Friday Update: Eleven Three Twenty-two…

It's been a great week in the workshop, solid progress on the first pair of Ruston LB as well as time for meeting a few fellow modellers in the local area, mixed in with some smaller scale weathering...

If you trace the gestation of this project back to the beginning things started last summer when I began designing the 3D CAD for the axle boxes. It is wonderful to see these models taking shape, and enjoying the benefits of well designed parts that really accelerate the scratch building process. These models are hand made, but through CAD I'm able to ensure certain elements are consistent and easy to make as detailed as possible without costing the earth. Making the most of 2D and 3D CAD to master items for laser cutting, etching and 3D printing. These pair are also fitted with digital sound, i.e. a DCC decoder is driven from the RC receiver and controls the motor performance and the sound resulting in an incredibly controllable and realistic driving experience. I'll film a short video for YouTube next week when these are 'in primer' - there are a few things to add to finish them off later today.

I've also been working on a Bachmann 64xx converting it to a 74xx. This involves taking the angle off the front and rear of the cab, and altering the joint between bunker and cab rear face. I also have replaced the tank side handrail with a plain loop, and reused the handrail on the footplate above the step. This better represents the prototype. The model has also had a first wash applied, and is waiting on the etched number plates from Custom Nameplate Studio before the next stage of weathering can be completed. Looking promising though, getting a variation in tone on a black model can be a real challenge, this is moving in the right direction.

This week I've also been meeting modellers in the area and striking up new friendships in this post Covid world. To that end, a visit to see Steve a little north of where I am here, and his O scale layout. This is very much a work in progress but is fully operational and signalled. His interest lies in realistic operation to timetable so it will be fascinating to learn about another aspect of the hobby that until now I have ignored. I don't see myself adopting this fro my own modelling, but the challenge excites me and the chance to try something new shouldn't be ignored. I have also met up with fellow narrow gauge modeller George, who is just under an hour south of me, and hope to go and visit John near Carnaerfon next week. We shall see where these new acquaintances and friendships take me, but it's exciting to meet new modellers and share their interests, experience and passions for the hobby.

This weekend should bring some time work up the Combe Norton scheme further, and perhaps ready myself for a proper introduction on the blog! I'd also like to begin painting the BC Rail CRS20 and carry on terra-forming on Beaverbrook - however we shall see how the time pans out. Enjoy your weekends whatever railway related interest you can squeeze in - until next time, more soon...