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?

... carry on.

The start of the goods shed

I'm glad that's over and done with! I've now settled into my new place and the modelling gear has come out. Having put off the main structure I decided to jump straight in before I cover the work area in wagon kits again.

I've decided to model the main shell from 30thou plasticard and covering with brick embossed plastic sheets. I was tempted to go the paper route but the complex brick work on the main shed made me go with what I know best. Etched window frames from the Ratio range will be used.

No real progress has been made, the Templot print out is back on the dining table and little card structures are popping up to give a sense of scale. Hopefully I can then decide on baseboard dimensions.

ON HOLD

Stephen Harris 16T kits

The title says it all. Due to a change in career, I'm also moving house. As we all know this does tend to eat into modelling time. For now I will leave you with a quick shot of a rake of 16T minerals I have been building for the layout. Designed and sold by Stephen Harris, these have to be the most straight forward etched kit money can buy. Each kit can be made to the above stage in one evenings work. Fantastic bit of etching.

Cut n' Shut Outcome

Motor fitted, wiring to complete.

Finally, I have dug deep and brought that digital camera I've needed for the last 4 years. Which means I can start pestering you all with images of half finished models again.


On the class 25 front there is progress, the motor is in and runs... not great but tweaks and running in is still needed. Work carried out as described before, the motor is supported on it's on armature and is stopped from rotating by a snug fitment in the milled slot within the plastic chassis moulding.