From flat to 3D...

In just four hours modelling time the flat pack Worsley Works kit has become a diesel...

It's gone together really easily actually, and I am pleased with the result. It's not perfect, but it's close enough and what a well proportioned, detailed and designed kit - it basically just falls together. You don't need instructions when something is as self explanatory as this!

I always use 145degC low melt solder - it means you don't have to worry about damaging components from excessive heat with the usual 180degC stuff - plus with a good flux (I use Carr's green) you get really well flowing neat joints. I just have a basic Antex 25W iron - and find it fine for most work, with ample heating capacity. On top of that I have a selection of needle files and now a fibreglass pencil as well. Just goes to show you don't need expensive complex equipment to work in brass...

The basic order of construction was chassis first, then the bonnet was folded up and the end soldered in. This was then soldered to the cab front. Front buffer beam next, before adding the bonnet assembly to the chassis. Then just building up the cab sides and finally the cab rear. It's gone together fairly square, although I added the grill to the bonnet front before it was fitted to the bonnet sides which means it's slightly skewed and off centre. I used solder to fill any gaps and tidied this up as best as I can with a file and glass fibre pencil.

Still got some more brass bits to add - steps, pilots at both ends and rear window shields - then I'll drill out all the handrail holes and start on the detailing - most of which will be in plasticard. The roof goes on last as there is no access from underneath.

The Kato chassis will be a push fit I think - and I will just make up some plasticard spacers to get it to ride at the correct height.

Finally a shot to show comparative size to the Wasp - it's nearly as wide, and quite a bit longer - so both of these are quite big models in 009.