Tank you very much…

The chemical tank wagon is a vastly under-represented prototype in model railways. Even in larger scales there are but a handful of suitable vehicles - although the Rainbow/Revolution example is notable in recent times, alas, in N we are limited to some TTA reliveries and the N Gauge Society kit…

This is my fourth version built from the kit - this time an ex- ICI example rebuilt for sulphuric acid traffic. These were seen across the Speedlink network serving smaller chemical distributors from the larger plants. There are several books that show the various versions and their evolution - a Railway Archive issue is my go-to alongside Paul’s wonderful website. 

I believe Will at Coventry Railworks is considering offering another variant of his 15ft wheelbase ‘Peco’ chassis with Bruninghaus springs - but for now, I had to modify one to include this distinctive arrangement. The N gauge Society tank was assembled, filled and smoothed and then mounted a tiny bit higher than usual and the distinctive framing fillet added in thin styrene between the tank and edge of the wagon chassis. It’s not a perfect representation but captures the character of this particular variant. The transfer sheet offered up all I required over a gloss blue tank, and weathering, as usual from photographs, toned things down nicely.

This, as I mentioned is the fourth variant I’ve built using the tank kit. We started with the United Molasses rebuilds (with heating tubes) on a Farish TTA chassis, then an Albright Wilson phosphoric acid tank on a Coventry Railworks pedastal chassis, then an ICI branded caustic soda on the Coventry Railworks on parabolic springs and finally this new Tiger sulphuric acid tank. All distinctive prototypes for sure, and models that would be a great deal more difficult without the N Gauge Society. 

I suppose, beyond the ‘what’ and ‘how’ is the ‘why’… we’ve explored my thoughts on my interest in ‘Speedlink’ freight, a time in my life without the challenges and demands we face as adults - alongside the childlike excitement at colourful wagons and locomotives. Sitting with each of these models, working with familiar tools and comfortable methods is also a way of meditating, to clear my mind somewhat and find some peace through craft, creation. The benefit, over say, yoga for example is I have a product I can then play with and enjoy afterwards too, I love model railways. Until next time, more soon…

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