Day 66: next project chassis choices

Entry posted by TurboSnail May 28, 2020

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Did a 15 hour day at work yesterday, so not much modelling got done. Instead, a decision needs to be made! I've been trying to get away from entirely 3D printed chassis for a few of my locos, there are other materials better suited to making frames that I'd like to get into. I have a few different designs already done, but I've also got a couple of old projects that need the chassis' redoing as I'd like to have them finished and able to run...

So, which of these locos should I finalise first? We have the Furness Sharp Stewart, and the AEC Shunter. Read on for the explanation below...

The Sharp did run, and very well at that, until it recently developed an issue with the material warping over time. This could be fixed with some adjustment, but given it took a lot of adjustment to get it running in the first place, I'm inclined to make another chassis that is easier to set up and more robust. I'd like to keep the High Level gearbox though, that works brilliantly with the high-revving motor, so it was really smooth before it developed a tight spot.

Secondly, the AEC shunter. This uses a 4-wheel drive system that I'd like to keep the concept of - however, the 3D printed gears are rubbish (used out of necessity rather than choice), and I'd like to add a flywheel. This should be a simpler project as I'd essentially just be replacing the main chassis block with something a bit more sturdy.