Planet Industrials: Ruston 165DE take two...

The first trial of the 3D and 2D parts for the forthcoming Planet Industrials Ruston 165DE kit were a great success, neat fit and no real adjustments needed...

However, I had mis-measured the chassis, and it was off centre and set too far under the cab. This looked ok from a 3/4 view, but side on, the model looked wrong - so I adjusted the 3D printed core, and tweaked a few little things I'd missed (like the foot step on the front of the bonnet) and re-ordered, along with a slightly revised front grill. I've now assembled the second prototype of both the print and etch and success, it's pretty much there - just the NEM mount to add to the front of the chassis print and it will be ready for production.

The model is a nice progression from the Planet, for those that feel they can tackle a more complicated kit. There are more metal parts to form in terms of grab irons etc, and the modification to the Hornby chassis to remove the cylinders isn't difficult, but does perhaps require a sharp intake of breath and some courage (although replacement wheels are available as spares should the worst happen).

I will be priming and painting the model in the coming week - and I'm currently torn on livery. Part of me wants more of a work horse with a faded green body and wasp striped buffers - the other part wonders about a lined maroon with wasp striped buffers? We'll see what happens once the primer is dry. For now, the release is likely to be in the new year once we've sourced the parts, so perhaps save some of your Christmas money for a kit to help with the January blues! Until next time, more soon...