I was never interested in Hatchettes expensive offering that looks too small for a working model. So, being the tight fisted old modelling git that I am I came across a large Sagami motor and later a `Home of O Gauge` 36.1 ratio fold up gear box on ebay some time back £30 max.

The motor is about 1.5mm narrower than those cylindrical chassis spacers so I will have to modify the axle box detailing on my chosen driven axle.

Today I built it up and ran the gearing in...................................... should do the trick.................

Comparison with an ABC Maxon motor and reduction gearing in a Dave Andrews Castle chassis I`ve built.

The kit construction will be 90% soldered with the exception of very small `whitemetal/mazak` details cab etc and those parts to be attached to the plastic tender body.
So this means removal of body casting factory finish paint for which I found Polycell advanced paint stripper the strongest and most effective.

And this is all you need to strip the varnish off the etches (1 hour dipping max) using good old Wilkos paint and varnish stripper, plus a brush, water and wire wool.

The basic frames are completed and this evening I plan to fit the bearings, wheels , motor and coupling rods