Canopus in 009: First prototype complete...
Canopus is another project that has suffered with the etch supply issues via Narrow Planet, but with big batch of parts arriving recently I've been able to finish this first prototype build...
It shows real promise, capturing the look of the prototype very nicely despite a few small liberties with the position of the cylinders. The etched parts fit perfectly, and the smokebox, chimney and saddle tank will be heading off for white-metal casting now.
A few adjustments are needed to the 3D printed cross-heads to aid assembly, and I need to adjust the connecting rod length and cross head piston length so ensure they work as intended, but everything moves and there is just enough clearance, so I'm happy to proceed to the final prototype stage, this means the kit is then effectively assembled and photographed for the instructions and promotional material. Mind, with the re-design and lead time on casting, that will probably be a few more weeks, fingers crossed with a prevailing wind we might just make Christmas for release. This is Narrow Planet's 10th year in business so it would be nice to celebrate this with the kit release, but no one expected the events we've seen this year so if it's delayed to make sure it's right, then that's what will happen.
I'm looking forward to giving a proper working prototype a full workout on East Works before long! In the meantime, more soon...
Looks great James...
ReplyDeleteOne thing I'd recommend is making the crossheads from 3D printed stainless steel instead of 3D printed resin. I-Materialise offers this option, and for what it is, especially for small parts, the price is reasonable. It's also advantageous to make up frets of these parts for more than one locomotive at a time.
I recently had some crossheads printed for HOn30 locomotives, the fret contained enough crosseheads for four locomotives and cost about $14US each. Which is (IMO) a small price to pay for the durability advantage that SS offers over the resin.
Great work! Love to see stuff like this. Now if only the GraFar 08's were easier to source, it'd be great.