Colwyn Bay Scenic Structures

A sleeper and "I" section fence for the rear of the coal yard, which is almost 3 feet long.

The green shed, still requiring a green wash and window frames.


The layers are slowly being built up on the main goods shed.

The pictures above are pretty much self explanatory, just a quick refresh to show the overall progress of the project.

3-way Asymmetric Turnout

My previous RH turnout along side the new 3-way.

A mock up to test the final track position.

The wheels of progress continue to turn on Colwyn Bay. Track work is ready to be glued into it's final place, Tortoise motors have been purchased and a shiny new DCC system is on it's way. New plans for a fiddle yard have been drawn up and scenics are just over the horizon.

On the Right Track

RH A6 Turnout from Easitrac Components

After another career move, the dust has once again settled and progress continues. I have finally started work on my turnouts, I can not praise these products highly enough! The results are consistent and crisp, thanks to some very clever jigs provided. Future updates will be along shortly as the 3 way point progresses.

1/120 21T Mineral Wagons

The new 21T minteral from Stephen Harris

As a change from layout building, I've broke out the soldering supplies and produced the above. Now available through the advert in the current Association Magazine. I have decided to build the 1/120 diagram version with the self adjusting brake set up.

As with the 16T variation of this kit, all parts fall into place and a single kit can be assembled in an evening or two. Everything is included within in the kit, with the exception of wheels, bearings, buffers and .33 wire.

While stocks last etc.

A Long Over Due Update

Card Formers Used in Trial

Where has the time gone? I've been putting off an update until I had completed another section, I have started a few bits and pieces though. Recently I have been; working away on my rake of TTAs, working on the goods shed, experimenting with track, making the first coal bagging hopper and designing etches.

A Test Point Constructed with Etched Chairs

On the track front there has been a lot going on, mostly with tests for the 3 way point nearest the fiddle yard. Mock ups have been made using PCB sleepers and bullhead rail and all seem to work in concept. The image above shows a trial with etched chair plates, this is a great improvement and work has been put on hold until Easitrac points are available and that option also tried.

The Coal Bagging Hopper

Constructed from 5thou plasticard and mircostrip, the hopper has come out well. Etches are being drawn up to create another seven required for the layout.

Colwyn Bay Goods Shed

As can be seen above, the goods shed is taking shape and etches have been drawn up for windows and doors. The roof has been started using ration sheets, but I'm not too happy with the overall effect.

All aboard

A quick shot of the completed baseboard

Well, the first major step has been taken. The top is 9mm birch ply and a double wall 12mm frame around this (more infomation on this when I get to point motors and electrics). Next to a a few scenic items, there is little else to report. The next step is track and that 3 way point...

Tea? Tea, aye...

The new Farish TTA with chassis modifications.

As stated at the beginning of this blog, I am a fan of the new TTA with the exception of the strange appearance of the W-irons. So, here is a test show of the proposed solution.

You will need;

2mm Association
2-482 5'0" 13 leaf spring with L.H. & roller bearing axle box
2-351 Wagon chassis etch - 12' 0" w/b 21'0" long for Parkside kits
Plus wheels, top hats etc.

TPM
1823 Alternative catwalk for Peco 45t tank (Different etch shown)

You will have to;

- Dismantle the entire wagon.
- Discard catwalk, coupling pockets and axles.
- Remove chassis details, rigging/brake shoes (keep safe).
- Widen slots where brakes once sat, to accept W irons. Using a flat file, file towards the outside of the wagon.
- Machine off W irons, leaving the leaf hangers
- W irons are cut from the etched chassis. Fit flush with top of sole bar, fill/ sand.
- Refit brake shoes and rigging.
- Cut leaf hangers from white metal castings, glue to new W irons.
- Fit catwalk as per instructions.

... easy, he says. I have tried fitting the springs in two ways, what's your opinion? Left or Right?