6f_gsdPOPKKo73jmayD-BjzhgYb5uy_IbfLctfYJUOGkrgYaQRYAm5U-7cz-xnCAI9d445TGfI/w640-h382/2024-03-03%2023.45.12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><p>Next time, the rest of the RTR loco fleet...</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-46621749384073678372024-02-29T22:25:00.001+00:002024-02-29T22:25:14.558+00:00Hexworthy prepares for its first show<p>Hexworthy will be on show at the Wealden Railway Group exhibition in Steyning in 10 days time. Do say hello if you are able to get there. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-EM0MTFGbyfxedCRdMcFaSxbJBU6tYuJyTicH3irVJkQIv4rLSgYUUh6dfhdc6hR5ACq_QjL0neYFm2QRl_6S_6J6MERsf_vnE-fOf6xrcSsPIeovNpRfa7hv6uKH516K1HNm5Q3v1P8u_5-gnT6-HoYXzOGF_GgqoQnw4t_WLmHrEKjCH8TlNvRga24/s1019/WRG%202024%20show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="699" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-EM0MTFGbyfxedCRdMcFaSxbJBU6tYuJyTicH3irVJkQIv4rLSgYUUh6dfhdc6hR5ACq_QjL0neYFm2QRl_6S_6J6MERsf_vnE-fOf6xrcSsPIeovNpRfa7hv6uKH516K1HNm5Q3v1P8u_5-gnT6-HoYXzOGF_GgqoQnw4t_WLmHrEKjCH8TlNvRga24/w440-h640/WRG%202024%20show.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><p>I've been working hard to get the layout ready for this it's first exhibition. I've been preparing a few more details to add and stock to run, and expect to be doing some test running this weekend. Hopefully all will be ready and working on the day! Here's a taster of how it might look...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pIVCV7683L7-VnJi9T69UnjiO9-75CznBeCCxhyphenhyphenZEzj7SyYLarZqjg-7fBPW8LozTPFncE7OD5znzWNcckizhaUhfV7l__qovEmiwbSztN3p0_WqK0DG3ynkK_5JdQ3aYupXNGVqjpIERIENUbFBM_j9WShJ915n1MXNs65oXtFxGEev6XdfC4JN9Wn6/s800/P1050396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pIVCV7683L7-VnJi9T69UnjiO9-75CznBeCCxhyphenhyphenZEzj7SyYLarZqjg-7fBPW8LozTPFncE7OD5znzWNcckizhaUhfV7l__qovEmiwbSztN3p0_WqK0DG3ynkK_5JdQ3aYupXNGVqjpIERIENUbFBM_j9WShJ915n1MXNs65oXtFxGEev6XdfC4JN9Wn6/w640-h360/P1050396.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1T7xsklFfNHjDOQPZbZHloh5A0OJ6xnyNf8Z9XvFVVXGUPAkQX2PleP5YLWQWQor2zdVkiAblQIqmy1-GprJuD3jbvVRXyixG5NwPeaJHuDDnj-y0UICwUAIj20JihZPy0JdQCvJNahlmiJaszena7Cclc6ICNF4XntGBojdWOsEoSJ4Y1Mr981ygte0P/s800/P1050403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1T7xsklFfNHjDOQPZbZHloh5A0OJ6xnyNf8Z9XvFVVXGUPAkQX2PleP5YLWQWQor2zdVkiAblQIqmy1-GprJuD3jbvVRXyixG5NwPeaJHuDDnj-y0UICwUAIj20JihZPy0JdQCvJNahlmiJaszena7Cclc6ICNF4XntGBojdWOsEoSJ4Y1Mr981ygte0P/w640-h360/P1050403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-82527412519227462572024-02-22T21:50:00.000+00:002024-02-22T21:50:59.805+00:00Car unwash<p>I've acquired a couple of road vehicles for Hexworthy, a ubiquitous Transit van and a Land Rover Defender. Both are nicely detailed models by Oxford Diecast, with interiors, UK number plates, and rubber tyres, but they are rather <i>too </i>shiny and clean...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR87kZc4AGDFpbX75QtBwDwcYzkeIriMuOA5emFU4SNX-bifhYxVMGmhBWr1bKndwPrX2pzXyWcb9pVANDmyxQbHCX6vKpvAp4v_rviYBOcS6S73l90MKcWEGKRG-H5FrhUHqjipR__F-kw49p6TjByuXrLdFfaTCSoiWgptvxU_L8ZbL6OGPu0PbynueI/s800/2024-02-15%2013.24.45.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR87kZc4AGDFpbX75QtBwDwcYzkeIriMuOA5emFU4SNX-bifhYxVMGmhBWr1bKndwPrX2pzXyWcb9pVANDmyxQbHCX6vKpvAp4v_rviYBOcS6S73l90MKcWEGKRG-H5FrhUHqjipR__F-kw49p6TjByuXrLdFfaTCSoiWgptvxU_L8ZbL6OGPu0PbynueI/w640-h456/2024-02-15%2013.24.45.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So I disassembled them, which is easy as they are simply screwed together (I've drilled out many rivets under toy Hotwheels cars for my Son to customise!). Removing the wheels, glazing, and interior allows weathering as follows:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Rubbed down the paintwork with very fine emery and a fibreglass pencil to tone down the shine</li><li>Cut off the mounting screw mounts under the Land Rover, as its high ground clearance made them visible</li><li>The Transit van got dry-brushed rust (enamel) paint around the wheel arches, sills, gutter, and some panel edges - not too much, just a hint suggesting a long life</li><li>Plastic bumpers were painted, almost black on the Land Rover and dark grey on the Transit van</li><li>Window recesses were touched in with black paint where not already painted black</li><li>A dark brown wash was applied and partially rubbed off, filling panel gaps and toning down the paint slightly. A black wash was applied to the wheels. I've started using Vallejo washes, they're convenient and work well</li><li>A muddy brown was then airbrushed along the sills and around the wheel-arches, and up the rear of the vehicles from below, plus a little on the tyres</li><li>Finally, the bodies got a spray of Testors Dullcote (with headlights masked) before being re-assembled</li></ul></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJiDUBZ-Zs5R-3zIyZKetvzBsgUOQH6ctE0l0iViwtgjxEW88bQ1UoBS5KJLrG90L-JLgFCxXVSiAy_hb9IC34-k-z_T20c3Wf59_KR6OXm03o3-SkbkQuKAYbtJ4zpY6aQxL08x9kDz_FQdhYdj7sEV6j0ucxhXm-8L6QINxQXu1YHdiMz8jLny96gKpN/s800/2024-02-17%2022.18.12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="800" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJiDUBZ-Zs5R-3zIyZKetvzBsgUOQH6ctE0l0iViwtgjxEW88bQ1UoBS5KJLrG90L-JLgFCxXVSiAy_hb9IC34-k-z_T20c3Wf59_KR6OXm03o3-SkbkQuKAYbtJ4zpY6aQxL08x9kDz_FQdhYdj7sEV6j0ucxhXm-8L6QINxQXu1YHdiMz8jLny96gKpN/w640-h442/2024-02-17%2022.18.12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The Transit van is on 1989 plates so I gave it heavier weathering with touches of rust showing through, and faded bumpers (the black plastics of vehicles of that era seemed to fade to grey very quickly). I also painted the interior a darker shade of mid-grey as it seemed a bit pale. It is lacking wing mirrors which I may have a go at making, but they would be rather delicate. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Su7LOpZMZuWwtQGAdt2AiTJau1krXqTmYjUV02m3i0OBenk9BJQlEu-INEj4AY1RRsS4poSueqH-UEbSwsKLmQCJd-9eU_pjI9KbKm08qrxfLEhP7FVAoe18bMxdVaa_aXtjNHBrQa7H-GPUG2mypNya-UglLZ5Mwi68yddXvMeSUbOiSKDQmhJJ1BNb/s800/2024-02-17%2022.17.34.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Su7LOpZMZuWwtQGAdt2AiTJau1krXqTmYjUV02m3i0OBenk9BJQlEu-INEj4AY1RRsS4poSueqH-UEbSwsKLmQCJd-9eU_pjI9KbKm08qrxfLEhP7FVAoe18bMxdVaa_aXtjNHBrQa7H-GPUG2mypNya-UglLZ5Mwi68yddXvMeSUbOiSKDQmhJJ1BNb/w640-h456/2024-02-17%2022.17.34.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Land Rover is on 2012 plates so much newer, consequently I was much lighter on the weathering. There is still a light wash to bring out the panel gap shadows and mud behind the wheel-arches as befits a vehicle that is presumably used on country lanes a lot. The black wash on the wheels has filled the "blind" holes in the alloys, improving their looks.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXwLZ-yu73WG2DZwnyZoyrMV6N0TWRoMrBlFkSiDOzVzPwGx4sJthvszygb7RMkur4QMr1OynLqJKg-3jcfCEiivPzrBeTu-hIJ9p8QLVcJTB2e6cWL06qNsyHdSy5wxawnF814Y-vt-fmi_nkaG9WpZVY60gMP2FHNBM4_UnrnhTKNcNm1b-NNf1nJf7y/s800/2024-02-17%2022.17.14.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="800" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXwLZ-yu73WG2DZwnyZoyrMV6N0TWRoMrBlFkSiDOzVzPwGx4sJthvszygb7RMkur4QMr1OynLqJKg-3jcfCEiivPzrBeTu-hIJ9p8QLVcJTB2e6cWL06qNsyHdSy5wxawnF814Y-vt-fmi_nkaG9WpZVY60gMP2FHNBM4_UnrnhTKNcNm1b-NNf1nJf7y/w640-h368/2024-02-17%2022.17.14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm very pleased with the results, they've lost the deep glossy finish and look more realistic, with signs of real-world use and different ageing. </div>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-29787121705169913992024-02-19T23:32:00.000+00:002024-02-19T23:32:14.101+00:00Hexworthy dry-run<p>Ahead of its first exhibition next month I thought I should do a dry-run of setting up the layout in its exhibition format. You may remember the <a href="https://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2023/10/the-ultimate-fiddle-yard-refinements.html">exhibition fiddle-yard</a>, which was fitted to the layout for testing. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNZwJ-Djl92p5ctwwTWLTBm2rnDhTC0mCRZ0PQ6zCUVIZBD46RaFMFeItZB3ChnZcSDUlZRfumkBLLfn2o6F3u0xPnoMoxkcuI1zLp7uTsdLpZuodebdmLf-WVZrmvYziPABibsM7OMP5aJVHJDntdrOWkPkRowu8xyetm7mAymaKa3SXCOvOSoDz9BoAa/s800/2023-09-24%2016.29.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="800" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNZwJ-Djl92p5ctwwTWLTBm2rnDhTC0mCRZ0PQ6zCUVIZBD46RaFMFeItZB3ChnZcSDUlZRfumkBLLfn2o6F3u0xPnoMoxkcuI1zLp7uTsdLpZuodebdmLf-WVZrmvYziPABibsM7OMP5aJVHJDntdrOWkPkRowu8xyetm7mAymaKa3SXCOvOSoDz9BoAa/w640-h474/2023-09-24%2016.29.33.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Although only completed a few months ago, I found several issues, including the track being completely dead - traced to a loose wire. Also the rails didn't line up well with the station board, maybe I didn't do a good job first time but a soldering iron soon fixed that. More seriously, the "latch-release" lever didn't release the alignment latches effectively making the traverser difficult to use smoothly, and the far end latch didn't always engage. Investigation revealed that the dowel across the board rotated by the lever was starting to split, while the dowel that ran along the board to release the far latch didn't slide smoothly. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoRsK2u_XNjFbtj4FMg3I0Rm6LKSoUIp0Yhf_sAA8xk2XSB1LoyoUOrNEGLZTL-8WLpVptZ-I1o5AyC1yUtpLW0ZWUKCuW2c1d86_peTnmiatuqMYiGwmiQExYb9J8PQ9Q-p_3ldRJFjjLNXHx5QcfKPVQardz87PHUT42tx0zgHjkJjMWJaL4Npbj5Fl/s800/2024-02-10%2017.02.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="638" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFoRsK2u_XNjFbtj4FMg3I0Rm6LKSoUIp0Yhf_sAA8xk2XSB1LoyoUOrNEGLZTL-8WLpVptZ-I1o5AyC1yUtpLW0ZWUKCuW2c1d86_peTnmiatuqMYiGwmiQExYb9J8PQ9Q-p_3ldRJFjjLNXHx5QcfKPVQardz87PHUT42tx0zgHjkJjMWJaL4Npbj5Fl/w510-h640/2024-02-10%2017.02.41.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I found some 10mm dowel so used this to replace the rotating shaft across the board, this should be have much more torsional strength. The operating lever was beefed up too. The latch release lever for the near latch was re-fixed, and the connection to the second dowel made with a screw through a slotted hole rather than a bent paperclip. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSNG4EZlyIFEErXHLydksgPUaJpAQknbsKkjMJ4Ve8478Qi0G3akB8gRhJsm6DC3pQnYH31KwNILfEpf8M6NiPrBJa43rOhlGa-bxeT-A3pZ3lnma0Z99REfEVT0GiU7gSwDn5iXusu0pX_3q1r87hCDBmkCuZu8mF37it8JWMwyWOdwqlkmENEiKhhbu/s800/2024-02-10%2017.02.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSNG4EZlyIFEErXHLydksgPUaJpAQknbsKkjMJ4Ve8478Qi0G3akB8gRhJsm6DC3pQnYH31KwNILfEpf8M6NiPrBJa43rOhlGa-bxeT-A3pZ3lnma0Z99REfEVT0GiU7gSwDn5iXusu0pX_3q1r87hCDBmkCuZu8mF37it8JWMwyWOdwqlkmENEiKhhbu/w640-h360/2024-02-10%2017.02.47.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The dowel operating the far latch was removed and the holes opened up more so it moved smoothly. As well as the improved connection to the lever, a spring was added to pull the release away from the latch when the handle is released, ensuring the latch is free to engage. Hopefully these changes will make the mechanism robust enough to work through exhibitions. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzd7vjTxpFuM2SGcVHoUdTDPZUqYwbzZqN5EwtGfU-vWETXQy_ABDxf9i6ebzTviCBbr-lg_b7HM3g_cvTbHY2j3qT0xzDvj7kISYaYEurk9rhTRgAI1KNCaEpAdr_fZtVElbU74FDnGYpzyTxLhMmY6s5-MZT2L4UKQ8H5cr1bgsEOSD05K7qrk2Tlu3/s800/2024-02-10%2018.02.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="486" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzd7vjTxpFuM2SGcVHoUdTDPZUqYwbzZqN5EwtGfU-vWETXQy_ABDxf9i6ebzTviCBbr-lg_b7HM3g_cvTbHY2j3qT0xzDvj7kISYaYEurk9rhTRgAI1KNCaEpAdr_fZtVElbU74FDnGYpzyTxLhMmY6s5-MZT2L4UKQ8H5cr1bgsEOSD05K7qrk2Tlu3/w388-h640/2024-02-10%2018.02.40.jpg" width="388" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I also brought the supporting legs in from the garage, having dusted off the spiders, their webs and nests. These were made for Awngate and haven't been used for several years, they consist of a pair of folding trestles and a pair of L-section beams that span between them, bolted in place. The front beam is inverted with a flat top, the lip of the rear beam prevents the layout slipping off rearward. The assembly is sturdy and still seems to do its job well enough, although the beams are just 4' long, but Hexworthy is 4' 6" plus the fiddle yard - close to 7' in total. As the boards are rigidly joined the overhangs either end aren't really an issue, but I could make some longer beams provided they still fit in the car. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-gm1u7sphqgO8HmLSOuHm0a2ucgCilRW7jMRPjGwuCyttVAMhnayv3POW6VZDBlEXYGxptaJRClsX0UTxU26uQu3r42Xu7BVjiYdXCRy0KOxtXspMXbYWNTl6UY0hvt82kQ7yfM6K6YslgEVxGXp-bMK6RB9t5lcAoetYbMNZhiKO3mpRK9HOdXK85U3/s800/2024-02-10%2018.03.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="417" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-gm1u7sphqgO8HmLSOuHm0a2ucgCilRW7jMRPjGwuCyttVAMhnayv3POW6VZDBlEXYGxptaJRClsX0UTxU26uQu3r42Xu7BVjiYdXCRy0KOxtXspMXbYWNTl6UY0hvt82kQ7yfM6K6YslgEVxGXp-bMK6RB9t5lcAoetYbMNZhiKO3mpRK9HOdXK85U3/w334-h640/2024-02-10%2018.03.17.jpg" width="334" /></a></div><p>The trestles are 2' wide, the layout sits with its front to the edge of the trestles. I have a longer drape that could cover the end of the trestle better, it's held with drawing pins and trapped in place by the layout. This set-up doesn't take long nor take up a lot of space in the car, and as seen it can serve different layouts. The height is about 3' 8", with track level at 4' for this layout. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxa3Ehjbfu0KzJ81A7LTRAeeJwbeypH0Kq_RwaMeZHxd4oH2jVg85Mp2Huv3_CZMrUaDVez7BU8ktyxtXqNcPLMDvmXCmq6xuJUySElynvd4njjA4FPx9XXWngzZhsOxkiFG__Oa7K_HHwwX4pZHfcxL2I4MQ7j0Jp2-2-NCV_7VicO0i-Sx0ZXio7adtg/s800/2024-02-10%2018.03.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="800" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxa3Ehjbfu0KzJ81A7LTRAeeJwbeypH0Kq_RwaMeZHxd4oH2jVg85Mp2Huv3_CZMrUaDVez7BU8ktyxtXqNcPLMDvmXCmq6xuJUySElynvd4njjA4FPx9XXWngzZhsOxkiFG__Oa7K_HHwwX4pZHfcxL2I4MQ7j0Jp2-2-NCV_7VicO0i-Sx0ZXio7adtg/w640-h386/2024-02-10%2018.03.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-21441912872403736182024-02-10T23:35:00.001+00:002024-02-10T23:35:47.309+00:00Readying ready to run<p>I've a lot of small tasks ongoing in parallel at the moment, mostly preparing stock for Hexworthy in preparation for its first exhibition next month. The first to be finished was a small but important task, making ready-to-run coaches actually ready to run. Lovely though the Peco coaches are, they have a bit of a plasticky look (particularly the roofs) and are too clean even for a preserved railway.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3GcivEbOehabPLki_qzdWrAGJXHkUY6iyyWBZZepkb4tBAsjw7B4IKs5nLLw84K_3juvSZ_wa-ZiVlOFuFgpqrlhHgU5rMdGH3rL1YtcsU2nKDV8KJGBWfMBIgi6Am9p2WNWqorIbr73m-BcQuyOGUVtC1L0-RK5RwQ9nnADIArkoQrvvdZnqa9X7zsR/s800/2024-02-08%2020.24.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="800" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC3GcivEbOehabPLki_qzdWrAGJXHkUY6iyyWBZZepkb4tBAsjw7B4IKs5nLLw84K_3juvSZ_wa-ZiVlOFuFgpqrlhHgU5rMdGH3rL1YtcsU2nKDV8KJGBWfMBIgi6Am9p2WNWqorIbr73m-BcQuyOGUVtC1L0-RK5RwQ9nnADIArkoQrvvdZnqa9X7zsR/w640-h336/2024-02-08%2020.24.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The three Lynton and Barnstaple coaches had a number of little jobs done:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The white plastic roofs were airbrushed with off-white acrylic, as much as anything to reduce the plasticky sheen and to take the edge off the starkness</li><li>They then had a fine mist of black splattered over the top to represent soot, as with the Ashover coaches</li><li>The lamp tops were then picked out in matt black (well, very dark grey), the little covers next to them were left white</li><li>The plastic moulded hand-rail had the edge picked out in black, which from most angles makes it look much more like a handrail than a white ridge</li><li>The steps, lamp brackets, and handrails on the coach ends were also picked out in matt dark grey/black, I also painted the buffer beams black</li><li>The grey/black thinned slightly was also run along the footboards and underframes to soften them and make them matt</li><li>A mid-brown acrylic was then airbrushed lightly over the footboards and underframes, allowing a little to mist onto the lower sides and ends. </li></ul></div><div>The airbrushing was done very lightly, using the end-stop to limit paint flow, aiming for a very subtle weathering from track dirt and loco soot, but otherwise leaving the coaches clean as though regularly washed. I guess it reflects my increasing confidence with the airbrush. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJqVBZiipEY4BgIu7keXv7Wt2OTb2nbigiZ2uVYHW2I43-1t27M0J6KgHv-R1mxt7rozxQ5JWJDdX-ZilXgWWLvjjgxldty1c5G4SBY0vr1SVSi1NJ4uohE_xcs-fQ42elKqvzha_wxnmWTQX_3GBpoq67-6a68zyfXc1Pi3PM8B1ERwagO7F46xtST50/s800/2024-02-05%2020.27.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJqVBZiipEY4BgIu7keXv7Wt2OTb2nbigiZ2uVYHW2I43-1t27M0J6KgHv-R1mxt7rozxQ5JWJDdX-ZilXgWWLvjjgxldty1c5G4SBY0vr1SVSi1NJ4uohE_xcs-fQ42elKqvzha_wxnmWTQX_3GBpoq67-6a68zyfXc1Pi3PM8B1ERwagO7F46xtST50/w640-h360/2024-02-05%2020.27.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I've also been painting passengers, a mix of Faller and the 3D printed Finescale Figures (the legless ones). These used acrylics, some were a bit shiny so I added a coat of Humbrol Matcote - which left them more shiny. Am I doing something wrong? Fortunately I had some Vallejo matt acrylic varnish, a couple of coats of which worked. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqbp1NcodHGN3ctwJuNasXKGlDnlM5emghhUKCMzgNIrEGsmEwIgBpVHHiiyKTb3hmZZGicXM0QS7BqoPlR4rclV6KZ0pzA4SY_P-b5LvVMfnAJWrIJZeoQbBCncTuBsxDYZm9FBsVLUOE5sCoY-889lqiagH03nxioqXJx55lSn6yciCotfbONxgyNzP/s800/2024-02-07%2021.14.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="800" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqbp1NcodHGN3ctwJuNasXKGlDnlM5emghhUKCMzgNIrEGsmEwIgBpVHHiiyKTb3hmZZGicXM0QS7BqoPlR4rclV6KZ0pzA4SY_P-b5LvVMfnAJWrIJZeoQbBCncTuBsxDYZm9FBsVLUOE5sCoY-889lqiagH03nxioqXJx55lSn6yciCotfbONxgyNzP/w640-h464/2024-02-07%2021.14.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Passengers fitted to the L&B coaches, and also the WHR coach built a little while back. A couple of people per compartment works well, so 5-6 per coach is sufficient to give the impression of a partially occupied train. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityGslNnqcppm7QryzmJ2kyPiZqpBAsoIdDHJzMHFEIJhxAreEExlSLxbwnad3T0pr6Xi2SBu133BfGo_qs9prQRuI1rHxGZ08N4ya8fpnmcRAhNPf2ujSMb2Xz3bskohCG1IGr7DZxZZ1bBSEIovopTWn2GmHUC9nqqIAJRnR5hmXT47TPCWcCb5EYwdF/s800/2024-02-08%2020.25.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="800" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityGslNnqcppm7QryzmJ2kyPiZqpBAsoIdDHJzMHFEIJhxAreEExlSLxbwnad3T0pr6Xi2SBu133BfGo_qs9prQRuI1rHxGZ08N4ya8fpnmcRAhNPf2ujSMb2Xz3bskohCG1IGr7DZxZZ1bBSEIovopTWn2GmHUC9nqqIAJRnR5hmXT47TPCWcCb5EYwdF/w640-h302/2024-02-08%2020.25.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The passengers are just visible through the windows, and the subtle weathering to roofs and underframes is effective at removing the plastickyness. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EkpnBvEEylWmnC9k9HFeOz65UmuatyiJ8_qTa0tEDJGc7OsZM-fKsA3pTIyOtdu2bkPKdWlEK4w_8cvNr5DuSkQ7I6LkSUoNDqsLJzJKzTmc01Fu1Qrwzh2bvnX2ndp4lSj_YoCIK41_vYmHYgyD44DQz3d9040S47mX09j1cdh_DTMkocgFAD6kQp9S/s800/2024-02-08%2020.26.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EkpnBvEEylWmnC9k9HFeOz65UmuatyiJ8_qTa0tEDJGc7OsZM-fKsA3pTIyOtdu2bkPKdWlEK4w_8cvNr5DuSkQ7I6LkSUoNDqsLJzJKzTmc01Fu1Qrwzh2bvnX2ndp4lSj_YoCIK41_vYmHYgyD44DQz3d9040S47mX09j1cdh_DTMkocgFAD6kQp9S/w640-h426/2024-02-08%2020.26.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The four-wheelers got the same treatment. I didn't like the white roof on the brake so it was sprayed with grey primer, and the lamp-top painted black along with the steps on the ends. As with the L&B coaches a light airbrushing of soot from above and track dirt from below gives the impression of use, a few minutes work makes a big difference. I've not yet fitted passengers, although the small windows means it probably isn't essential. </div>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-48305417117560751972024-01-10T22:44:00.001+00:002024-01-10T22:44:46.384+00:00Making Tracks III - Milton Keynes<p>Over the Christmas break I visited family, and just down the road at Blakemere Village (a collection of craft shops and other attractions) Pete Waterman's "Making Tracks 3" model of Milton Keynes was on show. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSOm_7cdsMNPDiUYAEUHdF8wEluQNUJ4FpOA-ffhqQ-3CJSjjYQPRwLt82XCnXBVIbsldYZlV7BzlJWFdEp_u_eAQXocE7_jIa5FzOdAQCvndAvVocf9liCrTcjSw44xR-1U7TrTuF7eqL30vHsDo-DB7vvopUn1jRa76XtiY5JKI5yymREIwlPlcvkAk/s800/IMG_3851.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSOm_7cdsMNPDiUYAEUHdF8wEluQNUJ4FpOA-ffhqQ-3CJSjjYQPRwLt82XCnXBVIbsldYZlV7BzlJWFdEp_u_eAQXocE7_jIa5FzOdAQCvndAvVocf9liCrTcjSw44xR-1U7TrTuF7eqL30vHsDo-DB7vvopUn1jRa76XtiY5JKI5yymREIwlPlcvkAk/w640-h440/IMG_3851.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The scale of the model is, of course, impressive. This is not a small station, with 6 platforms, and set against a backdrop of modern office blocks. I've only passed through Milton Keynes station on a train so can't say how accurate the model is. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoqKLsgJ9y0YUmm-AQ4BM7LNXhBKA4n3IDOKLAKlso7O-VzNwS0LVDQctniizZW6bqC27HdDUyqYuUOxJAek61kkup0QO0wmOaOy-D0ZYBb3uFbZmNuZvosV2FuWnCce8cy9TvPz2Ls0GsgWmSD1sVShyphenhyphenXoqEg1NfCR5g4EbKONi0Gd9NMBC1WyvjKHfz/s800/2023-12-27%2015.46.01.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="800" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoqKLsgJ9y0YUmm-AQ4BM7LNXhBKA4n3IDOKLAKlso7O-VzNwS0LVDQctniizZW6bqC27HdDUyqYuUOxJAek61kkup0QO0wmOaOy-D0ZYBb3uFbZmNuZvosV2FuWnCce8cy9TvPz2Ls0GsgWmSD1sVShyphenhyphenXoqEg1NfCR5g4EbKONi0Gd9NMBC1WyvjKHfz/w640-h424/2023-12-27%2015.46.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Full length West-coast mainline trains are dwarfed by the layout. The multiple tracks and DCC operation allow a prototypically intensive service, so you don't wait long to see a train. Around the back long loops held an array of trains, shuffling up while awaiting their turn to depart. Visitors were being encouraged to have a go at driving trains using a tablet. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgNeX5qX0VA90z3TkEfEkLzikg-qnBE-Tka3Eg1L4g_FA0Icul85LKKnevyLZwpq4pSurVW1RJF0fWWC2JP3dXTByDwCxA72IRT8GSx4l4yDbKvWtHEYlY4mg7ZcAZHZv9zb6a2595qRpF0Fo7qXyNm6J0QyX8FPK0w2FxhUJo07pozfRgHow4PciAAjH/s800/IMG_3850.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="800" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgNeX5qX0VA90z3TkEfEkLzikg-qnBE-Tka3Eg1L4g_FA0Icul85LKKnevyLZwpq4pSurVW1RJF0fWWC2JP3dXTByDwCxA72IRT8GSx4l4yDbKvWtHEYlY4mg7ZcAZHZv9zb6a2595qRpF0Fo7qXyNm6J0QyX8FPK0w2FxhUJo07pozfRgHow4PciAAjH/w640-h444/IMG_3850.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Much of the layout is just track with a little scenery, this is a layout to watch the trains go by. There were a variety of trains providing interest and colour, including some unusual trains and a few steam trains, as well as those more typical of the West coast mainline. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGdH-_oAL9-kaAaPFcKFMk5gO9VAbPhIR82ssGXimL_FSocvR01b8_F5smCE6okuETiddZvtrOc6j6lW87YpUvfZq8Jrma-eKCdNnViCak7wf33TFpaTB6pRLbiAlfW9FRVH4iTVThkqPKpuoTFi3NfDFbNac_44hC8wXSVZcF4tXJ7v3ZaK5sbUBWoW6/s800/IMG_3872.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGdH-_oAL9-kaAaPFcKFMk5gO9VAbPhIR82ssGXimL_FSocvR01b8_F5smCE6okuETiddZvtrOc6j6lW87YpUvfZq8Jrma-eKCdNnViCak7wf33TFpaTB6pRLbiAlfW9FRVH4iTVThkqPKpuoTFi3NfDFbNac_44hC8wXSVZcF4tXJ7v3ZaK5sbUBWoW6/w640-h440/IMG_3872.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Despite the size of the layout and limited scenic development beyond the tracks with operation being the centrepiece, a lot of work has gone into the detailing. Look at the complexity of the catenary, the forest of (working) signals, the finesse of the fencing, streetlamps...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNFujF9L8N_SQc0L76Z7lW3TXwfh4M_o00iNzJsaOksOaNzejsMWOddZ9LQfTPHxeXsF_5EP7NNvvOObBKSFbOaD13mEcV3dP3h8ygo4goexC2UTgmn0nFAD_okiTb29Gk1MnuKNz_oI7UYsFDUsPWXVFSYZlclP7rLcRdTtQ-ZCO1rEbuqm3wTi961F8/s800/IMG_3879.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="544" data-original-width="800" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNFujF9L8N_SQc0L76Z7lW3TXwfh4M_o00iNzJsaOksOaNzejsMWOddZ9LQfTPHxeXsF_5EP7NNvvOObBKSFbOaD13mEcV3dP3h8ygo4goexC2UTgmn0nFAD_okiTb29Gk1MnuKNz_oI7UYsFDUsPWXVFSYZlclP7rLcRdTtQ-ZCO1rEbuqm3wTi961F8/w640-h436/IMG_3879.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The track itself is nicely painted and ballasted (although real ballast tends to be dirtier I think!), with the AWS ramps and other trackside paraphernalia (no I don't know what they all do) modelled. Oh, and a snowman, </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4qsfBVZFZv2CLiwLJ11w8TfDfSGEzLN983pdhdUwwnav7E3IrUcn9JyCciYoTzFBjv8DtcT5ywDEHRZESfIROn383GCOGvkxmcGAOXSUtS6XOrd4KZlGrDbcEpQLdnGtMif6mQbV7JccKwWEyiuiyWLETYtidyiAuDT_ytew1HizxDIar6v-RChbx42E/s800/IMG_3871.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="800" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4qsfBVZFZv2CLiwLJ11w8TfDfSGEzLN983pdhdUwwnav7E3IrUcn9JyCciYoTzFBjv8DtcT5ywDEHRZESfIROn383GCOGvkxmcGAOXSUtS6XOrd4KZlGrDbcEpQLdnGtMif6mQbV7JccKwWEyiuiyWLETYtidyiAuDT_ytew1HizxDIar6v-RChbx42E/w640-h446/IMG_3871.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The snowman wasn't the only festive decoration, this nativity scene enhanced an office car park. Santa's sleigh was also spotted in another car park (but no reindeer). </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzGlr68p_T7-XuUqE58SgwsaU88RVWlR2zwtNGT2qphBxFpm937W3kjYUIOMzOGFGy29Lk00z-aOj_1PluyCTqe4AdWdxUGlLCAngq7tnNbxji75V3hi_npelOPK8fGBzIofVPXvDZ-d5c0n5plcBeNAFMlZ3waxh2KncUSww-0wRYANzc3tfQ1RXuzZ9/s800/IMG_3875.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="800" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzGlr68p_T7-XuUqE58SgwsaU88RVWlR2zwtNGT2qphBxFpm937W3kjYUIOMzOGFGy29Lk00z-aOj_1PluyCTqe4AdWdxUGlLCAngq7tnNbxji75V3hi_npelOPK8fGBzIofVPXvDZ-d5c0n5plcBeNAFMlZ3waxh2KncUSww-0wRYANzc3tfQ1RXuzZ9/w640-h428/IMG_3875.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>An enjoyable visit to an impressive model exhibited in quite an intimate setting. Rather than the vast space of Chester cathedral that it was built for, it occupied a barn-type structure, I understand the model had been shortened to fit, though I couldn't tell where. While visitors were trickling through, it was not at all crowded so it was easy to wander around and view the layout from all angles. Pete was even chatting to visitors. Hopefully, as well as attracting enthusiasts it will have been seen by many casual visitors, including families, and maybe some of those will take an interest in railway modelling. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-32691305375536274362024-01-04T20:41:00.000+00:002024-01-04T20:41:47.851+00:00Ashover coaches Part 6 - completion<p>In the last update the Ashover coaches had been painted. I applied a brown enamel wash sparingly to the bogies, underframes and steps, and in places allowed this to wick up into the match-boarding grooves, mainly on the ends. The result is subtle and barely noticeable, but does soften the black and give a clean but used look. Then, a spray of matt varnish was applied. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWLkTA6TQbB3Hcyx_tYHDPZTWff9CED94YNxUfH7YS5lBZ8zjgVRzpnBeQmJIRwLrpR0bz7qEohoRYoXfKxM7echlemG6CDa9fJHTsrLrTCebEpHetF6-MvxkYXpF1ap3QiTqrMVQsV_67W4ZkCV4cJPzjkdtAEhR-VT_9z1ap7GlLDgRR0gADUKTrObX/s1000/2023-12-16%2010.36.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="1000" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWLkTA6TQbB3Hcyx_tYHDPZTWff9CED94YNxUfH7YS5lBZ8zjgVRzpnBeQmJIRwLrpR0bz7qEohoRYoXfKxM7echlemG6CDa9fJHTsrLrTCebEpHetF6-MvxkYXpF1ap3QiTqrMVQsV_67W4ZkCV4cJPzjkdtAEhR-VT_9z1ap7GlLDgRR0gADUKTrObX/w640-h458/2023-12-16%2010.36.06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>In parallel I painted a selection of Faller seated passengers using artists acrylics, mixed on the palette on the go, I don't find these paints as nice to use as enamels and the result is rather crude, but it was a fast method that gave acceptable results considering they will be visible only through the windows of the coach. I used deliberately varied colours to ensure they <i>could </i>be seen though!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdnDQdjgd9NxPGK8cCfws-V1Zsqx8AFcMJjp_zCfolynK5y7-HD9Q96lPnK0Jr7DVOR0GCVDi0CVyTBo6-Dcbi3K1fU8DIXoFfRsF1MYpdza3bf0FQseVCkwAd-2gMWWztfttRGhL1qWQYTg8GqRJ8jcx4aMGaP0iYuPub-OvBu-Z6CiayFdAxiHcaolLs/s1000/2023-12-11%2021.46.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="513" data-original-width="1000" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdnDQdjgd9NxPGK8cCfws-V1Zsqx8AFcMJjp_zCfolynK5y7-HD9Q96lPnK0Jr7DVOR0GCVDi0CVyTBo6-Dcbi3K1fU8DIXoFfRsF1MYpdza3bf0FQseVCkwAd-2gMWWztfttRGhL1qWQYTg8GqRJ8jcx4aMGaP0iYuPub-OvBu-Z6CiayFdAxiHcaolLs/w640-h328/2023-12-11%2021.46.07.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The next step was glazing the coaches, a slightly tricky and involved job, complicated by the open windows! I used 0.5mm clear styrene which was protected with a peel-off layer both sides, I removed this after cutting to size and just before fitting to avoid scratches and fingerprints, then stuck in place with Humbrol Clearfix which doesn't fog the glazing, dries clear, and excess can be removed easily with a cocktail stick as it dries. The glazing is fitted behind the sides so not flush, which is noticeable at the open windows but only on close inspection. The ends with open doors used thinner clear plastic. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then the passengers could be installed, sitting on blobs of contact adhesive. A couple of ladies had diverted to the Hexworthy station café but there were enough for 5-6 people per coach, sufficient to suggest occupancy. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu51oalBgq_9QcnKmIvnYAVsF_sMmFeyYJOCKodzktp9uLDMOVRklylZzMpgJf1MsB52lAP5mZRGTVeS95gF3bG4KljrbHj8iriadnYN8m73anXtwahgNZnCeg3ANkFW5LGt3E8g-kaC8RGFpy6ofQ49zeTo9Dd8AeK-3RkgimmJDGosFzxlwywekYvQdG/s1000/2024-01-01%2016.53.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="766" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu51oalBgq_9QcnKmIvnYAVsF_sMmFeyYJOCKodzktp9uLDMOVRklylZzMpgJf1MsB52lAP5mZRGTVeS95gF3bG4KljrbHj8iriadnYN8m73anXtwahgNZnCeg3ANkFW5LGt3E8g-kaC8RGFpy6ofQ49zeTo9Dd8AeK-3RkgimmJDGosFzxlwywekYvQdG/w490-h640/2024-01-01%2016.53.15.jpg" width="490" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The bogies had their couplings fitted. Some had been prepared for Microtrains couplings already, so these were attached with a cut-down screw. The rest have Greenwich couplings fitted, they're not my normal coupling and I found them fiddly to make up, though it got easier with practice. They needed a couple of bends in the shank to bring them from under the bogie to the correct height. To ensure they are securely fixed I drilled a hole through the bogie and inserted an L-shape piece of 0.5mm wire inverted so it protrudes below the bogie, and slotted one of the holes in the coupling shank (opened out slightly) over the wire as I superglued it to the bogie. The wire "peg" should take the lateral shear force.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06XCLVjh8uk_fEoIwOHJr-c-irns5JFNdZMiH2vGkyPFMAu7h-e8Ojg_ARX0desU3n_0mlzf7PaYy50CIJ2dG_I_FnwvkN1kquhwWhHIUsjh0mZ-Qz_r8csZO1MgQyhgXDug4n6R-mYUJtPt-WZjbuULSaGyr53lKBAdnWUk0MwpvEIu42YQ2O0sCzqlZ/s1000/2024-01-03%2020.22.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="1000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06XCLVjh8uk_fEoIwOHJr-c-irns5JFNdZMiH2vGkyPFMAu7h-e8Ojg_ARX0desU3n_0mlzf7PaYy50CIJ2dG_I_FnwvkN1kquhwWhHIUsjh0mZ-Qz_r8csZO1MgQyhgXDug4n6R-mYUJtPt-WZjbuULSaGyr53lKBAdnWUk0MwpvEIu42YQ2O0sCzqlZ/w640-h240/2024-01-03%2020.22.18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>You may be wondering why the couplings are different at each end of the coach! I want to run them with my existing kit-built locos fitted with Microtrains couplings, or the ready-to-run locos now available which have standard 009 couplings and are difficult or impossible to fit Microtrains couplings to. By having a pairs of coaches with different couplings at each end, either coupling type can face outward from the set. The fifth coach has Greenwich couplings to make a rake of three either coupled onto or between the pairs. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5oR3Y10e_zqK7QQXThDvmc-oUqx1j7PffWsMnkZBDvEvk0TX-q0mcDNhur4KGHUxEWI3ZIDJwhXkp_KizBp1TUBlpjvl9k2WZhgFioeUfCMwskWd23ujF5WQj5hJAf3OIVXQv75pUUAmhD83kE7OCaajINzkqUiS4Y1YwpBt14UYwn0fuCVRyvZyUxYI/s1000/2024-01-01%2019.59.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="1000" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5oR3Y10e_zqK7QQXThDvmc-oUqx1j7PffWsMnkZBDvEvk0TX-q0mcDNhur4KGHUxEWI3ZIDJwhXkp_KizBp1TUBlpjvl9k2WZhgFioeUfCMwskWd23ujF5WQj5hJAf3OIVXQv75pUUAmhD83kE7OCaajINzkqUiS4Y1YwpBt14UYwn0fuCVRyvZyUxYI/w640-h346/2024-01-01%2019.59.06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, the roofs were fixed with matt Modge Podge, this is sticky enough to hold them and yet easily removed without damage if needed, while being easy to clean up and leaving no trace. And so the five coaches are complete and ready for service on Hexworthy. Three fit the platform with space to spare (four don't, but there may be space for a 4-wheeler), while two fill the bay. The livery looks great, and they fit well with a variety of locos. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Mtb_SKgk7b-U8K0eyYwqYz8O0ayQWn4bxM4rF85mSk30Cw-s9SH1Dgk0DujXQ7YN_uwhWeCSqsoeqNTKdSckji1KEF-swsSVlbqkbbMEwgxU47XBG74cqzXy3PIH4B1gdrdZqIkBY2npWlv6ygE0ZsSBXLFBq4f6AW5-0Tf14s8oVc59kX_r95JR0KNe/s1000/2024-01-01%2020.01.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="1000" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Mtb_SKgk7b-U8K0eyYwqYz8O0ayQWn4bxM4rF85mSk30Cw-s9SH1Dgk0DujXQ7YN_uwhWeCSqsoeqNTKdSckji1KEF-swsSVlbqkbbMEwgxU47XBG74cqzXy3PIH4B1gdrdZqIkBY2npWlv6ygE0ZsSBXLFBq4f6AW5-0Tf14s8oVc59kX_r95JR0KNe/w640-h270/2024-01-01%2020.01.00.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>I didn't quite manage to finish them ahead of the Bachmann models release, and missed my own hoped for deadline of the end of the year by one day. But that doesn't matter. I know my models are unique, not just in livery but the details such as handrails (which appear moulded on the Bachmann model) and open windows, and of course the brake conversion (well, that's not totally unique as my friend Tim did his first!). Most importantly, I'm pleased with the way they have come out and I expect they will provide useful service on Hexworthy. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-52528439366991117372023-12-26T23:11:00.000+00:002023-12-26T23:11:10.455+00:00New coaches and people<p> Christmas has brought a couple of new coaches...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcuJPLR8NhaunpQv5GOWe-KY9NKLuGEjpk2K3qRjf4h4z7EI_JDlvq6iHQe6A3Z_TuuVp2Eymu0J9dSh2p1VfuEKgHeEsx3QKjT-oA5E0nrQwyhxeeUTMnFZHH4eWk1qo0Y2zxkL5HsEUMvFlgGgDHxQP_BgDRbsQQC_aRy8OXQspc9WFMJ9CgMOhHMlFA/s800/2023-12-25%2022.49.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="800" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcuJPLR8NhaunpQv5GOWe-KY9NKLuGEjpk2K3qRjf4h4z7EI_JDlvq6iHQe6A3Z_TuuVp2Eymu0J9dSh2p1VfuEKgHeEsx3QKjT-oA5E0nrQwyhxeeUTMnFZHH4eWk1qo0Y2zxkL5HsEUMvFlgGgDHxQP_BgDRbsQQC_aRy8OXQspc9WFMJ9CgMOhHMlFA/w640-h422/2023-12-25%2022.49.38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>A Festiniog Railway "bug box" and a freelance Glyn Valley style brake van. There were a few other model railway related presents with some scenic items and some 3D printed figures...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQGtJhqvLqXk0uJDIKpuZfi9eFKbNWruqNBycCrISJVX9U3sqmfBX4X3kXRhMj61VB_OUAXlHjHdnvWx8l3fG_D4dsKCSrWHmjHCipF0YnfoVLAAuDITxU4jnmbfz_qhUq3kBX2JzMsk-684JL-gbFjCHIFrWhcEiZw1GVG8YWgqbRZ7Y3-_M2BmysAvO/s800/2023-12-25%2022.55.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="800" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQGtJhqvLqXk0uJDIKpuZfi9eFKbNWruqNBycCrISJVX9U3sqmfBX4X3kXRhMj61VB_OUAXlHjHdnvWx8l3fG_D4dsKCSrWHmjHCipF0YnfoVLAAuDITxU4jnmbfz_qhUq3kBX2JzMsk-684JL-gbFjCHIFrWhcEiZw1GVG8YWgqbRZ7Y3-_M2BmysAvO/w640-h358/2023-12-25%2022.55.24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>These are from Finescale Figures (actually ordered in a sale some time ago), the selection includes some seated figures destined for coaches, a variety of animals, and some modern dress figures. These are resin printed and although the detail is not as sharp as Model-U, they are realistic in proportion and pose and I'm sure will benefit Hexworthy. </p><p>I trust Santa brought you nice goodies too!</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-44204033429457078412023-12-24T12:26:00.002+00:002023-12-24T12:26:49.618+00:00Life for Hexworthy<p>The work seen in this post has happened over several months. I was actually painting figures back in the summer, it's a task that takes time and was spread out over a few weeks of occasional evenings, while other details have been prepared alongside painting the coaches recently. It's only in the last few days I've added the details to the layout. Usually I keep figures to a minimum on my layouts to suggest life, but as Hexworthy is a preserved railway station and I will be running lots of passenger trains, it will need to look like a reasonably popular tourist destination. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9L99VoIl_aRVkL7p1BhcEfNOFDdHhHIc7VabqaXeaMLhiLQugHUcRnreu5Agz4Ch_kzqLszwsrYKpI51694i72uqPXrUBeOwJgqQQhN_Hqg2_ih5z4Xsu4tfcAO5eCdJVfKMntL9MGVW6uRhjHgQfG_ATdF386uS2RPQOGCkbu9Omn73FgRtkgHFvux9/s800/2023-09-01%2010.35.56.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9L99VoIl_aRVkL7p1BhcEfNOFDdHhHIc7VabqaXeaMLhiLQugHUcRnreu5Agz4Ch_kzqLszwsrYKpI51694i72uqPXrUBeOwJgqQQhN_Hqg2_ih5z4Xsu4tfcAO5eCdJVfKMntL9MGVW6uRhjHgQfG_ATdF386uS2RPQOGCkbu9Omn73FgRtkgHFvux9/w640-h400/2023-09-01%2010.35.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Figures come from a variety of suppliers. I was particularly looking for children for the playground, in modern dress rather than looking like they stepped out of a "Just William" story. At the top we have a Faller set in playing poses, HO scale of course but children come in all sizes. Next we have some from Langley (which look like TT scale adults) and Pete Goss (rather chubbier). Then there are teenagers and adults from Monty's Models. The bottom two rows are loco crews from Faller, Dapol, and ModelU, some have already been assigned locos and some await fitting. The animals and fire buckets are from Dart Castings. Whitemetal figures later had their legs drilled and a length of wire superglued in to help secure them in place on the layout. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4GklxJXrqSCIIoJyY45nNlIj0OM4vTyM2GGn4Pc9jwb24V20P7mnzIz8fUZYNG7ue4n4u6iLEJYDuUlF2IVHKwaC7mGHdhSEc58h2UL3DENv7NnNahoX8oSkRIGOPYXmqqBVyR17QXQJF8Y2EYKGdn6pZ5cF59YPexqw_abhgY3oqytToWz_hDStoCQY/s800/2023-09-25%2021.09.21.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="800" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4GklxJXrqSCIIoJyY45nNlIj0OM4vTyM2GGn4Pc9jwb24V20P7mnzIz8fUZYNG7ue4n4u6iLEJYDuUlF2IVHKwaC7mGHdhSEc58h2UL3DENv7NnNahoX8oSkRIGOPYXmqqBVyR17QXQJF8Y2EYKGdn6pZ5cF59YPexqw_abhgY3oqytToWz_hDStoCQY/w640-h388/2023-09-25%2021.09.21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>These benches and picnic tables are a Metcalf Models laser-cut kit, and look just right for a modern era preserved railway. Although cut from a brown cardstock that is a reasonable representation of natural wood, they received several coats of grey and brown washes to give a more weathered finish. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMA7QMqQWUJ9oD6wfbUi1eIQYzjtfP8lp7CT8d5NRPWu7MD6jm3r_Fwg9Yjvf594_OcPvP5ToeUqXt8Sswvtkqm3snu-TCPZgqJ-tRxHL4HptcyI1hn-6AMGvu4sTwHdOJstEExCtRTrFo7zrf7t_iIwqghrqyVcDnIRZ9DLh6rE9JLp0Py7b0WKQYwFS/s800/2023-12-23%2023.50.17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="800" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMA7QMqQWUJ9oD6wfbUi1eIQYzjtfP8lp7CT8d5NRPWu7MD6jm3r_Fwg9Yjvf594_OcPvP5ToeUqXt8Sswvtkqm3snu-TCPZgqJ-tRxHL4HptcyI1hn-6AMGvu4sTwHdOJstEExCtRTrFo7zrf7t_iIwqghrqyVcDnIRZ9DLh6rE9JLp0Py7b0WKQYwFS/w640-h434/2023-12-23%2023.50.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I also got some 3D printed station signs from Model Railway Scenes, rather easier than sticking separate letters on although painting the letters was tricky. The signs and posts are nicely printed with no visible lines, my only suggestion is that the length could do with shortening for shorter names. The pack has 4 signs with posts, but I only really have room for one standing on the platform and one on the wall of the goods shed. The benches have been added to the platform, and the picnic tables situated outside the goods shed café. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhaTk8rwOETPyEDq4gBOAMr-VuuIyJk3TI2k-PFQqtfEu43Bqmf1w3CQ0fXZecMkTLTlLQePVWhcf27psnMzFMxSsNdpp2eX4qIpoUqU5J_mMZ7-C3zHbPT6xrwO8ktKLk9JjgZwLIIK9s5VQwhz3pr20fD4CVz09QHOM8p_qv2XzVg4ObvunRaKC09Nb/s800/2023-12-23%2023.49.16.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="800" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhaTk8rwOETPyEDq4gBOAMr-VuuIyJk3TI2k-PFQqtfEu43Bqmf1w3CQ0fXZecMkTLTlLQePVWhcf27psnMzFMxSsNdpp2eX4qIpoUqU5J_mMZ7-C3zHbPT6xrwO8ktKLk9JjgZwLIIK9s5VQwhz3pr20fD4CVz09QHOM8p_qv2XzVg4ObvunRaKC09Nb/w640-h452/2023-12-23%2023.49.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>A close-up of the café entrance shows the teenagers hanging around outside, while inside customers can be seen at the tables. Actually there is one table and a few chairs, more fine 3D prints by Model Railway Scenes, plus a couple of Faller seated people. The people were destined for coach passengers but these two appear to be holding drinks, so were allocated to the café. Although there is just one table, two customers and four chairs, it's enough to give an impression of a café interior since even with the light on, it's not possible to see further in. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMM2dLxNCXpGuFbpJaewDLiZ0q4dNLTck2DHyKuA8KKTf_q398il3ku6B2ALQLLBqNSTkrQmO1DY9QqXqd8e86DZLfRlPwT-Z299rhm6KKv6SCTdvl4eLo4PYGUjahEjjrocn4kniK8M_gytJbhJN4jOL78GoN3lz60AXky2Ez7tFqf09MY9xKjmAxzWMw/s800/2023-12-23%2023.51.15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="800" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMM2dLxNCXpGuFbpJaewDLiZ0q4dNLTck2DHyKuA8KKTf_q398il3ku6B2ALQLLBqNSTkrQmO1DY9QqXqd8e86DZLfRlPwT-Z299rhm6KKv6SCTdvl4eLo4PYGUjahEjjrocn4kniK8M_gytJbhJN4jOL78GoN3lz60AXky2Ez7tFqf09MY9xKjmAxzWMw/w640-h452/2023-12-23%2023.51.15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>At the other end of the station the fire buckets have found a home outside the gents, while a father and son wait on the platform. The lone gent on the left is either trying to get a signal on his mobile or taking a selfie. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKWdDIeOWDC3z6_K0JP4uIy0yTkuRUfuFaYuCO8sKXVi16octWUBbdVT3m-SqzsxL9oCnysxu4xyUWiO44pcOMqr6toDQ7rr9BO8My9BxLCzVTT8AcRCKhrIwlTKY7DBoyOVMumh9YDPkJuk6zoCFZnEyPNLEuF1GuxNQAmWPAfJBuqohmpexnlr82ka8/s800/2023-12-23%2023.49.49.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="800" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKWdDIeOWDC3z6_K0JP4uIy0yTkuRUfuFaYuCO8sKXVi16octWUBbdVT3m-SqzsxL9oCnysxu4xyUWiO44pcOMqr6toDQ7rr9BO8My9BxLCzVTT8AcRCKhrIwlTKY7DBoyOVMumh9YDPkJuk6zoCFZnEyPNLEuF1GuxNQAmWPAfJBuqohmpexnlr82ka8/w640-h380/2023-12-23%2023.49.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The playground has had the most figures added to really bring it to life, in fact the playground is busier than the station, which might need a few more potential passengers. The Faller kids are ideal for the swing, see-saw, roundabout and climbing frame, with the whitemetal figures dotted around. In the far corner grandparents wait on the bench while in the gateway a mum is distracted on her phone. Meanwhile, another mum and boy are buying ice creams. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiug6oJWNnGqEttzGrGoxKKQJWE_U5pl-Z5SPH78fZmK5tYs7sS-_9beBXJV0UHe-1nOOT57M49K5wyGqbnpG9lk8KVgPpo35X9prMcdZGimLIBPKQ6wO6B5DQ8ZhUT-v1BMm-ft-4Mk6RvlEfBWIgimU5Xnmi-isjq7FRXgkK4rfFkqxn8ROScJ4ML9Voi/s800/2023-12-23%2023.52.01.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="800" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiug6oJWNnGqEttzGrGoxKKQJWE_U5pl-Z5SPH78fZmK5tYs7sS-_9beBXJV0UHe-1nOOT57M49K5wyGqbnpG9lk8KVgPpo35X9prMcdZGimLIBPKQ6wO6B5DQ8ZhUT-v1BMm-ft-4Mk6RvlEfBWIgimU5Xnmi-isjq7FRXgkK4rfFkqxn8ROScJ4ML9Voi/w640-h404/2023-12-23%2023.52.01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The animals have also been added. Here a couple of rabbits are in danger from a fox. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-YdqxP8xd7_7X-6pMVYLJ4JVfR5LYZDylqMOyCSrUTTNThJ2PJhR1B_FNI3gqEcK-tIvKHTavmDnmNNLb2FLeXK4w-T7n0AfLplv_iU8mdNi2wDMJ-SOpWSS0ErcMso5U4QfDc-zUP9DNHE-xbgGbQXGdffze2voZUDyMkEe76vEVLUaPFybrtf0QRTq/s800/2023-12-23%2023.52.38.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="800" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-YdqxP8xd7_7X-6pMVYLJ4JVfR5LYZDylqMOyCSrUTTNThJ2PJhR1B_FNI3gqEcK-tIvKHTavmDnmNNLb2FLeXK4w-T7n0AfLplv_iU8mdNi2wDMJ-SOpWSS0ErcMso5U4QfDc-zUP9DNHE-xbgGbQXGdffze2voZUDyMkEe76vEVLUaPFybrtf0QRTq/w640-h422/2023-12-23%2023.52.38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another of the Model Railway Scenery chairs is see outside the old caravan. Look carefully and you can see a squirrel near the caravan, a hedgehog near the tracks on the left and a rabbit lower right. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDJHmeT8-ceAla1EHgglBO1CwAwecp-UiogehguiZWwarnE1krWUaaekpKQIXEckysGFOXhUkWQttu8Fq_Ne9oMGpfYe1nUUsSxyJnE2pwk4x0yUz4jAn1S5LOeshk1pW-kw8-LGR6SQ139XLEqGqbcgBk98iV-jvhNqIvTCIktGUnuRpf6guMx-LLIvc/s800/2023-12-23%2023.52.17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="800" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDJHmeT8-ceAla1EHgglBO1CwAwecp-UiogehguiZWwarnE1krWUaaekpKQIXEckysGFOXhUkWQttu8Fq_Ne9oMGpfYe1nUUsSxyJnE2pwk4x0yUz4jAn1S5LOeshk1pW-kw8-LGR6SQ139XLEqGqbcgBk98iV-jvhNqIvTCIktGUnuRpf6guMx-LLIvc/w640-h416/2023-12-23%2023.52.17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Being Dartmoor there had to be sheep too, one of which seems to have got itself the wrong side of the tracks. A hare can be seen in the field too. There's also two squirrels in this shot (one of them an unlikely red squirrel), plus the rabbit seen in the last shot. In total there are 4 sheep, 3 rabbits, 3 squirrels, 2 foxes, 2 hedgehogs, and 2 stoats on the layout. That should keep the kids busy.</p><p>Wishing all readers a happy Christmas!</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-9217455782106947552023-11-30T23:44:00.001+00:002023-11-30T23:54:18.865+00:00Ashover coaches Part 5 - Painting<p> Having decided on the colour - the Tamyia deep green with white window surround - it was time to start painting the coaches. I'd primed them in white, but the areas to be white were painted an off-white (white with a few drops of beige mixed in) so as to be not too stark. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-T-yU8Do7g_OAtQ99lWa6KONt59TR4eKW3KnFmFDpRJECkclfn4rzSziRRLJIZ3TrXCDDJPUAJ2Wttra_VAhUR3Eg5ttvDCF0Mx4_N31hghKhIsU24eySVY8l_vIHXyb2kV2Thf0M8Xvn_-NVE3SrJ9wSaVXdvqugQKo2nYfSasoXC1tO8FFuH5mSf51/s800/2023-11-14%2023.08.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="800" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-T-yU8Do7g_OAtQ99lWa6KONt59TR4eKW3KnFmFDpRJECkclfn4rzSziRRLJIZ3TrXCDDJPUAJ2Wttra_VAhUR3Eg5ttvDCF0Mx4_N31hghKhIsU24eySVY8l_vIHXyb2kV2Thf0M8Xvn_-NVE3SrJ9wSaVXdvqugQKo2nYfSasoXC1tO8FFuH5mSf51/w640-h356/2023-11-14%2023.08.05.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The upper part of the body around the windows was masked. There's a handy recess between the waist beading and the top board, 9mm tall. The tape I had was 10mm wide.. so I cut to length and trimmed 1mm off the edge while stuck to glass, then transferred the tape to the coach body. I have the glass from a broken picture frame taped to it's backing board with graph paper in between, handy for assembling things square and flat but also for cutting tape.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLp8f48OE7n9m1oLrrbMONnnb1Z0yQHe-5sQtefxJVEoLRxYSqABRg9IOLrfnEWqjFfSqt1gdTPsTZuTxeWpDCuaM9UWbaqKzYrJLBmvRrwImPA2XjebEb_cMoehFwm4mYfuPfRGKlwrdFzrbn4Sw8mCrw__cAiqNB5ENkC70ZnuuSWehFwaVTXOeqsvE9/s800/2023-11-18%2011.51.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="800" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLp8f48OE7n9m1oLrrbMONnnb1Z0yQHe-5sQtefxJVEoLRxYSqABRg9IOLrfnEWqjFfSqt1gdTPsTZuTxeWpDCuaM9UWbaqKzYrJLBmvRrwImPA2XjebEb_cMoehFwm4mYfuPfRGKlwrdFzrbn4Sw8mCrw__cAiqNB5ENkC70ZnuuSWehFwaVTXOeqsvE9/w640-h408/2023-11-18%2011.51.41.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The green acrylic paint was airbrushed. I'm still learning here, and find the frequent cleaning of the airbrush tedious, but I think getting getter. Mind you, I'm still getting used to acrylic paint too. I added some Tamyia acrylic thinners to the Tamyia acrylic paint and it seemed to start coagulating, and the airbrush clogged. Using water to thin the paint worked better, how is that? Anyway, it was worth persisting for the good finish from airbrushing. (The clothes peg helped to hold the coach while painting).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikspaS6t_k5XAEHPjDZ0AWsTaDhpQt93uLputzOST6QxWBKPoPe3LzBGG6tUfdelp17VNJmOgZm91c9Icmkiqy1l0xCBx-qDUleKbFokdubiddeN2OH3cnbQFg2qoSXREydiCebRUMcjvi0HHaM6KjuRo-OAml0AA4LdWRrtgrUm-SGUHpgF9fjOyLusEg/s800/2023-11-19%2013.15.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="786" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikspaS6t_k5XAEHPjDZ0AWsTaDhpQt93uLputzOST6QxWBKPoPe3LzBGG6tUfdelp17VNJmOgZm91c9Icmkiqy1l0xCBx-qDUleKbFokdubiddeN2OH3cnbQFg2qoSXREydiCebRUMcjvi0HHaM6KjuRo-OAml0AA4LdWRrtgrUm-SGUHpgF9fjOyLusEg/w628-h640/2023-11-19%2013.15.02.jpg" width="628" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>With the masking removed I was very pleased with how it had worked. There were a few places paint had leached under the tape as seen on the lower coach, which needed touching up, but mostly the join was clean and tidy. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyryJe8QddihyYj6hHod3jUTgZeh160a6oNiCxrvowpknjC_3NggkBzgqmrb8pfnIrOcFq6M5m-5LfWYtAeq7C7w08kX-DIhVZVZ_9HZwDchHIv8D2SNM0QY4Nhx2tsi4by2KW7EmKFAjp4h-m74PTuo9H3qZQvUo_J20uEYKSl_pLgr1aeJqVNj7ce8s9/s800/2023-11-19%2016.37.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="800" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyryJe8QddihyYj6hHod3jUTgZeh160a6oNiCxrvowpknjC_3NggkBzgqmrb8pfnIrOcFq6M5m-5LfWYtAeq7C7w08kX-DIhVZVZ_9HZwDchHIv8D2SNM0QY4Nhx2tsi4by2KW7EmKFAjp4h-m74PTuo9H3qZQvUo_J20uEYKSl_pLgr1aeJqVNj7ce8s9/w640-h392/2023-11-19%2016.37.34.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>While I had the airbrush out I weathered the roofs (which were in grey primer) with a dark grey acrylic mix. This is varies a little in density and hopefully represents smoke deposits. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSzkQVB4QmLazVhvsYa7mCAOYZ5cNvVfp6AYsgtHURg1LN-t3fcdlG3C_7E41SrqqfZw54vQvS-nqEpQ6ojaAQRrlMLIIZuBOVS-yl0kkGlVQ6qNgXLQDX6bcE1CVxxPF8bFVP268Wq58Fs5H9wE2vVc9bBR6nMji0ZZrTLN3HfWO6MiBR1buooebeHfh/s800/2023-11-29%2021.10.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="337" data-original-width="800" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSzkQVB4QmLazVhvsYa7mCAOYZ5cNvVfp6AYsgtHURg1LN-t3fcdlG3C_7E41SrqqfZw54vQvS-nqEpQ6ojaAQRrlMLIIZuBOVS-yl0kkGlVQ6qNgXLQDX6bcE1CVxxPF8bFVP268Wq58Fs5H9wE2vVc9bBR6nMji0ZZrTLN3HfWO6MiBR1buooebeHfh/w640-h270/2023-11-29%2021.10.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The frames, steps, and handrails were painted with black acrylic, as were the lamptops. I considered masking but the matchboard sides and handrails would have made that difficult, and probably ineffective. Hand painting was tricky and even so some black paint wicked up into the matchboarding requiring touching up. I realised I should have painted the lamptops before fitting! The window drop-frames were painted very carefully with light brown enamel paint - I still prefer the way enamel paint flows - and the tiny door handles dry brushed with enamel brass colour. The insides were roughly painted with brown bench seats and cream/white walls, although I left the end vestibules in green. Not seen here, but the bogies were painted with a black-grey enamel. </p><p>I'm very happy with the way the painting has gone, but there's a little way to go yet. I'd like to matt varnish them, but the weather isn't great for spraying at the moment. I'm wondering about subtle weathering - not to take away from the clean look expected of a preserved railway, but to add dust to the underframes. Then there will be glazing to cut and fit, including around all those open windows!</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-52023940133937811822023-11-19T22:26:00.000+00:002023-11-19T22:26:04.286+00:00Brighton show 2023<p>Yesterday I visited the Brighton show, a small club show in a community centre. Small as I think there were only six layouts excluding the "vintage" Triang (which I do), strangely layouts seemed to be outnumbered by club and association stands and the club sales stand seemed bigger than any layout. The layouts were nice though, and the venue seemed crowded with families which has to be a good thing. At a time when some clubs have not resumed regular shows, it's good to see Brighton are able to, even if it is small and local. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zB0kjqxY5V7QcLmH_IBefMLlNyl6_k9Dv_PI_clZIyG_oDJWuODkq8RZp4MScIrBlKOsKNbodJU92OMTSklAHGCmskl4xKLCDvmd_w5B7CcbKELnYWOBC-mUBEJkVx4iVpZ3faW7odEycXGVRuOEl70UREOdWTrSBqQVmrD_FgD-z0arfHPeoCnGTCyM/s800/IMG_3821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="800" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9zB0kjqxY5V7QcLmH_IBefMLlNyl6_k9Dv_PI_clZIyG_oDJWuODkq8RZp4MScIrBlKOsKNbodJU92OMTSklAHGCmskl4xKLCDvmd_w5B7CcbKELnYWOBC-mUBEJkVx4iVpZ3faW7odEycXGVRuOEl70UREOdWTrSBqQVmrD_FgD-z0arfHPeoCnGTCyM/w640-h396/IMG_3821.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Orestone Quay (OO) I have seen before but always happy to see again, not many standard gauge layouts manage to cram this much character and colour as well as operation into a relatively small space. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb98kf_moU2szTS-Xo75Sk7Y4itNh3fY_aDdH5oI4ggKsrgoni9fOXOhPIcx6900rBmkjTWC0fxSODQ9lFHK568MebbDXIJT0cE3f9SW-ovKEF47yX0kAtEZFIHPfDr-d3NfW9P9wZgCnE48wVED_zZCTh16ScChRytf44Hl6nLdhFdw8LEc9pg0uymEhy/s800/IMG_3823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="800" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb98kf_moU2szTS-Xo75Sk7Y4itNh3fY_aDdH5oI4ggKsrgoni9fOXOhPIcx6900rBmkjTWC0fxSODQ9lFHK568MebbDXIJT0cE3f9SW-ovKEF47yX0kAtEZFIHPfDr-d3NfW9P9wZgCnE48wVED_zZCTh16ScChRytf44Hl6nLdhFdw8LEc9pg0uymEhy/w640-h416/IMG_3823.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>That street and quayside is beautifully modelled. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-ZiG99P0ibHABxgXW7l5hZXCoET7qYb4DCpzC1rK8q1UGDJVh85v2bGVD6zfOerT_Y7e2oESEsFqwhfgMtq7rTYZfoMTdqiYD_K1uNjRJ01w0c9xYlANbYMw_mINwWxuMFr_tmsbznVE4IANozcy6-KRF3GFUT-30YPo4kWIZmhZyVOCBnSYF7CoqVmo/s800/IMG_3826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="800" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-ZiG99P0ibHABxgXW7l5hZXCoET7qYb4DCpzC1rK8q1UGDJVh85v2bGVD6zfOerT_Y7e2oESEsFqwhfgMtq7rTYZfoMTdqiYD_K1uNjRJ01w0c9xYlANbYMw_mINwWxuMFr_tmsbznVE4IANozcy6-KRF3GFUT-30YPo4kWIZmhZyVOCBnSYF7CoqVmo/w640-h368/IMG_3826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I've also seen Portsea before and think this one is worth seeing again too. It's a loose copy of Portsmouth town and harbour stations in the unusual scale of TT, very nicely modelled and the harbour station is instantly recognisable as Portsmouth. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJm3IHLShbqT4yOYXO0-hjPFNIeGex3DWdxHyni_TgggFqf89G6B9arflq_8BDgE-20p1ZPyNXFt3dgo_lTKh4O64sVglJLkfkNDgui42bbURMbb1xwkipOjhIODUN3jPpGHJesvA3_ECvu3uUbDbD_NX7AoSVjOKnJXEhN5FtzUFrI2W6Oq9473VzFchc/s800/IMG_3829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="800" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJm3IHLShbqT4yOYXO0-hjPFNIeGex3DWdxHyni_TgggFqf89G6B9arflq_8BDgE-20p1ZPyNXFt3dgo_lTKh4O64sVglJLkfkNDgui42bbURMbb1xwkipOjhIODUN3jPpGHJesvA3_ECvu3uUbDbD_NX7AoSVjOKnJXEhN5FtzUFrI2W6Oq9473VzFchc/w640-h404/IMG_3829.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>EMUs and 3rd rail electric isn't really my thing, but I do like the layout. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFLwm8hHdzfT0nzGpXsmN5l9-RBtb7HIk41pGgPBM8bYta9Jr7ewIzl2YjVN4yJqdnFXdL5EwzH3jmjT9x4cs80LtycoBw4mPGpBEeylDxXR0GxYyV1fbjXu2qPsteMaOKuC4DTUmyY4rLRrSEuuOF8RoXenpI1e4CnYf0J-OXbu5P13OKz7bFONBZonS/s800/IMG_3835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="800" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFLwm8hHdzfT0nzGpXsmN5l9-RBtb7HIk41pGgPBM8bYta9Jr7ewIzl2YjVN4yJqdnFXdL5EwzH3jmjT9x4cs80LtycoBw4mPGpBEeylDxXR0GxYyV1fbjXu2qPsteMaOKuC4DTUmyY4rLRrSEuuOF8RoXenpI1e4CnYf0J-OXbu5P13OKz7bFONBZonS/w640-h420/IMG_3835.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Holly Bank Grove (OO) is an engine shed scene with not much room for scenery although what was modelled was done well, including the track, and the varied weathering of the stock added to the realism. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxLBdGdsjsyufjZeyJu4x9kL0vLP6s-dFmhqHyNMlszd7wLCd7MogGRBxqFfBzaScgIvSXPLZKDYXh1J90Si-adw3CzQKMPJyyVmyLmp77DkqM2HYpcjRuNfl5W7dL9zJXSAzP3-k-EzP0lNsCarnc_QN-S3DBlcF-zzsIXXePd4VRnKRawq16hCmMjIA/s800/IMG_3837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxLBdGdsjsyufjZeyJu4x9kL0vLP6s-dFmhqHyNMlszd7wLCd7MogGRBxqFfBzaScgIvSXPLZKDYXh1J90Si-adw3CzQKMPJyyVmyLmp77DkqM2HYpcjRuNfl5W7dL9zJXSAzP3-k-EzP0lNsCarnc_QN-S3DBlcF-zzsIXXePd4VRnKRawq16hCmMjIA/w640-h440/IMG_3837.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Lakeside depicts California in HO, a little different and nicely modelled including some unusal detailing (see the chain gang). Conversely, the locos here could have done with a little weathing, but I liked seeing some unusual locos such as this Heisler. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaBuZCLfbH5abxzi1wIATotBeMG6khTKvOYwoxOrP2XzilkzYAEMMJuJr2yyxEywOZXuorQgR8Lg56rsguuww00sX7LX87TnapNwVZ2QqhLvKDTMBNhr8JzZtMJe5lEzExNnqxdcbEiuvc3MwcLkYVFu-iOs6esFEFrU-5LRhKKw4aAGBZwXQ6p2jnkdi/s800/IMG_3840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="800" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaBuZCLfbH5abxzi1wIATotBeMG6khTKvOYwoxOrP2XzilkzYAEMMJuJr2yyxEywOZXuorQgR8Lg56rsguuww00sX7LX87TnapNwVZ2QqhLvKDTMBNhr8JzZtMJe5lEzExNnqxdcbEiuvc3MwcLkYVFu-iOs6esFEFrU-5LRhKKw4aAGBZwXQ6p2jnkdi/w640-h436/IMG_3840.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Not strictly one of the listed layouts but Andy Knights had this micro layout on a demonstration stand, which people could have a go at operating. Nothing fancy here, but a small simple layout that anyone can have at home, which is always good to show at an exhibition.Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-79899110395685805452023-11-11T21:31:00.003+00:002023-11-29T23:55:57.257+00:00Ashover coaches part 4 - Shades of green<p>The Ashover coaches got primed today. Not much to share from that, but the next question is what livery to paint them? My usual livery is a light green, sometimes with white upper panels, sometimes with the drop window frames picked out in light brown. I <i>think </i>the usual green is Humbrol 101, although I am sometimes confused and the balcony coach in the background is Humbrol 76 - which is also my usual loco green. I'm also wondering if the lighter green is a little <i>too </i>bright, perhaps because of the way it looks under the daylight LEDs?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLWI_y2TZrlCtH65hItgL-cPdgqqfFLdzRY8HWzGhHDfr9ay1dQZ9Eu2xj5XxR8VLiGM0KPRpvZVFcGgUUMWL_fQeKjKSg7vRTVLZp0YnbOqaDuDv2G2svBrag3AGVahE0KpAe1DcThPBb126Wef-1c9mVttm433vCDQCuzu894Wu9TCWc28j7y4GYKvq/s1200/2023-11-09%2023.44.37.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLWI_y2TZrlCtH65hItgL-cPdgqqfFLdzRY8HWzGhHDfr9ay1dQZ9Eu2xj5XxR8VLiGM0KPRpvZVFcGgUUMWL_fQeKjKSg7vRTVLZp0YnbOqaDuDv2G2svBrag3AGVahE0KpAe1DcThPBb126Wef-1c9mVttm433vCDQCuzu894Wu9TCWc28j7y4GYKvq/w640-h334/2023-11-09%2023.44.37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />So, do I go for a plain green with beige window frames? The Ashover painted their coaches one colour (dark red), so this would make sense, and is much easier to paint. The modern interpretation is lined, but I don't see the lining in black and white photos of the original coaches.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/4172/33942012544_d5762c05e0_4k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="455" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/4172/33942012544_d5762c05e0_4k.jpg" width="606" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">(Photo from <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rossendalian2013/33942012544">https://www.flickr.com/photos/rossendalian2013/33942012544</a>) </div><p style="text-align: left;">On the other hand, white upper panels will look more interesting, on these coaches I'd go for white between the waistband and the top of the windows, rather like this (imagine green in place of blue):</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/1878/29351598477_459a6b0e2c_4k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="800" height="391" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/1878/29351598477_459a6b0e2c_4k.jpg" width="594" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">(Photo from <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/kitmasterbloke/29351598477">https://www.flickr.com/photos/kitmasterbloke/29351598477</a>)</p><p style="text-align: left;">A two-tone livery can be brush painted, I've done it before, but may be neater/easier by masking which would allow airbrushing, although there's a lot of masking for 5 coaches. Airbrushing could give a nicer finish and is less likely to bleed under masking, but that means using acrylics (I have no spray booth and so no desire to vaporise solvents in the house). And so we are back to paint choice, and like decorating a room, we have paint samples on the underside of the coaches, seen under layout lighting:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpgpFzU-vwNrceFsXUL5kJdHOo3b1tQAIJlOu5Vc5hnuZvWL0S7DRPpvmm3ULgU4a87CBVKZNw0cUiVoFAZvKPHhlb1wB7o_BDioT15LK3-n9Ra5_VNew3OrIjIYf-akAM3JQ4_jcH6an2XUVu0eOzsjTXaDhioVNyeA93BQ-xDh1D8_gjz7ptKHu2qrl/s1200/2023-11-11%2019.49.06.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1200" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpgpFzU-vwNrceFsXUL5kJdHOo3b1tQAIJlOu5Vc5hnuZvWL0S7DRPpvmm3ULgU4a87CBVKZNw0cUiVoFAZvKPHhlb1wB7o_BDioT15LK3-n9Ra5_VNew3OrIjIYf-akAM3JQ4_jcH6an2XUVu0eOzsjTXaDhioVNyeA93BQ-xDh1D8_gjz7ptKHu2qrl/w640-h398/2023-11-11%2019.49.06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />From the <i>right</i> we have three shades of Humbrol enamel:<p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>101 is the usual coach green</li><li>48 I thought would be a touch darker, but I think is too dark</li><li>76 is my usual loco green, and used on the balcony coach seen above</li></ul><p></p><p>From the left we have three shades of acrylic (all the shades I have!):</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Vallejo mid green, actually not far off the current green. I used this on a couple of locos recently</li><li>Vallejo gunship green, rather an olive green (or, unsurprisingly, camouflage)</li><li>Tamia deep green, a darker but a nice shade</li></ul><div>On the plus side, the roofs are simple - primed in grey, which I think will do nicely.</div><p></p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-75380653024936788062023-11-06T22:40:00.001+00:002023-11-06T22:40:17.234+00:00Ashover coaches part 3: Details and roofs<p></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The instructions don't mention handrails but pictures of the coaches show them prominently, and with the steps for low platforms they are an obvious requirement. I realised that staples were slightly too long but would fit if I was happy to accept them running to the bottom of the door, lower than the prototype, and being a flat section. I'm not making an exact model so figured the precise length and bends would save a lot of time, and look better than I can manage bending wire.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpBgkNZr3e49wGiGAwAhMu-67iRzKSEhgP3yBwm9l5DBJiiR11UQL96HUPmx183h1FiwNy4uV8FC6Y_FJ96QqY2FRwtrWUMfVr8YbSzw_yw2TCtvpxWqgCz498xjXLKaulPHNamWvnnDKqP_WVzUjqRcJqdx4pNxvzvYeOnURl6IIG1EjgOSG7eW15LaM/s1000/2023-10-28%2014.43.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1000" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpBgkNZr3e49wGiGAwAhMu-67iRzKSEhgP3yBwm9l5DBJiiR11UQL96HUPmx183h1FiwNy4uV8FC6Y_FJ96QqY2FRwtrWUMfVr8YbSzw_yw2TCtvpxWqgCz498xjXLKaulPHNamWvnnDKqP_WVzUjqRcJqdx4pNxvzvYeOnURl6IIG1EjgOSG7eW15LaM/w640-h442/2023-10-28%2014.43.45.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>I drilled all the holes (80!) with the dremel in the stand, using a slightly undersize bit as it tended to melt the hole bigger than the drill, even in short bursts (I wish it could go slower!) - but much quicker and easier than using the pin vice by hand. The staple legs were cut shorter (especially to avoid the window openings), and supergled in using a 20-thou strip of plastic for even spacing from the body. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY_YvZs5sbJKBPaNrKu-U7GVbaws8XavL76SJNeKB8jy21bXZtmHLRm1qxfF7lh07310CQg9ERcxBfaDxixS3Z3RUp0lg1Ya0bgIE9JjWytRSG9LpulzA1s_MFQXJQB9N1zW-Bp-bVQZ7K-Bggf0kqkK0U658-uFBAtxXu-dN-Of-b544Enjbor6ghwJI/s1000/2023-11-05%2023.33.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="1000" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY_YvZs5sbJKBPaNrKu-U7GVbaws8XavL76SJNeKB8jy21bXZtmHLRm1qxfF7lh07310CQg9ERcxBfaDxixS3Z3RUp0lg1Ya0bgIE9JjWytRSG9LpulzA1s_MFQXJQB9N1zW-Bp-bVQZ7K-Bggf0kqkK0U658-uFBAtxXu-dN-Of-b544Enjbor6ghwJI/w640-h282/2023-11-05%2023.33.00.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>The brake coach had steps made up from plasticard. Those at the left (saloon) end were made to match those of the other coaches, those under the guard's compartment doors made to a similar style but longer to match the double doors, and passing in front of the frame bracing. The steps are 20-thou plastic but the upright supports are 40-thou, and with a second thickness of 40-thou between the steps to support them. </p><p>I also added door handles. They are not very prominent on the photos and are quite slender on the frames of the sliding doors, so I just used short lengths of microstrip vertially on the outer edges of the doors, but horizontally on the brake compartment doors which are assumed to hinge inwards in the usual way.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAYW8Tztbmg3Z7vlpdaUQdVVRGEMJyq3bi8Zxg0tXLj9BTRsQf8MtAS6l2M8slAYZEhwSA8yFs5Mp-JfDalTaRHMMrJTJeO1NuHXt-HHCY1kHw8hM1Ou2mg4MDj6hzt19YyHApBKsOiJXlkRMB7ZUVySforiN-h16IGW44_xWMz56wXL8jJQ1Wg-t7kqB/s1000/2023-11-05%2021.39.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="729" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAYW8Tztbmg3Z7vlpdaUQdVVRGEMJyq3bi8Zxg0tXLj9BTRsQf8MtAS6l2M8slAYZEhwSA8yFs5Mp-JfDalTaRHMMrJTJeO1NuHXt-HHCY1kHw8hM1Ou2mg4MDj6hzt19YyHApBKsOiJXlkRMB7ZUVySforiN-h16IGW44_xWMz56wXL8jJQ1Wg-t7kqB/w291-h400/2023-11-05%2021.39.39.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><p>Experimenting with roofs led me to realise that they didn't fit well to the ends of the coaches, and it seemed that the ends were too low, and the top edge sloped down to the outer edge. To avoid an unsightly gap I added a strip of 20 thou plastic to the top of the end, and filed it smooth to the front and level across the top. I also added a little microstrip to the top of the door frame. You can just see the door handle behind the left handrail here.</p><p>I decided on the drinks-can roof. The moulded plastic roof was slightly too curved and wasn't smooth underneath, making shortening and fitting complex, while fabricating a plastic roof to be a neat fit and not warp is challenging, especially as the partitions leave little room for bracing underneath. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie9DjqpF06t4Kf0mYYJsoa5xr8rb1Qh3jNR-FOxHCjRwruyOZK-a2hExM3-IBUSy3z5IQVy2tcs77mXaGEj1pxWY5hWvifviIjaWMA8_GDupB_do6v8mUWhjAuu4WUqNyHTb9xYDM_TYk8IsYFNA2CBDXlQRNt0uq5YC0NgESxOtyBgqQIGvbPYeqD0Xc/s1000/2023-11-04%2016.43.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="657" data-original-width="1000" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie9DjqpF06t4Kf0mYYJsoa5xr8rb1Qh3jNR-FOxHCjRwruyOZK-a2hExM3-IBUSy3z5IQVy2tcs77mXaGEj1pxWY5hWvifviIjaWMA8_GDupB_do6v8mUWhjAuu4WUqNyHTb9xYDM_TYk8IsYFNA2CBDXlQRNt0uq5YC0NgESxOtyBgqQIGvbPYeqD0Xc/w640-h420/2023-11-04%2016.43.31.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The metal was cut to size with a scalpel using lots of light cuts. I decided to cover the metal with masking tape to give a tarred cloth finish, it also serves to stiffen the metal slightly. I took care to roll the roof onto the tape rather than flatten it, so the curvature is maintained. The sides and ends are then folded underneath. </p><p>To further strengthen the roof and prevent it distorting I added a couple of lengths of 40-thou plastic longitudanally underneath, the strips spaced apart with slices of plasticard then superglued to the roof. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_iFIujqfsFe-Cge8PEUSygbWhj1QqfIasqIXkESUXOPfKcLWhGDfTFFSnTSCpYO6Ifm53HI-3XFhiaJeTfB_YgAZak-crCr6zJeFx0-pAYGzKuufEDY_7WhkfPKz0gU9hS0qAVFAjMZj0nJXDZrUIglDTFurGB4d4FWrU0nCMr0zhvatUs8fJ567hrez/s1000/2023-11-05%2021.38.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1000" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_iFIujqfsFe-Cge8PEUSygbWhj1QqfIasqIXkESUXOPfKcLWhGDfTFFSnTSCpYO6Ifm53HI-3XFhiaJeTfB_YgAZak-crCr6zJeFx0-pAYGzKuufEDY_7WhkfPKz0gU9hS0qAVFAjMZj0nJXDZrUIglDTFurGB4d4FWrU0nCMr0zhvatUs8fJ567hrez/w640-h430/2023-11-05%2021.38.09.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Some of the kits came with lamp ventilators but they didn't match, and some kits didn't. I found a load of matching whitemetal ventilators in my bits box, not sure of the original source. I think the prototypes had torpedo type ventilators rather than these "sea-shell" type, but at least all 5 coaches will have the same type. Holes are drilled with the dremel again and they are superglued from underneath. <p></p><p>I'm also fitting rainstrips which, perhaps surprisingly given the doors being at the ends, curves over the whole length of the sides. The strips are tacked in place with plasticweld solvent, which doesn't really stick to the masking tape/metal roof, but holds it long enough to dribble some superglue along it. A fiddly job, 2 roofs are now done so just 3 more to complete!</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-19350369748322552502023-10-28T16:07:00.002+01:002023-11-06T22:40:30.657+00:00Ashover coaches part 2: adding a brake<p> Work has continued on the build of the Ashover coach kits. There are now five...</p><p>A couple of the kits came from a friend at the Sussex Downs group who was having a clear out, but with them was a partially assembled kit. After a little partial disassembly to resolve the issue I'd found with the floor width and to "open" some doors and windows, it was completed (front left in the photo below), except that the footsteps and the bogie brake gear are missing. The bogies can probably run without brake gear (only the lack of brake handles is noticeable) but as the wheels look a bit coarse I may pick up a new pair of bogies at some point. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQfCf-GwrEpnt8ZpGJGhX028xij9kt8LuKfs6SuCobGL5ePi3-NemeUgKgfGyIJcEJQZuqURErdfVWS3JJNdijSv0dHhKerZ52tdom-6lBZyJfjp5ongAuLw2A8sNswVqFDZof7r6k0nyKGGviA8UMb42tZHQ1bWhJ6YABDAeuB4ag5VcdELhwRPnKweA/s1200/2023-10-27%2016.39.49.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="1200" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQfCf-GwrEpnt8ZpGJGhX028xij9kt8LuKfs6SuCobGL5ePi3-NemeUgKgfGyIJcEJQZuqURErdfVWS3JJNdijSv0dHhKerZ52tdom-6lBZyJfjp5ongAuLw2A8sNswVqFDZof7r6k0nyKGGviA8UMb42tZHQ1bWhJ6YABDAeuB4ag5VcdELhwRPnKweA/w640-h250/2023-10-27%2016.39.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The final kit was built as a brake. After <a href="https://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2023/10/ashover-carriages.html" target="_blank">posting some options in the last update</a>, my friend Tim Sanderson pointed out that he had built some variants of these coaches including a brake to the same design as my "option C". This involved an extra pair of doors (which I had left over from those I had "opened"), but the cuts were minimal and all joins were at doors or door frames. Tim had explained these conversions in the August 2002 Railway Modeller.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiijRFVll1-kr9KK0OprhRp146fAAp5zge8y2A6hmnrmA2sn2PtCy_fEJn6AX-oJRfIqFJBjhIYRPwkASKvH39ta1oZPbWyroYeCH8SH3bMnafUqFVBk4tHetX0wch1HtKduwvz_AV82AwH7pSF102VQOn6EU6J77IDmdUXBbBk8d-4Qn56QHqhZOnr6o/s1200/2023-10-22%2017.13.39.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiijRFVll1-kr9KK0OprhRp146fAAp5zge8y2A6hmnrmA2sn2PtCy_fEJn6AX-oJRfIqFJBjhIYRPwkASKvH39ta1oZPbWyroYeCH8SH3bMnafUqFVBk4tHetX0wch1HtKduwvz_AV82AwH7pSF102VQOn6EU6J77IDmdUXBbBk8d-4Qn56QHqhZOnr6o/w640-h396/2023-10-22%2017.13.39.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So armed with Tim's article I set about cutting as shown - the end door, panel, and first window were cut from each sides (opposite ends so they are the same end of the coach, if you see what I mean). The windows were then cut away, and the door/panel swapped to the other side of the coach to put the panel outer, and the door plus the additional door set into the side. I made the cuts with a scalpel (new blade), light cuts from the front then deeper cuts lined up from the rear, leaving a surprisingly clean cut.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuWUpbwXt1F2ySalA4Z145sfYYBJac_c8plJO9_F38qaIcYfp-MZGwR6CPj26QEcWW5GDjbccsEwYO2yhQpvjdyp-tDWW4xJFolxU_gGJJC8z6A4J2su4JaGBIH0VmLeS1R4liGMd8WX4kvpEBCjDKgOSCLUMW8lXXg-PJhDVaDNjC6IHiZn3dV_8d-EW/s1200/2023-10-23%2020.59.44.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="1200" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuWUpbwXt1F2ySalA4Z145sfYYBJac_c8plJO9_F38qaIcYfp-MZGwR6CPj26QEcWW5GDjbccsEwYO2yhQpvjdyp-tDWW4xJFolxU_gGJJC8z6A4J2su4JaGBIH0VmLeS1R4liGMd8WX4kvpEBCjDKgOSCLUMW8lXXg-PJhDVaDNjC6IHiZn3dV_8d-EW/w640-h386/2023-10-23%2020.59.44.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As with Tim's conversion on reassembly new framing was needed over the double doors (in one piece) and between them and the rest of the coach (to match the other side of the doors). These were made using 40 thou (1mm) plasticard cut to strips the same depth as the coach side, the frame being the thickness of the plastic. There's no significance in the use of black or white plastic, just the scraps that happened to be on the bench!</div><div><br /></div><div>One other change I made was to the door windows. The end doors on these coaches slide behind the blank panel, and the broad cross-member is probably related to the sliding mechanism. However, the luggage compartment doors would probably hinge outward as per a normal carriage door, there being nowhere the inner door could slide anyway. So I cut away the cross-member and made their windows into normal drop-frame carriage windows, with a couple of them partially open. Also as seen below, small pieces of plastic microstrip were added to the frames to represent the outward-opening hinges. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjplTJuFdcTOfpVnEb_LZese3NiWsD-5HWjdXWONorvGAbh8In_c3a2Min4GFgXC0ilyYNY8XtbMToGC-O0lsZOmt4I2IyLAHyQllkRM1w8u51Od4Rbci6Ybq_3JDO4Ft6i6Emn03KF0tm15KCfY0qq8BGvFOLAo0ISwALmwM4Vuzt2zPPcWqjs37Tu8aFH/s1200/2023-10-27%2016.40.16.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1200" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjplTJuFdcTOfpVnEb_LZese3NiWsD-5HWjdXWONorvGAbh8In_c3a2Min4GFgXC0ilyYNY8XtbMToGC-O0lsZOmt4I2IyLAHyQllkRM1w8u51Od4Rbci6Ybq_3JDO4Ft6i6Emn03KF0tm15KCfY0qq8BGvFOLAo0ISwALmwM4Vuzt2zPPcWqjs37Tu8aFH/w640-h344/2023-10-27%2016.40.16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Given the preservation era of Hexworthy I see this vehicle being mainly for the carriage of push chairs and prams, and to give access for wheelchairs, let's assume a big ramp is carried inside. So the saloon has the usual bench along 4 windows, ending in half-height partitions, then a space by the 5th window which could be for wheelchairs or prams. There's a partition separating the saloon from the luggage compartment but the double-doors would be convenient for disabled access. I do need to sort out steps for this carriage too, bearing in mind the double doors away from the end. </div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJZwKWajPjbbIALF5-YdQykXGUubw20Ho1p5AHMw6_6r4RQU7sXvgJsdFf2bm2KzPS5LyVnwjQk3zhXX5rOU67YSTwVjP3oRxhGk3PHy673xU4EDQQdGEvtW7yzJyzN5xea5EUOZL0Xp95TpUuB-S36GqMRGIAmA6mCW6fHaSvn2YGV-CjuK2OkzbSZ9_/s1200/2023-10-07%2014.46.57.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="1200" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJZwKWajPjbbIALF5-YdQykXGUubw20Ho1p5AHMw6_6r4RQU7sXvgJsdFf2bm2KzPS5LyVnwjQk3zhXX5rOU67YSTwVjP3oRxhGk3PHy673xU4EDQQdGEvtW7yzJyzN5xea5EUOZL0Xp95TpUuB-S36GqMRGIAmA6mCW6fHaSvn2YGV-CjuK2OkzbSZ9_/w640-h252/2023-10-07%2014.46.57.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Next I need to decide how to tackle the roof. It is tricky as the roof will be fitted last (after painting, glazing, etc) and needs to fit neatly, but with little support needs to be rigid enough without appearing too thick. It doesn't help that the doors and end seem very slightly lower than the top of the sides. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Some kits came with a thin sheet of plastic, which I have curved by taping to a can then dunking in boiling water (left). It will need trimming to fit, but experience says this will need significant bracing if it is not to sag, and could still be at risk of warping. </li><li>Alternatively, the tall drinks can cuts easily to form a pre-curved thin metal roof (middle). This won't warp, but would need some strength to prevent it bending or getting squashed in the middle, and would need sticking down very firmly. It also may be more tricky to add rainstrips to. </li><li>Another option is the Dundas moulded plastic roof for the Vale of Rheidol coaches (right). This is about the right width and too long, so would need cutting down. It's a little thick but not excessively so, and rigid enough without bracing. However, the moulding has recesses just inside the end (presumably for the ends of the coaches they are designed for) and so cutting to length could leave a gap over the end. I only have a pair of these so would need to order more.</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAY3NUaFeAaq1CoLxMZql50paN2DJlGVez7kfZEvt1DFqrOpTX0NNSKBJpnLLFsoGFA7DgzmNtC3xsFm-QzeBszjhOGF7pd3GebgQ2WG7mmF49MkCWezVxOy1ACUfQ29RpBLssFfnJDCshdMHVEl80c2acssqr0opuzfoAS-xYmwL2Rmu1mwbNQURgb3on/s1200/2023-10-07%2014.48.06.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="1200" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAY3NUaFeAaq1CoLxMZql50paN2DJlGVez7kfZEvt1DFqrOpTX0NNSKBJpnLLFsoGFA7DgzmNtC3xsFm-QzeBszjhOGF7pd3GebgQ2WG7mmF49MkCWezVxOy1ACUfQ29RpBLssFfnJDCshdMHVEl80c2acssqr0opuzfoAS-xYmwL2Rmu1mwbNQURgb3on/w640-h296/2023-10-07%2014.48.06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><br /></p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-76316352971214842852023-10-22T23:23:00.007+01:002023-10-22T23:23:54.981+01:00Uckfield 2023<p>Yesterday I was at the Uckfield model railway exhibition helping Robin Edwards with his O14 layout Tony's Forest. I've seen this superb layout a couple of times and it was a pleasure to operate. As the name suggests, it is set in a forest which is beautifully modelled with big trees, undergrowth and flowers. There's also a quarry loading screen under which wagons can be loaded. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQm9marVbDHtcmYG3ACAFNW1yH10ZwXl36Vjvth0DenWuL5JwEeVpI55dQ2rgOd5JScPfhZccvU3lGxwzRTkO9CeGNaWC3KQ17ql2fqAct0FLT4FfWvHLYH-jq-XeEt4s_8r4CNBj9kG9SwCKooffPZo1RD7ndRCzmHxbPK3XLNRN6il20W3yg4m1izkQT/s800/IMG_3777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="800" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQm9marVbDHtcmYG3ACAFNW1yH10ZwXl36Vjvth0DenWuL5JwEeVpI55dQ2rgOd5JScPfhZccvU3lGxwzRTkO9CeGNaWC3KQ17ql2fqAct0FLT4FfWvHLYH-jq-XeEt4s_8r4CNBj9kG9SwCKooffPZo1RD7ndRCzmHxbPK3XLNRN6il20W3yg4m1izkQT/w640-h444/IMG_3777.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Uckfield has a reputation of showing high quality layouts, and this year was no exception. My favourite was Rodmell Green, a 009 layout by Allen Etheridge on its first showing. This showed industrial narrow gauge with appropriate stock and muted, gently weathered colouring giving a consistent finish. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-FF-RpCZF09JaUl9VoJ00azZahF99yAix2pDxHOLLxmKJWz521d3hYicsg0gzh2omk4PWCGBAogYiSI7prfQwYvkfWuT1Yx7IjXWA2wrjU_XsXm-DMeEGVgQH99ScinWnkfiZsCvhc1Pmz2KdS28F69_6h64xzFKNs5MmBxIomCN_RkzwhnwG1KU6US_/s800/IMG_3786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-FF-RpCZF09JaUl9VoJ00azZahF99yAix2pDxHOLLxmKJWz521d3hYicsg0gzh2omk4PWCGBAogYiSI7prfQwYvkfWuT1Yx7IjXWA2wrjU_XsXm-DMeEGVgQH99ScinWnkfiZsCvhc1Pmz2KdS28F69_6h64xzFKNs5MmBxIomCN_RkzwhnwG1KU6US_/w640-h426/IMG_3786.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Inside a shed, the skips were unloaded using a mechanised arm magnetically lifting loads out. Allen said he'd been inspired by <a href="https://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2013/10/remote-unloading.html" target="_blank">the method I used on Thakeham Tiles</a> having seen it in use at Uckfield a few years ago, although his unloading arm was motorised rather than using a manually operated mechanism as I did. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV32kq10e4xRcp5VwJusbQ7D9tUqdOBuSoDj4EPBBY1e0lp5hgyPXrTP85ijZjKVDF5vnxm7P0NAd-wrRyLZ7RrNore7rpKQmX8ZhUJtw-7nh3KSOyyhHsIqnud8_taplhaAmkSmYfbhUEDkkL8KiLAaeozNNFkPYxxDzZY1YMiMRDOEwGt4mo4Dka0Lz0/s800/IMG_3665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="800" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV32kq10e4xRcp5VwJusbQ7D9tUqdOBuSoDj4EPBBY1e0lp5hgyPXrTP85ijZjKVDF5vnxm7P0NAd-wrRyLZ7RrNore7rpKQmX8ZhUJtw-7nh3KSOyyhHsIqnud8_taplhaAmkSmYfbhUEDkkL8KiLAaeozNNFkPYxxDzZY1YMiMRDOEwGt4mo4Dka0Lz0/w640-h446/IMG_3665.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This year's show was in part a tribute to the late Iain Rice, who did so much to develop approaches to layout design and exhibiting through his books, as well as techniques for building finescale models. The show included no less than 5 layouts (in P4 or EM) Iain had built or been involved in building, including Hepton Wharf and Butley Mills which I remembered featuring in some of his books, and the impressive Longwood Edge, although my favourite was one of his later layouts Trerice. This is a compact and characterful layout with its China clay dries. I did see this layout with Iain operating at a previous Uckfield show, and it was nice to see it still being used in new hands. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBH5DcESIwA8MGsvY8I4XLE_CLx9XCZwoBooAHVwU9IxZJ_-N6zhyphenhyphenGX5t80bg-vaohKkUfKR-NCpvgRxpGiL3CcOsve50LjU8zwTBMGDLhn6m0ln06NZkGu0D8Lanuo_T9wVJbScetNowDBwwNbaSVRUDrgfYYvzyWbuUWtEDEVvemj_W2Q6vnWYueYgNL/s800/IMG_3682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="800" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBH5DcESIwA8MGsvY8I4XLE_CLx9XCZwoBooAHVwU9IxZJ_-N6zhyphenhyphenGX5t80bg-vaohKkUfKR-NCpvgRxpGiL3CcOsve50LjU8zwTBMGDLhn6m0ln06NZkGu0D8Lanuo_T9wVJbScetNowDBwwNbaSVRUDrgfYYvzyWbuUWtEDEVvemj_W2Q6vnWYueYgNL/w640-h332/IMG_3682.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another nice compact but interesting layout was Arcadia in the unusual S scale (1:64) by Richard Barton, based on Colonel Stephens practice. In this scale everything must be hand-built, and everything looked and ran perfect. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkXefJ8WBlWWyFhZMasfBqLheHUitfchnFBYz4JtftkkpdFiKBS4y41ci7fEqlWGO5qd9TJcUW6u8xj97R-iFJrX5fglL1T1mZ-7DtNHUiEJKyhipJB5Q09dx_GT3YuhpW_AE1vxZbztTzT4-vQ4dku9Dk9YxkU3Alm5LmfZMuTv_ybLqEBedQn4YrQ3V/s800/IMG_3735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="800" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkXefJ8WBlWWyFhZMasfBqLheHUitfchnFBYz4JtftkkpdFiKBS4y41ci7fEqlWGO5qd9TJcUW6u8xj97R-iFJrX5fglL1T1mZ-7DtNHUiEJKyhipJB5Q09dx_GT3YuhpW_AE1vxZbztTzT4-vQ4dku9Dk9YxkU3Alm5LmfZMuTv_ybLqEBedQn4YrQ3V/w640-h396/IMG_3735.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another compact and characterful layout was Ewe (OO) by Rob Gunstone. The track plan is simple, the same loop and two opposed sidings as Chris Ford's Dury's Gap, with a Wisbech and Upwell tramway setting on the banks of a waterway. The lush scenery threatening to overcome the tracks, grey big sky background, and nicely weathered trains worked together beautifully. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuE2ztIP78I1W8KKt3-pUrVnpK_ta6TMjbhNzDrPM5xCOaJxT3WclxKPOd4OvX61VVFpzSTjig-QB_gEA6CRGBNt6BV3KM_WeQVgXtghMFJR0yM02Q2GNo2_gTr1ukXUAYb5DsOBpP5ELyvN3TBp9M8dlrAJ4a2UIoZ9yxi_r8FUW2-TOVhcXESCWUdoFW/s800/IMG_3792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="800" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuE2ztIP78I1W8KKt3-pUrVnpK_ta6TMjbhNzDrPM5xCOaJxT3WclxKPOd4OvX61VVFpzSTjig-QB_gEA6CRGBNt6BV3KM_WeQVgXtghMFJR0yM02Q2GNo2_gTr1ukXUAYb5DsOBpP5ELyvN3TBp9M8dlrAJ4a2UIoZ9yxi_r8FUW2-TOVhcXESCWUdoFW/w640-h460/IMG_3792.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>In the last 15 minutes of the show I ran one of my O14 locos on Tony's Forest. I'd crudely fitted a pair of Greenwich couplings to my Hudson Hunslet in place of my usual Microtrains, which surprisingly worked with Robin's stock. It did look rather at home in the forest. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ziYZcYF1xljJLzGj5FBofa9UfHeeuWQ0EBKNU3X94w5zRcFQ4549QoxuEJFZOm8BIEqy4hxNUXXBEynvnbZDl5pn-zqEbPt3jUclyoX1tr6lKwi2OyNV_2NKUQ1InSm2_RE52yUVltgNPuI229YG8yamw41iVKlRk6kmhQvrU5t0jmHPL2nfiNAFk0qV/s800/IMG_3803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ziYZcYF1xljJLzGj5FBofa9UfHeeuWQ0EBKNU3X94w5zRcFQ4549QoxuEJFZOm8BIEqy4hxNUXXBEynvnbZDl5pn-zqEbPt3jUclyoX1tr6lKwi2OyNV_2NKUQ1InSm2_RE52yUVltgNPuI229YG8yamw41iVKlRk6kmhQvrU5t0jmHPL2nfiNAFk0qV/w640-h456/IMG_3803.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p>So an excellent show, an enjoyable day, and a big thanks to Robin for letting me play with his layout. There are more of my photos of the event including other layouts <a href="https://imgur.com/gallery/sh3cgg1" target="_blank">here</a>. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-37749532151373848412023-10-15T21:24:00.000+01:002023-10-15T21:24:45.486+01:00Linda<p>Waaay back in 1993 I remember attending the Festiniog "Hunslet Hundred" celebrations as a teenager. The elegant lines of the Penrhyn "Ladies" made an impression on me, especially Linda. When Bachmann launched their models of the locos in Penrhyn condition last year it was clearly just a matter of time until the modern 2-4-0ST+T incarnations arrived.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkQ-M624enkp4inVu72taded1WymPkAUDCRQbTKFTVHSWzYJC5m_7ea-M7lBBS3CCEONkHgQjF-SJw1EzGt4EUJ39xGPMm9_OYYmRWocX12hs_u36UPGIcoTJwWiYb3exojdfI41WkULIYCuQyM3uRHTvpN5uCEn1SX65XSDIEhlJP3Ivcm9aXG5JuHie/s800/2023-10-14%2016.14.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="800" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkQ-M624enkp4inVu72taded1WymPkAUDCRQbTKFTVHSWzYJC5m_7ea-M7lBBS3CCEONkHgQjF-SJw1EzGt4EUJ39xGPMm9_OYYmRWocX12hs_u36UPGIcoTJwWiYb3exojdfI41WkULIYCuQyM3uRHTvpN5uCEn1SX65XSDIEhlJP3Ivcm9aXG5JuHie/w640-h444/2023-10-14%2016.14.57.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So when I heard they had arrived, exclusively, at the Ffestiniog Railway shop I scraped together my savings and ordered Linda. There is something rather rakish I think about her longer cab roof and open tender. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NIblVZJUFTsadphbq6V-iec_di_IzQDCbPWzXrV5Ow0qBZrjXxF7Q3D5yAxESIl598Usf34HAgpBHc8h4hINxqzWTYXT3esHNQuRKAkkdvXgvZMsu1bUK7lHBipn8B4laZbqll3MVreaAkXXLR46Zahd1ZaJkPESjn2jgf1jCClXVDqAQktWhJlQCLIl/s800/2023-10-14%2016.13.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="800" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NIblVZJUFTsadphbq6V-iec_di_IzQDCbPWzXrV5Ow0qBZrjXxF7Q3D5yAxESIl598Usf34HAgpBHc8h4hINxqzWTYXT3esHNQuRKAkkdvXgvZMsu1bUK7lHBipn8B4laZbqll3MVreaAkXXLR46Zahd1ZaJkPESjn2jgf1jCClXVDqAQktWhJlQCLIl/w640-h372/2023-10-14%2016.13.43.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As with other recent Bachmann models, the detail is exquisite, with Linda's open cab showing off the cab detail nicely (but crying out for a crew!), and the livery and finish is very fine. Of course, it runs as well as it looks. This will look great pulling trains into Hexworthy - although I expect some subtle weathering may be applied, and it will need a crew. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-tWsaXVFPqO7nrAds_kojDqO_DszouObKhMO0Uw7ayrScRTp_3594uJlz81yJoazuzKiaspi7t46nV_WjlpOCaAYCdrOVLmQpPwEgNLKyZb7izpTO9qMKIhJk2xSwuNk4fOQ4PvFFnTSVl8CO3V2_Z2Rl9R4AMqkDX1unZuCStSNV5VLDYkhiK7-eKAL/s800/2023-10-14%2016.13.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="507" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-tWsaXVFPqO7nrAds_kojDqO_DszouObKhMO0Uw7ayrScRTp_3594uJlz81yJoazuzKiaspi7t46nV_WjlpOCaAYCdrOVLmQpPwEgNLKyZb7izpTO9qMKIhJk2xSwuNk4fOQ4PvFFnTSVl8CO3V2_Z2Rl9R4AMqkDX1unZuCStSNV5VLDYkhiK7-eKAL/w406-h640/2023-10-14%2016.13.06.jpg" width="406" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As with the other models of these locos, there is a firebox glow. A nice touch. Really, the only thing I don't like is the plasticky full load of coal in the tender. Why does it always have to be full? </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDnYflCv5bSspz1pdVn3yzUyiBGsNB0XxM2xGjW4XBg75MQ42JWn7XcSXzXhL93Q5bzGnaegh5WmFkzWLfBmZP7XVp0vi-BE0xJtAepuipPj-S8LK7iPkh8tChnGrFjXNbiMOoV5LSBP5OzOQnm_ng0UMNrYgHXOXh_d5jMwQmSsjO11TsV7Goh49LXvh/s800/2023-10-14%2016.15.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDnYflCv5bSspz1pdVn3yzUyiBGsNB0XxM2xGjW4XBg75MQ42JWn7XcSXzXhL93Q5bzGnaegh5WmFkzWLfBmZP7XVp0vi-BE0xJtAepuipPj-S8LK7iPkh8tChnGrFjXNbiMOoV5LSBP5OzOQnm_ng0UMNrYgHXOXh_d5jMwQmSsjO11TsV7Goh49LXvh/w640-h400/2023-10-14%2016.15.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Both my models of the Penrhyn ladies together. Comparing them, the addition of the pony truck to Linda is barely visible, but the tender and indeed the re-profiled cab roof are obvious. Look closely and there are other differences - the addition of sandboxes, blower pipe, lubricator, vacuum pipes, drain cocks, and a conversion to left-hand drive (note the obvious reversing rod on the left side of Linda, found on the right of Blanche). Bachmann appear to have done their homework. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-79970450833545281182023-10-07T16:54:00.000+01:002023-10-07T16:54:48.335+01:00Ashover carriages<p>Hexworthy will need some passenger stock, so I have collected a few of the Meridian kits for the Ashover Light Railway carriages. Bachmann are soon to release a ready-to-run model so I need to get on and finish my kits first! The kit is reasonably straightforward although I guess it is getting old as there is some flash to clean up, nothing too dramatic though. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg544D8gs9EhjL8Lm-OmImtEKV0r0qw49tWaZndjkKsouZlgPkmfseOOaTCynIeFDSJKF5AVFWUWzw076q7-LoOA-Aeu9XWF6rkqR1RFxnE-9InsM628Z2JO9gl6dSU3SxuklKXlt3Cf7in-8f_gxUFrMPYN2Ky7BxQN0nRMti-dQ5v11YlrfieOSMC2YPX/s800/2023-10-07%2012.41.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="800" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg544D8gs9EhjL8Lm-OmImtEKV0r0qw49tWaZndjkKsouZlgPkmfseOOaTCynIeFDSJKF5AVFWUWzw076q7-LoOA-Aeu9XWF6rkqR1RFxnE-9InsM628Z2JO9gl6dSU3SxuklKXlt3Cf7in-8f_gxUFrMPYN2Ky7BxQN0nRMti-dQ5v11YlrfieOSMC2YPX/w640-h284/2023-10-07%2012.41.34.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The first was built while demonstrating at Alexandra Palace earlier in the year, and the second at Amberly in the summer. It wasn't until I got to the third until I wondered whether I should open a window. I don't have a book on the Ashover but found a couple of photos in my library showed that yes, the side windows opened in the usual way, so a few windows were modified cutting out part of the frame with a strip of microstrip across (3rd window from right on the rear coach). <div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6LpN1CFk9qFOm2m61Z4lM4YOIB2kjQRbxGkxgp_bKC86kwjphebL4iP7xo2wHuMYf7wJxMwRZW04X-KnhEkud_aWJwhPGrKaad4bV2OJaTuhLBoEPdRY9KcFn3vv2EGhjMrGNVJc6Q56nTKHW6i5pa97lWihG_dOc2jW0avuMh_UNO4s8LBfCd_AdL-8/s800/2023-10-07%2013.36.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="588" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6LpN1CFk9qFOm2m61Z4lM4YOIB2kjQRbxGkxgp_bKC86kwjphebL4iP7xo2wHuMYf7wJxMwRZW04X-KnhEkud_aWJwhPGrKaad4bV2OJaTuhLBoEPdRY9KcFn3vv2EGhjMrGNVJc6Q56nTKHW6i5pa97lWihG_dOc2jW0avuMh_UNO4s8LBfCd_AdL-8/w470-h640/2023-10-07%2013.36.56.jpg" width="470" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The pictures also showed the doors open, they slid behind the adjacent panel. I don't know they they were left open when the train was in motion (I expect so), and I guess that would be frowned upon on a preserved railway, but nonetheless I thought it would be interesting to model the doors open on one end. Cutting them out wasn't as difficult as I feared, some planks were scribed in the floor and I added a strip of 40-thou plastic along the inner frame to represent the edge of the door recessed into the panel. </div></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsO17JdEsYkO_LDAI5-lbyWKxJyhhDW1-DE2i8rPFR9o081KCkdCZuVnrLHcWJ798qOmZ0AXXo88TGo02Dfbl09ArRbBS7cCtEasI9Ea8rmCvy3ZfNmEjFiZf1MA_slwE-r-bhcmkFijfSdByTzAUIZTJHzjlFQYw8L_lFvzvI9E47B_a3cExjdtH_-zeT/s800/2023-10-07%2012.42.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="800" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsO17JdEsYkO_LDAI5-lbyWKxJyhhDW1-DE2i8rPFR9o081KCkdCZuVnrLHcWJ798qOmZ0AXXo88TGo02Dfbl09ArRbBS7cCtEasI9Ea8rmCvy3ZfNmEjFiZf1MA_slwE-r-bhcmkFijfSdByTzAUIZTJHzjlFQYw8L_lFvzvI9E47B_a3cExjdtH_-zeT/w640-h592/2023-10-07%2012.42.49.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I have picked up a few tips for assembling these kits well. First, the floor half mouldings are slightly too short and too narrow. The length isn't a real problem as when assembled with one side and one end then joined, there's a gap of about 30 thou in the centre, but that doesn't cause any issues. The width though means that if the sides are joined to the floor they will bow in, a strip of thin plasticard along one side of each floor piece solves that, checking that the side and end come together. Also, the tops of the body sides are prone to warping inwards. I've taken to cutting pieces of sprue to form cross-bacing as seen here, and also for later builds adding a strip of 40-thou plastic along the top edge. </div><div><br /></div><div>Opening the doors of one coach left me with a spare pair of doors, with one unbuilt kit left. While the Ashover didn't have a brake coach (they were vacuum braked so perhaps not necessary), I thought a preserved railway might have a coach adapted for wheelchair users, children's buggies, etc. So here's some photo-edits to consider how the final coach <i>could </i>be adapted.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3unYcv90eD2d07JMolhzU-ythOtQIKOjJlAfS7RaCIRpwI-u-cecc93rra_Exo3PyRkWD6GvoCySBWTYCWkfnky2s_o9Wb5eXj-c9odn4g_rQWNP_YpinX-TT9_Kyo7k1Q3wtavG6E6_-vNbew11LteAmk-Mw78WeHfPjsDq_cf1DmTXD57W13ZOA8mEd/s800/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="800" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3unYcv90eD2d07JMolhzU-ythOtQIKOjJlAfS7RaCIRpwI-u-cecc93rra_Exo3PyRkWD6GvoCySBWTYCWkfnky2s_o9Wb5eXj-c9odn4g_rQWNP_YpinX-TT9_Kyo7k1Q3wtavG6E6_-vNbew11LteAmk-Mw78WeHfPjsDq_cf1DmTXD57W13ZOA8mEd/w640-h220/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Option A: A pair of doors at the end, these would have to be hinged rather than sliding of course. I could omit the vestibule partition to make an open saloon, with the right two windows and to the right-hand end, which would make sense for wheelchairs although it isn't really a brake/guards coach. The steps would need extending. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuqxf0jgb9idxUEJHyjcsLw6vBwCHfXaa45-LrcklMxXxph_8UUdKy26lRysR9T_sQtWGLrNABoN1qkP-GMQ4LP4RihnVqIGNzN4y-s9juSA8dRgxTmp5CfsQVSu7cUkbdMonErmlvG7vu_edODPe_5JrfKU-jZvFGekjZbXDUrqIU0QvKst68ezkP_ss/s800/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="800" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuqxf0jgb9idxUEJHyjcsLw6vBwCHfXaa45-LrcklMxXxph_8UUdKy26lRysR9T_sQtWGLrNABoN1qkP-GMQ4LP4RihnVqIGNzN4y-s9juSA8dRgxTmp5CfsQVSu7cUkbdMonErmlvG7vu_edODPe_5JrfKU-jZvFGekjZbXDUrqIU0QvKst68ezkP_ss/w640-h220/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Option B: I noticed the door is exactly the width of the window, so by cutting out a window the two doors can be added with an adjacent panel, looking more like a guard's compartment. The inner partition splits the coach 1/3:2/3 so would fit between the fouth and fifth windows, or the second and third, neither of which makes much sense. Blanking, frosting, or replacing the right-hand window with a ducket would make more of a traditional brake coach, but wouldn't help with wheelchair access.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVHi8tPg5pyVaD4uclmdO6yfytx9lHJ23aaOJxPv0e_NjIstqTjGcoLbiGad39B4TtQ8gqhg47ERutHATvsHaZSEqb5fwjR3YmcVb767ixRTkfPSPdw2MPddy2c1HdVQrQZm-o03rLx5uwLUtPIAZBnK9fnKKalx31tdY0mnUOD3p82Z5tB2VcPCyuoYh/s800/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="800" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVHi8tPg5pyVaD4uclmdO6yfytx9lHJ23aaOJxPv0e_NjIstqTjGcoLbiGad39B4TtQ8gqhg47ERutHATvsHaZSEqb5fwjR3YmcVb767ixRTkfPSPdw2MPddy2c1HdVQrQZm-o03rLx5uwLUtPIAZBnK9fnKKalx31tdY0mnUOD3p82Z5tB2VcPCyuoYh/w640-h220/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Option C: As above but with the cut-out door and panel swapped sides to put the panel towards the end. Actually, I don't think this makes any more sense than B, and the steps might get more complex.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cvw2-81wwhBwBASsFPORx9bmBPIwXWlQ4EiN_nW8HzQS1pnI7GerOre6nCiuSV7PkUcexo_6nYw4HmQIoYKiwCrL33fWsGBQRxEzgFXkUqHjzfUrEjXs6SwhsEOA7kb-fNEIPGN5yRSonjgBdiP4uq5OUggk-8vFNkWdjNVJHtD_mOH4zoj5K8uUDnZo/s800/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="800" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cvw2-81wwhBwBASsFPORx9bmBPIwXWlQ4EiN_nW8HzQS1pnI7GerOre6nCiuSV7PkUcexo_6nYw4HmQIoYKiwCrL33fWsGBQRxEzgFXkUqHjzfUrEjXs6SwhsEOA7kb-fNEIPGN5yRSonjgBdiP4uq5OUggk-8vFNkWdjNVJHtD_mOH4zoj5K8uUDnZo/w640-h220/2023-10-07%2013.38.07%20V4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Option D: Including a window in the cut-out and swapped section would provide an observation end compartment (taking advantage of the end windows), albeit rather small, and there's still little space for a guard's compartment. Maybe the same with two windows to the right, with just three to the left and the double-doors just right of centre might make more sense. </p><p>Thoughts welcome!</p></div>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-41706336243306927042023-10-02T20:48:00.000+01:002023-10-02T20:48:17.355+01:00The "Ultimate" fiddle yard - refinements and finishing<p>So, here's where I think the problem is. With the sector plate of the home fiddle yard (left-hand diagram) the latch arm is pivoted in line with the movement of the pin, so it's movement is perpendicular to the pin movement. However, with the traverser (right-hand diagram) the pivot must be set back, causing the arm to be at an angle, and more importantly the movement of the notch is not perpendicular to that of the pin. When the traverser is pulled forward (down in the diagram) the pin pushes the notch away easily, but when pushed back (up) as the arm moves the slope out of the notch is effectively steepened, requiring much more force to move it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YdBSmJwTq4sx1AlfQLqGfQUnMlSHiI6xV0sR3ywWFCtR901UfFt4RkHJV0TNv_Zuicu8NrcAb8Sn_M5P6nhXu4hZbjrD8ifwQKt81bqWOszl0MhTdUOu29aXsdyWkN_qfgX0euiMktBMrnYWPF_sAdq5ZyV6HtSNA7WSJOny8yRO66hj0DGNW7AYrImL/s960/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YdBSmJwTq4sx1AlfQLqGfQUnMlSHiI6xV0sR3ywWFCtR901UfFt4RkHJV0TNv_Zuicu8NrcAb8Sn_M5P6nhXu4hZbjrD8ifwQKt81bqWOszl0MhTdUOu29aXsdyWkN_qfgX0euiMktBMrnYWPF_sAdq5ZyV6HtSNA7WSJOny8yRO66hj0DGNW7AYrImL/w640-h480/Slide1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p>It had become clear that no amount of adjustment of the shape of the notch was going to allow the traverser to release forwards smoothly while latching positively, and I couldn't move the location of the pivot for the latch arm. Therefore if the traverser was to move smoothly and not jolt so that trains were derailed, a <i>latch-release mechanism</i> would also be required. I gave this some thought since the objective of the latching mechanism was to make fiddle yard operation easy and requiring minimal intervention from the operator, the latch release would therefore need to be easy and instinctive to use one-handed so that the traverser could be moved with the other. That meant it had to disengage the latches at both ends of the traverser, and return to self-latching mode once released. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5MlUvjMF-QUKqxzvLIEp6apLzHYP9lF_8hhvrE78ItILlLl18M-L3KLehkXW2Y__bX_J7BU67Zx-ih0kbeY33K9KdVrDxTkc99kOWx3j5rWcGaem5osoS-4MzC_ZUYBjV2NnqcHUgJo2KJhSivSFD89czzafsTK6niIQMW1GHr-tI-TEqa5iRIblThm0/s800/2023-09-24%2016.30.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="800" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5MlUvjMF-QUKqxzvLIEp6apLzHYP9lF_8hhvrE78ItILlLl18M-L3KLehkXW2Y__bX_J7BU67Zx-ih0kbeY33K9KdVrDxTkc99kOWx3j5rWcGaem5osoS-4MzC_ZUYBjV2NnqcHUgJo2KJhSivSFD89czzafsTK6niIQMW1GHr-tI-TEqa5iRIblThm0/w640-h368/2023-09-24%2016.30.45.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This view of the underside shows the solution I came up with. </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>At the top left of this view is a wooden lever on the front fascia of the board, pressing this down rotates a dowel "shaft" which runs across the board (top to bottom on the left of this view). </li><li>The shaft rotates a wooden arm, the top of which pushes the aluminium latch lever back (left) away from the pins, releasing the latch. </li><li>The lower end of the arm is linked to another dowel that runs along under the board (left to right in this picture), such that the rotation of the first shaft causes this dowel to push to the right</li><li>At the end of this second dowel another wooden arm is pushed against the aluminium latch at the far end of the traverser, releasing that end too</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXNGTAGrH4KXjwRZLDgNPaUSAiYG8NjM8V15euXXOVCG0IENRaNDXWtPFF1iorXEm7EpCwcdY8M7zJwvSiPACACFYCeMLcQsqQLfHSfrQNvSQFmRk0V-MlzKgbLtauYQNTNCdSitAgEieIlY2nGTEmXre-0MsYURkVBfBQUX8dfsci56gDP-ux7daqpv7/s800/2023-09-24%2016.07.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="800" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXNGTAGrH4KXjwRZLDgNPaUSAiYG8NjM8V15euXXOVCG0IENRaNDXWtPFF1iorXEm7EpCwcdY8M7zJwvSiPACACFYCeMLcQsqQLfHSfrQNvSQFmRk0V-MlzKgbLtauYQNTNCdSitAgEieIlY2nGTEmXre-0MsYURkVBfBQUX8dfsci56gDP-ux7daqpv7/w640-h250/2023-09-24%2016.07.09.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>With the traverser deck removed the two dowels can be seen, with the wooden arms that bear on the latch levers. Pressing the lever on the front left of the board thus pushes both latches back and releasing the traverser to move smoothly. Releasing the lever allows the latches to spring back into place, and so the traverser will then slide into the next latch position.</div><div><br /></div><div>This view also shows a wooden arm fixed to the deck on the left, this is a "gate" that swings out to prevent runaways from the traverser when it is pulled forward. Held with a single screw it simply pushes back parallel to the board as shown for transport. There is a similar gate at the right-hand end. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSO1JHCgSxzyxhMPfzDenmGnAd1u5pr_MG0wDh-C5sNFK4y85N3odTzQG9cVnTgP-JiKpw6oUaBC7dr-9spZhGcVdBwFpTkmF3NG2Gh9lUaFBxmLbVuTpXsjYUCg7Qc3P5r9UL5Vr341OufbVFSdKEjb-XFh0EQvtGzEcS6puYu6yQlhxBiK3DT3gpq0Lh/s800/2023-06-11%2023.19.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="551" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSO1JHCgSxzyxhMPfzDenmGnAd1u5pr_MG0wDh-C5sNFK4y85N3odTzQG9cVnTgP-JiKpw6oUaBC7dr-9spZhGcVdBwFpTkmF3NG2Gh9lUaFBxmLbVuTpXsjYUCg7Qc3P5r9UL5Vr341OufbVFSdKEjb-XFh0EQvtGzEcS6puYu6yQlhxBiK3DT3gpq0Lh/w440-h640/2023-06-11%2023.19.11.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another refinement is this old bathroom door draw-bolt. The lower part is fixed to the supporting cross member and the upper part is on the front of traverser, engaging the bolt locks the traverser in place for transport. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSBZwcMLR3o9LdbOODH2WQhQUNlfnyoDmO7KyQtjSedoRA5hQShVKwp9c-WbEIZbydR56mpT2KExL8Jy14lQO1AmyJ1W6t8OuvwkU_OdoM9PKpBVUsmrczbLkBg4WCOmJQsAEHCMhsvQn9gIwi3OLFfen6-WupahPjjlLnhiUmAqgBcRN346bc30-D6lZ/s800/2023-09-23%2011.51.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="800" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSBZwcMLR3o9LdbOODH2WQhQUNlfnyoDmO7KyQtjSedoRA5hQShVKwp9c-WbEIZbydR56mpT2KExL8Jy14lQO1AmyJ1W6t8OuvwkU_OdoM9PKpBVUsmrczbLkBg4WCOmJQsAEHCMhsvQn9gIwi3OLFfen6-WupahPjjlLnhiUmAqgBcRN346bc30-D6lZ/w640-h334/2023-09-23%2011.51.10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>As seen in the photos above the fiddle yard board got a coat of the standard grey paint used on my recent layouts, to match with Hexworthy. The smaller home fiddle yard also got a coat of paint. I use grey wood primer from Wilkinsons (although a primer it has a nice finish), I guess I'll need to find another source when this runs out. Mind you, it's oil based, smelly, takes ages to dry, and is a paint to clean out of brushes, so next time perhaps I'd choose a water-based paint!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWb2Z5Bl7ed4cNWAEAOmK3osV9gJhllCgAWz20N4Ve_i13vTI1LDO6uJIGWEJFOK0eOQ4F81K3kmr1xQ0Ed7_zB-MId9pSXH-y7zRyxo9mu5Qgl35IiTvEhQEk6xfiElGXGpGE3ECdeDF7L0_uH7SnxQsrHBFDAigDTIbZ9bZrzQmiQoUKFfAhhXqRqn6/s800/2023-09-24%2016.29.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="800" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWb2Z5Bl7ed4cNWAEAOmK3osV9gJhllCgAWz20N4Ve_i13vTI1LDO6uJIGWEJFOK0eOQ4F81K3kmr1xQ0Ed7_zB-MId9pSXH-y7zRyxo9mu5Qgl35IiTvEhQEk6xfiElGXGpGE3ECdeDF7L0_uH7SnxQsrHBFDAigDTIbZ9bZrzQmiQoUKFfAhhXqRqn6/w640-h474/2023-09-24%2016.29.33.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The paint really smartens the fiddle yard, although I have not painted the deck or moving parts. Here the latch release lever can be seen, as can the two gates that protect the ends of the traverser when pulled forwards. </div><div><br /></div><div>So the exhibition fiddle yard is now complete. It seems to work well in the brief tests so far, but will spend most of its life in the garage, I guess the real test will be when it gets used in anger. </div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, life might have been much easier if I'd gone for a simpler turntable <i>or </i>traverser, rather than combining the two. The original intention was to have the benefits of a turntable (fast turnaround with no stock handling) while able to turn it when used against a wall at home, hence the need to pull it clear of the wall. Now I can't erect this fiddle yard against the wall at home anyway and as rebuilt it can only turn when pushed <i>back</i>, but decided I might as well continue to use the sliding/rotating arrangement as:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>I'd already got the sliding/rotating assembly which seemed to work so might as well reuse it</li><li>The traverser arrangement allows parallel tracks so I can fit more in - a turntable needs space for the tracks to curve at the ends, so less tracks in a given width</li><li>It actually proved handy. Being able to slide it away from you and rotating it without having to get off a stool and move out the way is quite useful!</li><li>The double-ended latching arrangement works with a traverser but wouldn't with a turntable. (I expect it could work with a turntable using a common return rail powered through the pivot bolt and a changeover switch for the polarity when turning, perhaps as microswitches set up to automatically switch)</li></ol></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQCPc0-LB00tiXA3vY00JDJ6tpE0KqBMeFvvoJMysjk-UoM-5D-VUMS4_vrimAGi3ljZtF4w-x2DSxnMa4zX0ZhpCCryRi2YSsIGKj4_QSJxPrZPSwhE6x5e8bLiO5wNNaKWu2nxZRRB1kPwtSs4chZkd2HRpcSkhYH_pSuWkudItqyyJssK0cOZeAdyp/s800/2023-09-24%2010.04.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="800" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQCPc0-LB00tiXA3vY00JDJ6tpE0KqBMeFvvoJMysjk-UoM-5D-VUMS4_vrimAGi3ljZtF4w-x2DSxnMa4zX0ZhpCCryRi2YSsIGKj4_QSJxPrZPSwhE6x5e8bLiO5wNNaKWu2nxZRRB1kPwtSs4chZkd2HRpcSkhYH_pSuWkudItqyyJssK0cOZeAdyp/w640-h422/2023-09-24%2010.04.08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Finally, here's the home fiddle yard in place with Hexworthy. The grey paint looks much neater, again the moving deck is unpainted. The pillar on the right is the reason for the L-shape fiddle yard and why the larger exhibition fiddle yard can't be used here. </p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-37673094433266629452023-10-01T14:28:00.000+01:002023-10-01T14:28:33.304+01:00The "Ultimate" fiddle yard - Latching mechanism<p>The next job in the fiddle yard rebuild was to create a latching mechanism that aligns the traverser tracks to the entry track, and provides power to the aligned track. This uses the same sprung notch and pin arrangement as <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2019/08/remote-operated-sector-plate.html" target="_blank">proven on Loctern Quay</a> and the <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2022/11/a-new-fiddle-yard-for-hexworthy-part-2.html" target="_blank">home fiddle yard</a> for Hexworthy. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdb2pAZ2bP4Qg7mB2sTAXKsZ7cNDVxhr44wY_4HFUpB7ZxbsCz2Cp4DJ2aD2GtNmMPBqwsticazrvZlrb-_LrNT_xc6mTdRUPw9EEu9uvcjuW1_XaguHVi-W7OxbDVEgIC1bOjGSkPJoXqQoELNztcdMRDFVOg9UXm152x8xxkFD_UKG3wVpCEPUqeIuO/s800/2023-06-04%2016.07.53.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="543" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdb2pAZ2bP4Qg7mB2sTAXKsZ7cNDVxhr44wY_4HFUpB7ZxbsCz2Cp4DJ2aD2GtNmMPBqwsticazrvZlrb-_LrNT_xc6mTdRUPw9EEu9uvcjuW1_XaguHVi-W7OxbDVEgIC1bOjGSkPJoXqQoELNztcdMRDFVOg9UXm152x8xxkFD_UKG3wVpCEPUqeIuO/w434-h640/2023-06-04%2016.07.53.jpg" width="434" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>First holes were drilled in the PCB near the end of the traverser deck centrally between each set of rails. Normally I'd fix the track after putting the pins in and line them up to the entry track, but here the tracks are already in place. I cut a jig from brass sheet to slide tight between the rails with a hole dead centre, then used the Dremel in it's stand to drill a vertical hole, first as a pilot then opened up to the size of the brass tube. The holes go through the PCB strip, the 5mm PVC foam deck, then the second layer of PVC foam that forms the protruding lip, this makes sure the brass pins are held very securely. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheH5t5aEzsg1rCfrZ5jobwXHHyVePHvWGN18gONdZsLVx9d1Kaj4CuPVWrhTZNQJPrijE_FXT1iesQEB0dmnMCWVYBKhBh4OQdCQXG8GEk7AcHBCVbI8MH4Jn1roNdrHrRR1tSz2jz_E6a1h77dm_rrwgKdqa_33bFbqcOc08uGueRSVAJpzhpDD0ercbA/s800/2023-06-04%2016.32.31.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="800" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheH5t5aEzsg1rCfrZ5jobwXHHyVePHvWGN18gONdZsLVx9d1Kaj4CuPVWrhTZNQJPrijE_FXT1iesQEB0dmnMCWVYBKhBh4OQdCQXG8GEk7AcHBCVbI8MH4Jn1roNdrHrRR1tSz2jz_E6a1h77dm_rrwgKdqa_33bFbqcOc08uGueRSVAJpzhpDD0ercbA/w640-h408/2023-06-04%2016.32.31.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The alignment pins are made from brass tube chopped into lengths of about 20mm to go through both layers of PVC foam and protrude about 5mm below. This tube was 3/32" or ~2.4mm diameter, not that the diameter matters that much. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIvh14W9rDPO6Q64RRvcv4aw4VquXZQWIpF0-_7ns9pW9VLSosXvFt_UFWh1WbrL7VSLjW-0cTQFSGVVXGqp5Z1ld8WDIb6QD5_D9iW82MYeiXP4yYb1R77C1WWpxyMkviyEzyLGX_C7thATZysK0xHZZUrXMZO_xLTEJhRR_ImSRD6GuCkQfnPhfiX9z/s800/2023-06-04%2016.39.23.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="800" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIvh14W9rDPO6Q64RRvcv4aw4VquXZQWIpF0-_7ns9pW9VLSosXvFt_UFWh1WbrL7VSLjW-0cTQFSGVVXGqp5Z1ld8WDIb6QD5_D9iW82MYeiXP4yYb1R77C1WWpxyMkviyEzyLGX_C7thATZysK0xHZZUrXMZO_xLTEJhRR_ImSRD6GuCkQfnPhfiX9z/w640-h422/2023-06-04%2016.39.23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The pins are a tight fit through the hole so were tapped into place with a hammer, the top just protruding above the PCB, and are then soldered to the PCB. The PCB was gapped to one side of the pin so that it is electrically connected to one rail. The pins are all connected electrically to the right-hand rail looking at the end of the traverser, so those at opposite ends of the traverser are connected to different rails. The protruding lip has been covered in graphite to ensure smooth travel below the fixed end deck.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-GqAhO6yveC-bOFi5D2XTOmaK76KMWqTTg79z9bR5hdE8JNDTGIBCNlCmvmyJXagnWqe8oIda1JLsJowWh008_rURzIcdU0Vx6v25XegexwSV8qFSHtKiZWVpQDbXdrEKop2b6pGCSnw_Ags3dgC8R6Ou3CqfH27dRIRb6Y4-Qc4nja0M_6dRRdNJHpW/s800/2023-06-10%2014.42.12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="800" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-GqAhO6yveC-bOFi5D2XTOmaK76KMWqTTg79z9bR5hdE8JNDTGIBCNlCmvmyJXagnWqe8oIda1JLsJowWh008_rURzIcdU0Vx6v25XegexwSV8qFSHtKiZWVpQDbXdrEKop2b6pGCSnw_Ags3dgC8R6Ou3CqfH27dRIRb6Y4-Qc4nja0M_6dRRdNJHpW/w640-h412/2023-06-10%2014.42.12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The components of the latch mechanism:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A spring taken from a soap dispenser as shown</li><li>A length of aluminium - in this case T-profile - with a pivot hole at one end, and a curve cut and filed at the other, with a V-notch at its centre. There are also 3 holes through the vertical web</li><li>A long screw which passes through a hole in the aluminium, through the spring, and into the block of wood which is fixed to the board.</li></ul>In this way the screw acts as a limit stop, spring retainer, and tensioner, the three locating holes allow the spring/screw to be located at varying tension and leverage locations. Note that this fiddle yard has TWO sets of alignment mechanism, one for each end of the traverser.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A-tzk8yCWRWdMk9QOUoU7xXonH58YXYShawQP4sHdH2m8lg5ZAZrvWLq5C7iu4vGMA6OQTSqyYjcJHc-xUTz1mHI1bXCD_ii8Cj7fD3EzeZLtR2-Q6dChG6t1lkzlCFAwdXCSN1PLqB01Rim4aRFwFoo-fEnEsjgVWj-JDzZVVTkwVvttphfGQsS8wlP/s800/2023-06-11%2023.21.33.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="559" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-A-tzk8yCWRWdMk9QOUoU7xXonH58YXYShawQP4sHdH2m8lg5ZAZrvWLq5C7iu4vGMA6OQTSqyYjcJHc-xUTz1mHI1bXCD_ii8Cj7fD3EzeZLtR2-Q6dChG6t1lkzlCFAwdXCSN1PLqB01Rim4aRFwFoo-fEnEsjgVWj-JDzZVVTkwVvttphfGQsS8wlP/w448-h640/2023-06-11%2023.21.33.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>From the underside the aluminium arm is bolted in place with the wire to one rail (labelled "front") connected to it via a washer, it is free to pivot in the horizontal plane. The wood block is fixed to the board too, with the spring between it and the arm pushing the arm away. The long screw both locates the spring and acts as an end-stop for the arm, in this view the arm is at its furthest travel with the end between two of the five brass locating pins. </div><div><br /></div><div>When the traverser slides the pins push the arm back until they drop into the V-notch, being a round pin in a vee they locate the track, and being metal they conduct the power to the rail.</div><div><br /></div><div>This just shows one end, an identical mirror-image latch is provided at the other end of the fiddle yard with the arm connected to the red wire. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DXZ7fb5XTcHwjSc7udrzhD21jbPnlfIEP9aho4JTyqWAPMya-US1iK2Tf3BOYRRYkJBLLShBW8Fu9CFlRiOkxxWJKpFSpb3YwW6MnlNlVPlJFbgK0vy3hyphenhyphenmdPOIpAeriT6UC7RjPiA-WXsJdnfuDnpeqk55zVUsqJzWvulX1pdO6GNGBhAZ2lLi6o5Pd/s800/2023-06-11%2023.18.39.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="800" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DXZ7fb5XTcHwjSc7udrzhD21jbPnlfIEP9aho4JTyqWAPMya-US1iK2Tf3BOYRRYkJBLLShBW8Fu9CFlRiOkxxWJKpFSpb3YwW6MnlNlVPlJFbgK0vy3hyphenhyphenmdPOIpAeriT6UC7RjPiA-WXsJdnfuDnpeqk55zVUsqJzWvulX1pdO6GNGBhAZ2lLi6o5Pd/w640-h456/2023-06-11%2023.18.39.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>From above with the traverser pushed back the arm can be seen pushed fully out by the spring. The shape of the face of the arm and the notch are adjusted so the pin slides easily into place. Note how the lower lip of the traverser slides under the fixed deck helping to ensure accurate vertical alignment.</div><div><br /></div><div>The entry track was trimmed and fixed in place lined up with the layout tracks, and also with the traverser tracks when they are aligned with the pin/notch (including both ends of the rotating traverser). A couple of the traverser tracks needed realignment with a soldering iron, but despite the less than ideal order of construction this seems to work well. The fiddle yard connects to the main board with an audio (RCA) lead, the other end of which connects into the choc-block connector under the board.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mf7ARqfoxv_s0dWb1fgPdXaUD56vi_vPaT1KdA-9WqHApnUsAbL72PsQFIMvZBVnniNyabKzuHw1T5LRVono1FA7j0QsUeFn1NMfXJedEl5-nDP9daB0TPXNbX6D7Dt35N70FZm8A1wPTE3rItiOSL-NK1n4kwS87WUk8r40GW1d709rO6VEfn5el_Ag/s800/2023-06-11%2023.18.22.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Mf7ARqfoxv_s0dWb1fgPdXaUD56vi_vPaT1KdA-9WqHApnUsAbL72PsQFIMvZBVnniNyabKzuHw1T5LRVono1FA7j0QsUeFn1NMfXJedEl5-nDP9daB0TPXNbX6D7Dt35N70FZm8A1wPTE3rItiOSL-NK1n4kwS87WUk8r40GW1d709rO6VEfn5el_Ag/w640-h426/2023-06-11%2023.18.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><p>The extra depth of the rebuilt fiddle yard allowed the pivot bolt to be inserted with the nuts below (Awngate had a very shallow baseboard), this meant only the shallow mushroom head of the bolt protruded. This meant I could make the centre track a through road rather than having two dead-ends, both making it more useful and making the electricals easier, so a short length of track was cut to fit the gap between the existing PCB strips. However, the bolt head caused a hump in the track, and cutting away the sleepers meant the rails touched the bolt head. I carved away the lower part of the rail with the dremel so they sit neatly over the bolt head, and the red insulating tape should prevent any shorts. There seems to be adequate clearance for wheel flanges. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFcjitqyqtZWXaKe0p5tvC0ORDA1jGUfioZlTxff4CwjI3qINhEtYokQ1FtZ9gJqBL1eY6eHy0Cvabe9oNJU8gFzGwScoGDFMRxWAryPFPM3iR7658tq7PFEg4S1MglMfLB4Cdfpd0vEP5sCcHiQR-ClP3vnGRGzvyahLkByqM5-oJLACCPOji2PviKNa/s800/2023-06-11%2023.17.03.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="800" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFcjitqyqtZWXaKe0p5tvC0ORDA1jGUfioZlTxff4CwjI3qINhEtYokQ1FtZ9gJqBL1eY6eHy0Cvabe9oNJU8gFzGwScoGDFMRxWAryPFPM3iR7658tq7PFEg4S1MglMfLB4Cdfpd0vEP5sCcHiQR-ClP3vnGRGzvyahLkByqM5-oJLACCPOji2PviKNa/w640-h356/2023-06-11%2023.17.03.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>An overview of the assembled fiddle yard. It can be seen how the two "handles" lock the rotating upper deck to the traversing lower deck, they are unlocked when the handles are folded down to act as end-stops preventing stock runaways when rotating. Rotation is free and smooth, the latching seems to work well, and sliding the traverser forwards is smooth. However... when pushing the traverser back the latch is difficult to overcome and movement can start with a jolt, which is likely to derail trains.</p><p>I realised that the previous latching fiddle yards I have built were sector plates, the curvature of which allows the latching arm to be pivoted at a point <i>in line with</i> the track join, and so the arc of the movement of the arm is perpendicular to the movement of the pin - that is, the v-notch moves directly away from the pin and resistance is <i>equal in either direction</i> (see <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2022/11/a-new-fiddle-yard-for-hexworthy-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a>). In this case the arms have had to be pivoted some way back from the track join, and despite making the arms as long as possible they must be at about 20 degrees to the line of travel of the traverser. Pulling the traverser forward the pin has an easy job to slide out of the v-notch, but when pushing the angle of movement of the arm effectively steepens the "slope" the pin has to push against to free itself. </p><p>Hmm...</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-46780947190335170862023-09-30T00:10:00.000+01:002023-09-30T00:10:14.017+01:00Rebuilding the "ultimate" fiddle yard<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last year I <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2022/11/a-new-fiddle-yard-for-hexworthy-part-2.html" target="_blank">adapted the fiddle yard for Hexworthy</a> to suit its new location, but that has limited capacity and is only intended for home use. You may remember the <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2015/09/tracks-and-wires.html" target="_blank">sliding and rotating fiddle yard</a> built for Awngate, the plan was to use that for Hexworthy too. Of course, it wasn't that simple... Hexworthy has a deeper baseboard, originally overcome by adding battens under the fiddle yard, but that wasn't an elegant solution. Also, when revising the home fiddle yard I'd changed from using split hinges to <a href="http://michaelsrailways.blogspot.com/2022/10/a-new-fiddle-yard-for-hexworthy.html" target="_blank">dowels and catches for board joins</a>. Also, the wiper contacts with microswitches hadn't proved a robust and reliable way to power and align the tracks, and since then I'd come up with a better solution. So, a significant rebuild was needed...</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwUxWgYoOo6alqTHIyp6aM3gcclciDN1Z6TSP_NzB6sFrCSAqwclXXYJlZYEJdTX-uV_ZBLocQPrES_u01y6v3suuszUt6idCzXPxhfnKR1AfoilNw85taHiwj1hdRIvaWuTr-ZoTDTTJB-CN7xjmR0HX4GMpUnixqaqpZ79mazbJBRsKbBKbdjFoxCou/s800/2023-05-23%2022.09.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="800" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwUxWgYoOo6alqTHIyp6aM3gcclciDN1Z6TSP_NzB6sFrCSAqwclXXYJlZYEJdTX-uV_ZBLocQPrES_u01y6v3suuszUt6idCzXPxhfnKR1AfoilNw85taHiwj1hdRIvaWuTr-ZoTDTTJB-CN7xjmR0HX4GMpUnixqaqpZ79mazbJBRsKbBKbdjFoxCou/w640-h490/2023-05-23%2022.09.29.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div>The existing fiddle yard was dismantled, parts of the frame were reused but the plywood ends, front, and rear were cut from offcuts in the garage to suit the deeper board. This took a bit of thinking as rather than building a baseboard and then fitting it with a fiddle yard, I was building the existing fiddle yard elements into a new frame - so had to take great care to get the surface height correct. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWHHbkbZvHA0qiL-kPpyw__yb4Daia9YuDcar7J-aqo0t8uV9wj24AN_69hyz11KOuqYWvKQy10rViXrweZ4n0L1vaxmVwwhx2wKbbNwV5mv-QcCma6AyFCKPXJIImeM_2HcftO0t6uE7S6kZTMJDYV8oE_2FmuiKCPsxiwIG9b0a5zWLoftlTOFtdinq/s800/2023-05-23%2022.11.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWHHbkbZvHA0qiL-kPpyw__yb4Daia9YuDcar7J-aqo0t8uV9wj24AN_69hyz11KOuqYWvKQy10rViXrweZ4n0L1vaxmVwwhx2wKbbNwV5mv-QcCma6AyFCKPXJIImeM_2HcftO0t6uE7S6kZTMJDYV8oE_2FmuiKCPsxiwIG9b0a5zWLoftlTOFtdinq/w640-h426/2023-05-23%2022.11.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The rotating deck (top) is unchanged but the lower sliding part was trimmed. The larger of the trimmed material was attached under the ends of the top rotating deck forming a protruding lip to pass under the edge of the fixed part of the deck. Lower cross-beams were added underneath for the runners. The rotating deck is then bolted to the lower sliding deck as before. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvLGfC7P_AZR5fP7wllSA-_gA7Jsz5E6mfcsTxyGgys3T0Kq5nXS_D-jnE51gAkiA6Z8yW40HFT7TF_QX5zxrsPyGeY-Ukbq6QhVcAhoqo7qP4-dskuekuM5Dn4iRMWhBCwU244BZR76TqDzAW71uMplsEsunifytFyj5OMQ_DV8gFtvWlqJcX6-Uh41i/s800/2023-05-29%2022.39.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="800" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvLGfC7P_AZR5fP7wllSA-_gA7Jsz5E6mfcsTxyGgys3T0Kq5nXS_D-jnE51gAkiA6Z8yW40HFT7TF_QX5zxrsPyGeY-Ukbq6QhVcAhoqo7qP4-dskuekuM5Dn4iRMWhBCwU244BZR76TqDzAW71uMplsEsunifytFyj5OMQ_DV8gFtvWlqJcX6-Uh41i/w640-h422/2023-05-29%2022.39.04.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The fixed decks at the end were attached ensuring the height matched the scenic baseboards, and overhanging the protruding lip from the rotating board. The rotating and sliding assembly was then attached via ball-bearing drawer runners to two cross-members, packing under the ends of the cross-members being used to level and match the height. Surprisingly, I managed to get the height matched and a free moving traverser. Previously double-stacked runners had been used to allow the deck to move either forward or backward far enough to rotate, but here I've simply used a single set of runners so the deck must be pushed back to rotate, the fixed deck being cut away to facilitate that within the limit of the runner span. The shelves were recovered from the first incarnation.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNX5YAfNynIagUM4tjLLw8k6cmsZ46_JGNM2d1SW-CIIWezzcX8eJsjj3Xn4jdKvfWj2Tog3JicHQsUqwbEnJD0NJPLdvWSVqlMC8YGDqQN3HiOdhTTGrTOHmNpmFmhjzOXuUw9Adb2sYSGnpcU-04o3WkJd9SMz-VE37P3DeGDinvHhKccPTQpogwra67/s800/2023-05-29%2022.39.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="800" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNX5YAfNynIagUM4tjLLw8k6cmsZ46_JGNM2d1SW-CIIWezzcX8eJsjj3Xn4jdKvfWj2Tog3JicHQsUqwbEnJD0NJPLdvWSVqlMC8YGDqQN3HiOdhTTGrTOHmNpmFmhjzOXuUw9Adb2sYSGnpcU-04o3WkJd9SMz-VE37P3DeGDinvHhKccPTQpogwra67/w640-h408/2023-05-29%2022.39.27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another tricky job was fitting the dowels in exactly right place to get the baseboard aligned and connected to the main baseboard. Again, using a wood template, I got there in the end. The fixed end decks are recovered from the old fiddle yard but still needed trimming as the end plywood was thinner! Nothing seemed simple here. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOurvDrxi1LHQGfDeZJuPHVfDf8CgBURB9jHz8Y_2YMcb2xBNfgVCj5zLzakojn3pni93NzS9PP0_w1AQfjvS0j-92oHNg3bst3WrvqYbbPy1uWv0448G3vB6yw6HGONf9_uWsrd2jhFPTYMdUJ-pVL3Vmu9bGcfxiM17sa-YwRdLNdsIXy-Qz6hN_SYy/s800/2023-05-29%2022.39.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="800" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOurvDrxi1LHQGfDeZJuPHVfDf8CgBURB9jHz8Y_2YMcb2xBNfgVCj5zLzakojn3pni93NzS9PP0_w1AQfjvS0j-92oHNg3bst3WrvqYbbPy1uWv0448G3vB6yw6HGONf9_uWsrd2jhFPTYMdUJ-pVL3Vmu9bGcfxiM17sa-YwRdLNdsIXy-Qz6hN_SYy/w640-h410/2023-05-29%2022.39.51.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Despite the back-to-front build I managed to get the fiddle yard constructed to fit to the Hexworthy baseboard, with a deck that slides to align tracks then slides right out to allow the deck to rotate. The rotating deck with end-gates that also lock the rotating deck to the sliding deck is pretty much unchanged, but most of the rest of what is seen here has been modified or reconstructed. Yes I do seem to over-complicate things! Next up will be the latching and electrical system.Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1400903239930176564.post-47982158244130824252023-09-20T23:58:00.000+01:002023-09-20T23:58:30.257+01:00009 Society 50th Anniversary Exhibition - Statfold Barn<p>Last weekend the 009 Society celebrated its 50th anniversary with an exhibition held at the Statfold Barn Railway. Actually, "exhibition" feels a rather inadequate description. It was my first visit to Statfold, which is a privately owned narrow gauge railway and collection.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiati-SqlMZNytl0UaMnmqaTnitHwAg0tAxUVhN0F5zmFQ2UEKdoiaUg3nuCDXfaSml7tvWI7FPZR1JXkDkxHcCnHJIz0Ibojb06To1oTCh5S3t991dAMxPzExoE6bgAHgEYFO-OncB7jl8BtOi_NFFj8MptyOL-cfVWUbC3HhLQNtB6udGb7CIiyK4tnda/s800/2023-09-17%2011.24.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="800" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiati-SqlMZNytl0UaMnmqaTnitHwAg0tAxUVhN0F5zmFQ2UEKdoiaUg3nuCDXfaSml7tvWI7FPZR1JXkDkxHcCnHJIz0Ibojb06To1oTCh5S3t991dAMxPzExoE6bgAHgEYFO-OncB7jl8BtOi_NFFj8MptyOL-cfVWUbC3HhLQNtB6udGb7CIiyK4tnda/w640-h440/2023-09-17%2011.24.50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The railway is nice, but the collection of narrow gauge locos in the roundhouse is astonishing...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_vx3j6xIKJbmTjTMu0U4bqGN1SuHpVbn2aYC0Urv5hg8V1XG4ANQKx6reC20gT-BZhtv_SfwZPd_ynK5Fb5Paa8a6HKn1hRtnMNTUBSG7_SqwMIugeAzyhukmKQfghaJPqz69Zu29lpTgOWeStl7SwXMMyqbrlMb_blO_06TsKGNlfBiLLP93feU-fZv/s800/2023-09-16%2019.36.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_vx3j6xIKJbmTjTMu0U4bqGN1SuHpVbn2aYC0Urv5hg8V1XG4ANQKx6reC20gT-BZhtv_SfwZPd_ynK5Fb5Paa8a6HKn1hRtnMNTUBSG7_SqwMIugeAzyhukmKQfghaJPqz69Zu29lpTgOWeStl7SwXMMyqbrlMb_blO_06TsKGNlfBiLLP93feU-fZv/w640-h320/2023-09-16%2019.36.29.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Not just a collection - I understand that most if not all of these locos are in full working order with boiler certificate. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0-PtTOhIo8AQedwWRSYyXBPoA0tWab7lt2GxhTK5M29rxtYaMvIt0B_vLg9iT7bemCTgFKrhHsQIxftEd4OLFBNjKBvLSb8SSk066agkY-0P1a2iOFhyV5FAwl2b2TpXfJuUmIarg3zPFsS1CzAzJW8tnNcYwjBTQn2-kTeZI79q3qzIy8-WOuwsUiJX/s800/2023-09-16%2019.36.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="800" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0-PtTOhIo8AQedwWRSYyXBPoA0tWab7lt2GxhTK5M29rxtYaMvIt0B_vLg9iT7bemCTgFKrhHsQIxftEd4OLFBNjKBvLSb8SSk066agkY-0P1a2iOFhyV5FAwl2b2TpXfJuUmIarg3zPFsS1CzAzJW8tnNcYwjBTQn2-kTeZI79q3qzIy8-WOuwsUiJX/w640-h404/2023-09-16%2019.36.32.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>There are more locos out of use. There was even one with my name on it!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Wh-IrBGfYMLozjnvJJm4bvXfdvx6YkDEfqdrAYv9U3gDv9uIaskQIz_V6YD9v1e787W8WHE58CmwejclZeNkkUxE6wg2tJfj1fOiaKz53CXH2C4HnDX2k_p6K-EHTjBnIz6coKyDLlz5NgcBeJuKkZXdDciTbFrdvDbICcfuWcdOu_ziSe-K6H0kk9Tk/s800/2023-09-16%2019.35.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="800" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Wh-IrBGfYMLozjnvJJm4bvXfdvx6YkDEfqdrAYv9U3gDv9uIaskQIz_V6YD9v1e787W8WHE58CmwejclZeNkkUxE6wg2tJfj1fOiaKz53CXH2C4HnDX2k_p6K-EHTjBnIz6coKyDLlz5NgcBeJuKkZXdDciTbFrdvDbICcfuWcdOu_ziSe-K6H0kk9Tk/w640-h454/2023-09-16%2019.35.18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The roundhouse was the perfect venue for the anniversary dinner on the Saturday night, a real celebration. There was a great atmosphere all weekend.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKYkFfBY6bvHwFwoNepRxG4PzE0wI3esYkArZmG-Nf1CkYOjByHV_QkeQzsvWT0TjaG0tt8IlNJBJqPuysxZoByxRMpC4oNrgVpDQlZesfHkwIhhZ-Uw4MXkDR-lVwWFY0A1Fng3vYnFpUZ1V2R_mMG-AyUmzD0UTe1-Ub_RYEPxvjgkcbCwSOW72mMXU/s800/2023-09-16%2019.34.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="800" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKYkFfBY6bvHwFwoNepRxG4PzE0wI3esYkArZmG-Nf1CkYOjByHV_QkeQzsvWT0TjaG0tt8IlNJBJqPuysxZoByxRMpC4oNrgVpDQlZesfHkwIhhZ-Uw4MXkDR-lVwWFY0A1Fng3vYnFpUZ1V2R_mMG-AyUmzD0UTe1-Ub_RYEPxvjgkcbCwSOW72mMXU/w640-h330/2023-09-16%2019.34.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Well, back to the exhibiton, which had about 50 invited layouts from most of the area groups plus a few extra layouts brought by their owners on one or both days, and trade support including Peco/Kato and Bachmann. The Saturday was only for 009 Society members, and felt like a giant member's day, although with over 900 visiting members (on top of those exhibiting) it was busier than most member's days I've been to. It was great to see old friends and meet new people, including some forum members I'd never met in person. The Sunday was open to the public, and felt slightly quieter but still busy most of the day. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuMlTwPG9CYr6yYZwPkJr6jdSOi2fc7XB2eO70TpagGJf--yJEilqOPp-rhK7jET34biRBG65p2dALMyPd_AAvleIkjVgV0ziv3yEjAwDLRXCu1TdVoQvq-WRG-6aE49TRtRbAve8-W1JRq94YUsTpJl8nPWK3dXaHzltFD5dJpIcQ7k5jKE8T_pcKhke/s800/2023-09-17%2009.45.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="800" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuMlTwPG9CYr6yYZwPkJr6jdSOi2fc7XB2eO70TpagGJf--yJEilqOPp-rhK7jET34biRBG65p2dALMyPd_AAvleIkjVgV0ziv3yEjAwDLRXCu1TdVoQvq-WRG-6aE49TRtRbAve8-W1JRq94YUsTpJl8nPWK3dXaHzltFD5dJpIcQ7k5jKE8T_pcKhke/w640-h438/2023-09-17%2009.45.41.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I took Loctern Quay, and my son was due to take Slugworth & Co., but unfortunately was ill and unable to come. So, I ended up with two layouts. As you'll see below the Sussex Downs group was quite stretched, so I was thankful of help from Will Booth and Harry Mantheakis on the Sunday allowing me to have a better look around (and even a ride on the train). Both layouts performed well, although I was thankful for the continuous circuit of Slugwoth and confess that most of the weekend I just left a train circulating, periodically changing the train. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jOAyO_xkz5_6LjyYzBTKPiZn46JJ5q4gnBvzsn3IKRX2V3BfmbKnoeFj564MjzAb-6Qe5F2kiU0D4O_L1oVYxzLbxnmJkJgdxMPk9cJs1uPA8RnD_L4lwWzGGrppKMtE7MQZzx1TUvTkXSfoR_ZFOwr1Kctjnmh5eSBCAE4gJa6DRrwGvTrP-Hcef2s2/s800/IMG_3258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jOAyO_xkz5_6LjyYzBTKPiZn46JJ5q4gnBvzsn3IKRX2V3BfmbKnoeFj564MjzAb-6Qe5F2kiU0D4O_L1oVYxzLbxnmJkJgdxMPk9cJs1uPA8RnD_L4lwWzGGrppKMtE7MQZzx1TUvTkXSfoR_ZFOwr1Kctjnmh5eSBCAE4gJa6DRrwGvTrP-Hcef2s2/w640-h424/IMG_3258.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Also from the Sussex Downs group were two other layouts - one was Llandecwyn by Martin Collins. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQ5dHvRMdJJ8yyvRxPwfCG2e8KwBqPu5SI91s_JSKv7UdvG1XR47Q7nHhxkZjSFB-ADud1kT89Hec5FtQRhJc4x_P3fVtyn2yghIUMa7rDcbIWCUICE5oG0pGupCmmRXQpz5ULxcx6GTFKh-GfoBM1QV0tShEDmfsNO0P241vcEdB4t96QPV1xxfzVH9N/s800/IMG_3316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="800" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQ5dHvRMdJJ8yyvRxPwfCG2e8KwBqPu5SI91s_JSKv7UdvG1XR47Q7nHhxkZjSFB-ADud1kT89Hec5FtQRhJc4x_P3fVtyn2yghIUMa7rDcbIWCUICE5oG0pGupCmmRXQpz5ULxcx6GTFKh-GfoBM1QV0tShEDmfsNO0P241vcEdB4t96QPV1xxfzVH9N/w640-h392/IMG_3316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The other was Kurseong by John Crane, a model of the real station on the Darjeeling Himalayan railway, which was deservedly voted "most appealing layout" by the society members visiting on the Saturday. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>I have uploaded a <a href="https://imgur.com/gallery/SR0Zd2c" target="_blank">collection of photos of many of the layouts here</a>, although not a complete record of all the layouts at the show, partly due to limited time and I focused mainly on layouts I've not seen before or rarely see, and partly because some of my photos didn't come out wheel (possibly because I rushed). You will see that the overall standard of the layouts was very good. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcDs-cD0V-csEUdsGJP_EZKXuMuT1q-o13KuBb-kB2kHMM7fe7Qq7bQNHv59s_n_BsBzHhB8ezQC4YX6qDA0-Tef42pZ4s0Bv_8TMbqOAV6SIl6_UJ6toe5ORSvfMyTWNXuGt7RTxMC3cktSULVanhd-NykY3-1mmede31Pcq9cz7vzuK3zDykJDUGyNq/s800/20230920_230118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="800" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcDs-cD0V-csEUdsGJP_EZKXuMuT1q-o13KuBb-kB2kHMM7fe7Qq7bQNHv59s_n_BsBzHhB8ezQC4YX6qDA0-Tef42pZ4s0Bv_8TMbqOAV6SIl6_UJ6toe5ORSvfMyTWNXuGt7RTxMC3cktSULVanhd-NykY3-1mmede31Pcq9cz7vzuK3zDykJDUGyNq/w640-h454/20230920_230118.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The Society had comissioned a special anniversay limited edition van from Peco. Of course I had to get one, and by the time the show opened on the Saturday morning it was out of the box and running on Slugworth, where it looked at home. In fact it ran around Slugworth pretty much all day so I estimate it must have covered around 2 real miles or so already. </p><p>The 50th celebrations were great fun, well organised, and memorable. Roll on 60 years...?</p>Michael Campbellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09740155011466713811noreply@blogger.com0