Planet Industrials: Hibberd with front steps...

When I first designed the Hibberd for the fledgling 'Planet Industrials' last year I had in mind the opportunity for other versions being quite easy to produce using the same basic components...

During research I started to see the biggest difference being whether or not front steps were fitted, and this led to some pondering on what would need changing on the 3D design.

Further, it became apparent that the cab was often different on the front step variants - and so even as the first kit was released at Warley last year I had already started work on the concept of this variant. The basic 3D core has been adjusted to incorporate the front step, and an additional etch is included for the different footplates and bottom step.

The etch also includes parts for a different cab style, with the continuous style of window, so this kit attracts a slightly higher price, but does give two cab options. We are planning on stocking the cab etch as an extra part for those wanting to add this variant without cab steps. 

This prototype showed the front steps weren't quite recessed enough, so the production prints have a deeper step (by about 1mm). This example has also been finished with Kadee couplings, to demonstrate the NEM mounts - as well as some of the Planet Industrials transfers (namely PIL-002 and PIL-004). The design of the multi-layer buffer beam etches means that despite fitting Kadees it is possible to still include a coupling hook, I've used a Smiths example here, along with Gibson industrial buffers.

The faded orange livery shows how this small industrial can look at home in both a steam era and more modern setting. This will probably be a display model, so I'm sure you'll see it on the stand at exhibitions later this year. More soon...