The many uses of a Bachmann O4 2-8-0...... In this instance, a Thompson rebuild to class O4/8
Going back to when Bachmann announced their O4, I wondered how long it would be before we would either see an offering made by Bachmann themselves or indeed an enterprising modeller in the form of one or other of the rebuilt versions. The latter appeared in the form of Graeme King over on LNER forum, both http://www.lner.info...t2443s375.html and http://www.lner.info...-t2141s45.html. Scroll down to see the relevant posts of course.
Not so long ago, a chance discussion was had between myself and Tom Foster about whether it would be worth doing and I somehow agreed - I try not to turn work down these days. Inspired by Graeme's thread and being in the possession of the remains of a B1 (the chassis had long self-destructed), I set to work - the O4 was provided for the work, of course! Graeme supplied me with resin castings for the replacement dome and rear sandboxes too, which do make a difference. The chimney is an Alan Gibson J39 lost-wax brass casting, which is just that bit taller than the original B1 version. The main handrail is 0.45mm brass wire fitted through Gibson long handrail knobs. A large slug of lead in the boiler makes the model tip the scales at 325g. Capable of hauling almost anything sensible I care to throw at it.
The following pair of images show the finished model prior to glazing and light weathering.
Now, here's something I hadn't realised was wrong with the Bachmann reversing rod, which I now see is around 4ft underlength. The scratch-built brass replacement is the correct length and has the lever in the right place at the top of the curve of the main splasher.
I have finished the model as 63653 of Frodingham (36C) shed with my usual combination of HMRS cabside numerals and Modelmaster smokebox numberplate+shedplate.
Cheers for now!
- 5
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