Of goyles and peds - 31/4 in N (part 2)…

What you’re looking at here is not a mistake. Paxton Road is (predominantly) inspired by Speedlink traffic in Scotland - so why, a 31?

In part 1 I introduced this model. Let’s pause though and ponder, this is not just ‘why a 31?’ but why again? Fourth time lucky? Perhaps the boomerang nature of my relationship with the models suggests a deeper connection, something more than skin deep. The ‘rats’ of my childhood perhaps? Or is it more straight forward? They’re characterful prototypes and wonderful models?

They certainly respond well to some detail and weathering! This model spent the first few years of its life in Bachmann’s warehouse and Kernow’s shop as Intercity liveried Jerome K Jerome… that lasted less than an hour in my possession. I had selected 31467 as my muse - in 93 she gained the high intensity headlight and matched the donor models details. More, she lasted in blue until the end of the 90s. Checking my notes I didn’t see her but did see similar 31/4s in blue in the period. The paint removed, the naked shell could then be appraised for mould lines and considerations for revised or improved detail - in this case the nose handrails and washer guards. Sheep dipped in ‘faded’ blue (my supplies are running low these days) and dowsed in suitable Fox decals she headed for weathering.

I love the way these old diesels decay. Their panelled bodies, tied together with visible rivets and liberally covered in louvres and vents - they live and breathe like a steam locomotive - the outside becoming a story that tells us what is happening inside… rust? yes, dirt? yet, oil? yes… but not everywhere. Study photographs, understand the layout of equipment inside and you’ll find signs and tell-tales of that activity on the bodywork. Creating these miniatures is not copying, nor just artistic flourishes - it’s my engineering background, understanding the machine and how it lives, woven with traditional model making craft skills that help breathe life into their finish. Life and soul.

The finished model barely 6 inches long glides along Paxton Road. I’m at peace, I love it. She is not Scottish but she is of my Chester… she is useful, on a chemical train on Barrow (should James and I ever build it) and Denton Road too, perhaps just working a club train from Blackpool? 

This is N gauge.

A world of characterful modelling in a small space awaits you, come and join me! 

Until next time, more soon…

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