Jump to content
 
  • entries
    400
  • comments
    930
  • views
    288,596

Airfix 16 ton minerals - getting the brakes right!

Fen End Pit

Entry posted by Fen End Pit

1,228 views

 Share

Reading Geoff Kent's 'The 4mm Wagon - part 1' gives the answer to the question on the Airfix brakes.

 

The kit provides two mouldings, only one of which is required, and two identical brake handles, the one on the same side as the brakes should be fitted with a Morton clutch.

 

So, I've removed the brakes from one side and cut the brake handles off the V hanger on the other. pushing it slightly upwards and used a piece of rod to represent the end brake rod and the Morton clutch. At the same time I've also removed the rectangular area around one side of the V hanger which was presumably only there for strength. I've also removed the pips from the brake handle guide and drilled a number of holes instead. Hope you think these are worthwhile improvements.

 

blogentry-7212-072335200 1291755684_thumb.jpg

 

David

  • Like 1
 Share

4 Comments

Recommended Comments

Pennine MC

Didnt see the original query David, but I can confirm that the brake layout is correct now - the mods you've made to the brakegear mouldings are pretty much what I settled on several years ago. Another way to improve the safety straps BTW is to cut 'em right off and replace with bent-up staples

Link to comment
  • RMweb Gold
Captain Kernow
  • RMweb Gold

I agree with Ian, these are definitely worthwhile improvements. I often use a bit of Eileens brass strip of the correct width to form new safety straps, and solder a bit of brass rod on the top rear, which is then glued into a hole drilled in the solebar, which should give it a bit more strength.

 

You could go further, of course, and substitute etched brake gear etc., but this is a personal choice and what you've done will certainly improve things, and for 'layout wagons', they'll look fine when painted and weathered up, no doubt. :)

Link to comment
halfwit

Definitely worthwhile. I'm planning on doing something similar to some Airfix 16 tonners that I have stashed away.

 

Paul.

Link to comment

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...