Motor Rail 14T in OO…

The Motor Rail 14T prototype was a small shunting locomotive that usually was powered by a 60hp engine and designed to rival the Ruston 48DS. Funny then, that the new Planet Industrials kit actually uses the Hornby chassis of that prototype...

It's designed as a 'beginners kit' and combines our usual 3D printed core with etched nickel silver overlays. The Hornby chassis simple screws into place, and the model is finished off with 3 link couplings (or NEM, if you leave off the etched nickel silver buffer beam overlays) and buffers.

The model's bonnet is largely empty, so on the prototype I've packed it full of lead which has usefully increased it's tractive effort. I was pleased to find it runs very nicey as a result, and if combined with the Hornby 'match wagon' you still get good pick up. Alternately the space would allow easy fitting of sound and stay alive, or even dead rail battery radio control?

Whilst 'beginner' in design, hopefully the detail will also satisfy the model accomplished modeller. Only limited details (door handles and handrails) lift the body, but a top mounted exhaust or headlights could be added to the bonnet (on the prototype the exhaust could be routed up or down, so I've assumed down on the kit). I've used RT Models 24" buffers (now also available from Light Railway Stores) but the 18" buffers in Robert's range would also fit, and I've seen examples of the prototype with both sizes.

The etched nickel silver cab does mean flush glazing is possible, and a driver wouldn't go amiss with the large cab windows (although I haven't fitted one). Finishing is relatively easy with it's smooth sides. I masked and painted the buffer beam wasp stripes before fitting the buffers, and you can customise the model with transfers from the Planet Industrials range at Light Railway Stores.

To showcase the 'ease' in building the kit I've also put together an instructional video, which I hope shows that the kit is well within most modellers skill set. Steve and I hope to have this available in the next few weeks, so keep your eyes peeled on the Planet Industrials newsletter and the Light Railway Stores webshop.

The prototype is so cute and diminutive I'm sure it will find a spot on many modellers layouts. Whether you're an industrial modeller or not, these low height small size locomotives could find a home on a private siding, gas works, coal distribution yard or dock side quay.

I look forward to introducing some new modellers to the joys of kit building, and seeing the results shared on our Facebook page and the forums. Until next time, more soon...