It should have been just a simple conversion…

A year ago when Rapido released their OAA wagons on N I had a set and was very impressed especially with the floor and underfloor…

I remembered a metal casting for weight with a plastic chassis frame and then separate sides glued to this - however memory is a mistress whom you cannot trust. Yes, lovely detail but no, frames and sides are one piece! That somewhat complicated this conversion and has left the result less pleasing than I’d hoped.

The plan was to create a chassis for my N Gauge Society (ex TPM) Russell container. Initial thoughts were a Chivers OCA kit to use as a basis but I’d have needed to scratch build the frame and brake detail. Those are £10 each, plus postage, plus wheels. The price quickly ramps up - so three would have been around £40. Rails are selling off the remaining Rapido sets for £53. Both types require a fair amount of work but my ‘memory’ led me to believe the Rapido would be a time saver.

Alas, it wasn’t to be - and cutting down the body was fraught with anxiety, but with a confident and bold approach the razor saw made short work of the task and a sanding block smoothed off what was left. The kit ‘mounting’ pads were glued to the top of the frames and things carefully reassembled. A pleasant distraction, and real modelling albeit with a few shortcuts. A distinctive if slightly incorrect chassis for an unusual wagon. I’m left with a pair of the OAA - so I have a decision to make - keep / convert / sell them. That can wait until this one is finished though, and for now I don’t regret the adventure.

I am enjoying this gentle exploration of what can be made from what is available. The craft is practiced, the result is mindful. Where could this lead you? Until next time, more soon…

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