As work on the Gp van continues, I have had to take a break away from it simply as I was losing the will to live. The thought of the hundreds of bolt heads still to be applied is demoralising enough to prevent me doing any modelling at all, so I have had to take a brief diversion.

Designed in 1942 these large open-standard two-axle freight wagons were designed to fill the general purpose role previously occupied by the older wagons of various vintages and designs. The original design of the Op wagon was for it to be over 8m long with a 5m wheelbase and a floor capacity 17.6 m2, rated at 14 tons. The wagons were equipped with air brake and load gear all mounted to a welded underframe structure and therefore differed significantly from the traditional wagons designs of old. A unique feature of these wagons in comparison to their UK counterparts is the ability for the side and end panels to fold flat onto the load bed of the wagon.

Due to their general purpose design these wagons saw much use on a wide variety of traffic. Employed on duties including transportation of hardwood logs and coal later on in life following conversion saw them being fitted with rubber mats and employed on ore duties as a tipler wagons. This conversion saw modification to the side and end panels and cutting of the side stanchions.

Equiped with a drawing of an Op wagon and a few photos (which are proving hard to find) I have set about making a start on building a wagon…well two in fact. Using plasticard I have prepared enough material for two wagons. The first will be “ex works†and will have ends and sides in the raised position although showing signs of use, whilst the second will be a more work worn example with damage and the side panels in the lowered position on the wagon bed.

To get started here is a picture of the work so far…

Meanwhile...!

Opel Blitz Nears Completion…Nearly!

The Opel Blitz nears completion. I say “nears completion†(again!) as I am beginning to wonder if I’m ever going to finish this kit. Started some 5 months ago all that is holding me up is finding suitable period “Swedish style†letters and numbers decals for the front and rear number plates.

Small detail such as the door handles, bonnet mascot and wing mirror have now been added and the truck is now packed away until I can find some suitable decals!