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bcnPete

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  1. bcnPete

    Wenford debut - Uckfield MRC show

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Afternoon all,
     
    Been quiet here of late as I tried to get Wenford Dries ready for it’s debut at the (always) excellent Uckfield MRC 2 day show.
     
    Detail had been added including handrails to some of the bays (yep they were pretty twisted bits of metal sagging in places) signage to the doors (not a typo, that is what the sign said for Lorries 🙄) moss to roofs, some shunters ( huge thanks to Mark B 46444) for painting these Modelu figures, the additional shed lean to and finally some white to the buildings and track areas. 
     
    Also, presentation included a ply track plan showing area modelled, iPad installation showing prototype photos of area modelled and fire retardant black drapes to the front…although they are not as opaque as I would have liked, looking like something from an Ann Summers catalogue 😳
     
    Trust me when I say I had not applied any white to the model until about 3pm, two hours prior to leaving to set up Friday evening 🫣 I had been putting it off and finally tried Talc (didn’t take to card/plastic) White weathering powder (again didn’t adhere) so resorted to good old fashioned dry brushing with white acrylic paint. Was hoping to not overcook it and just give the flavour.
     
    Set up the layout Friday night and did a quick test run. Next morning all was ready for the 10am kick off. My thanks to Andy Stroud (Oldshaw, Blueball Summit) for making the trip to help out and give some lunch cover. Likewise to the UMRC member who also did so on Sunday (sorry, we never swapped names!) 
     
    The layout ran smoothly and I have to say the only real problems encountered we’re getting used to 3 link couplings. Some work first time, some take twenty attempts! 
     
    I received some very nice comments all weekend and hopefully it demonstrated that a small but interesting 7mm micro can be undertaken. The 08 did most of the weekend as per the prototype however the 37 did stretch it’s legs a few times and pulled over a few extra people who heard the unmistakable sound of a tractor!
     
    A very enjoyable weekend and thanks to Adrian and his team who looked after us so well. 
     
    A few pics of the layout…
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    There was talk of a possible show invite to Camborne although I understand train’s don’t stop there 😅

    A very enjoyable weekend and I do like the big stuff!
     
    As always, comments welcome…
     
    Pete
     
  2. bcnPete

    Back on track…

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all,
     
    4 years on from my first post on this, the project got delayed due to various family issues however having got Wenford Dries to where I wanted it to be (bar tweaking and some minor additions) it was time to resurrect this project. After all, we all need a new project now those Winter nights are coming to us.
     
    The mock up model from the first post had since been binned and the 2mmFS 60th show been and gone however I always liked this project and had even made the first turnout for it some time ago. 
     
    Rather than two clip on Fiddleyards I decided it should fit on my preferred IKEA Lack shelves namely the 1100mm x 260mm ones. Trains can be relatively short however due to limited storage I made the decision to use some Fiddle stick type cassettes which can protrude from the baseboards when the layout is in use. 
     
    The relative drawing was made in CAD and the 3mm ply carcass was laser cut at the studio incorporating two slots at each end as long as my now usual viewing slot to the Fiddleyards which prove to be popular at shows. Also, space has been allocated for an iPad to show prototypical photos as this was also well received at the Uckfield show last weekend. Important when you are trying to capture an extract of something as my usual layout approach is.
     
    This weekend saw a big push on the track work. Most of it will be inset in a concrete apron so this has been made in copper sleepers and rail from the Association with the front track in Easitrac.
     
    To build the track I printed out a crude Google Earth type image onto which I scaled to fit the scenic section and my baseboard (driven by the size set out by the Association for the challenge layouts) This print out was attached to a sheet of 3mm ply and then a sheet of Perspex from the model shop overlaid so I could follow the track plan. 
     
    Sleepers were glued in place with Pritt stick and the track laid using the gauges. Have never made a curved turnout or a ‘Y’ turnout before so new challenges! At close of play today, a wagon runs through ok in all directions but no doubt there will be some tweaks which is one of the nice things use copper sleepers and an iron.
     
    The 3mm fascia’s were assembled in the evenings last week and I left a 5mm slot at the back so I could slide the track base in and out until am happy with it. I may even spray and ballast it before final positioning of it. Need to think about droppers and sparks before I do that…plenty to ponder and sketch on my way to work.
     
    Lighting will be in the concealed fascia and all being well the layout can fit on the same sub base and trestles as Kyle…meaning it should fit in my car.
     
    Here’s a few progress pics and I dropped on a 37 and a few CDA’s to help give it some scale.
     
    Starting with the original card mock up to test the idea…have narrowed the proscenium arch since.
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    From 2mmFS to 7mm to 2mmFS - certainly testing my eyesight and patience again 🙃
     
    As always, comments welcome,
     
    Pete
     
     
  3. bcnPete

    Kyle - St Neots

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all,
     
    Kyle was invited to the one day St Neots show yesterday. Jackie and I had been trying to find a date when there were no clashes after a few email exchanges and 2023 was when the planets aligned!
     
    Set up the layout Friday night to test run and very glad I did as two roads in the FY were dead - turned out to be dry joints after some detective work. Soldering iron administered with the England footie game on in the background 🫣
     
    Once sorted, car loaded that night for a 06:00am start. Good trip and arrived just after set up doors open time. Staff were on hand to manage deliveries and even helped me unload which was very kind.
     
    Layout behaved itself most of the day…aside from a few multi tasking incidents of talking to the audience once driving trains 😵‍💫 😅 Some nice conversations with people and received some very nice comments on the layout - a lot regarding the size…thought it would be bigger than this! That’s testament to Chris Nevard’s photography 👌🏼
     
    A big thanks to Mark Branson (46444) for driving down from Leeds to lend a hand. Was able to grab lunch, comfort breaks and quick look around the show. Mark quickly grasped how to run the layout although questioned his varifocal glasses on any future 2mm projects
     
     Thanks again to the St Neot’s team for their hospitality, including helping me load the car and tell me where EV charging points were located.
     
    Show closed at 16:30pm, loaded and on the road 25 minutes later and home around 7pm - A very enjoyable day out.
     
    Attached is a pic I took of the layout with my camera phone that I was pleased with as well as the guest operator in action! 
     

     

     
    Right, 7mm mode now as I try to complete works on Wenford Dries as it makes it’s show debut at Uckfield next weekend…
     
    Thanks,
     
    Pete
  4. bcnPete

    Back to my roots...

    By bcnPete,

    Afternoon all,
     
    Following the recent post and demise of my Meeth 2mmFS DJLC entry I promised to share my alternative proposal. Part of the decline of Meeth was that it had no real layout future beyond the competition - more time should have been spent thinking this through long game
     
    One idea I have previously toyed with in BCN, even in 7mm scale was a model of Treviscoe clay dries. The thing that killed off the 7mm one was the thought that I would want to purchase a class 37....so 7mm toe dipping on a budget was never going to happen
     
    Despite my excursion into Scottish railways (which I have thoroughly enjoyed) my real interest has always been in China clay so this seemed the natural choice (admittedly Meeth was also a China clay proposal) I have always been taken by the John Vaughan image of a class 37 edging past a dries building so it was time to revisit this but in 2mmFS.
     
    I was aware of a rather nice 4mm layout on the forum loosely based on the Trethosa/Treviscoe dries area so it was natural that I first message Kevin to see if he had any objections to my project.
     
    I outlined to Kevin that whilst his layout was inspired by the area my would be an extract of the prototype as per my usual preference albeit condensed as required to try and capture the flavour - I sent my track plan and Kevin graciously replied that he had no issues with it especially as mine was based on the prototype and was a different scale - he has even offered some photographic research help - top bloke
     
    So the idea is to create an extract of the area between the two sheds which are connected by a high level conveyer of some sort. The 600mm x 234mm (approx.) 2020 DJLC competition area was overlaid on a google earth type snapshot and the area to be modelled was drawn over crudely in CAD - no Templot this end am afraid...
     

    Outline sketch...plan and very very very loose elevation (for Mikkel)...  


    Crude CAD drawing...plan and elevation of fascia...

    Ditto but with overlay on google earth type image...
     
    This gave the following scenario which would have a FY each side. The idea is that trains can arrive, shunt wagons into the dries building and collect later on. Perhaps the odd passing freight too on the front line. The era would start early eighties so clay holds but could expand to include CDA’s and also Cargowagons (As found during Internet searches) I have a rake bought for a Moorswater and Mark (46444) weathered one superbly...and has offered to complete the rake.
     
    The next part of the process for me was to make a 1:1 mock up to test the idea with rolling stock. This would help gauge train lengths etc. The area was printed out at work full size and foamboard of varying thicknesses cut in preparation. This time I have decided to increase the front viewing window from my usual 200mm to 250mm...the jury is still out on this. The dries buildings have been guesstimated from pictures but I need to do more detailed drawings before they are built. The lighting has been integrated in the fascia with my usual methods and is a return to the IKEA strip lights I used in BCN. Am still pondering the Fiddle Yards but may use sliding perspex as per Kyle...how much of this will be on view is still being considered.
     
    Here is the mock up made last weekend and posed with various rolling stock to help me decide whether it’s worth pursuing. The main idea is to try and build it for May 2020 however (a) if it does not get finished it might be presented as a work in progress (b) it has a life beyond the competition in that it could be offered as an alternative to Kyle which will no doubt start to retract from exhibitions in the distant future.
     

    View from RH Fiddleyard...

    View from LH Fiddleyard...

    37 arrives in loop on CDA’s...

    Front end view...not sure whether to reduce down viewing portal...

    Wagons left for loading and departing...

    37 on Cargowaggons...this one was expertly weathered by Mark (46444)...

    Passing through with Cargowagons...that yellow is ouch! 

    The two circular structures will be the China clay vats (name escapes me!)
     
    This link to the Flickr photo sums up the area to be modelled quite nicely...but modern day...(not sure if image shows as I just added the link to it...Mods - I can delete if it’s a problem?)
     

     
    That’s where I am at with it. I am quite happy to return to a China clay layout as I have most of the stock from my Coombe Junction - Moorswater layout.
     
    I am off work this week for 1/2 term so may look to make some initial progress.
     
    As always, comments welcome!
     
    Pete
     
     
     
  5. bcnPete

    Kyle Railex 2023

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Just an update on the back of this weekend's superb RailEX 2023 in Aylesbury. Great show with nice mix of quality layouts and trade - honoured to be amongst the line up and to have made the front cover of the show guide.
     
    Thanks to Tim, David and all the team for hosting and looking after us all weekend.
     
    Thank you for all the kind comments and it was great to finally meet some people who have either been following my diatribes on here and/or saw the layout in Model Rail magazine.
     
    Think the size threw people when they saw it in person - hopefully they don't feel short changed!
     
    Next outing for Kyle is St Neots in October....meantime I need to turn my attention back to 7mm and get Wenford ready for the Uckfield show.
     
    More later...
     
    Pete


  6. bcnPete

    Show and tell…

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Afternoon all,
     
    Back last night from a wonderful day spent in Derby at the 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee event. Could only stay one day as had pre commitments back in London but am so glad I went. Great to see old faces, friends, meet new ones, chat 2mm stuff with people and of course have a curry and a few beers 😜
     
    So the final post on the diorama takes us up to the completion and it was down to the wire…that means planting trees in the hotel room at Derby Conference Centre the night before! 
     
    Whilst work continued on scenery in the evenings, at work I assembled the acrylic case in the studio workshop. This was then transported home in a foamboard storage box which would be used to carry the completed model. 
     

     

     
    Assembling box and protective layers…
     
    At home the track was reballasted using dry lay this time and dribbling on Kleer using a pipette - this worked very well and may be my new method. Foliage was added around the base of the piers to help bed them in the grass.
     
    The plinth was then faced in very thin wood veneer (maple I think) and this was also added as a 50mm band to the top of the case to conceal the lighting. 
     

     
    The original plan to reuse the IKEA lights was scrapped as I could only find one so instead a pack of 3 battery LED lights were found on Amazon which were remote controlled and also offered warm light or cool light. The lights were attached to a white card base to help reflect light back down. 
     

     
    The case was assembled and I left for Derby with a small box of tools and scenics. The trees could not be planted as could not find my drill bits in the box since moving apartment 🙃 Luckily I stumbled upon a Wickes 5 minutes from Derby Conference Centre hence the trees were drilled and planted in the hotel room.
     

     
    Here’s how the final diorama looked at the show…
     

     
    And a few photos back home…
     

     
     

     

     

     
    Have included options with the cool light and warm light as people were divided yesterday on what worked best.
     
    To summarise, it’s been great to get back and do some modelling and the event provided an excuse for me with a deadline. A few things on the to do list include; redo the balustrade etch (had to leave the small closure pieces out as they did not fit) clean the acrylic case with T-Cut and also fix the static grass. The latter being a product of the lid removal seems to attract the loose fibres to stick to the inside of the case.

    As always, comments welcome,
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
  7. bcnPete

    More progress…

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all,
     
    As the deadline approaches to the DJ 2mmFS weekend, I took the opportunity this weekend, aside from chores to make some more progress. First up the base was given a good coat of burnt umber acrylic paint to cover the white.


     

     
    This was followed by a first coat of ballast to the track which had been first sprayed brown in the model shop spray booth. Also the balustrade etch was given a coat of Matt black spray.
     

     
    After much deliberation on how to do the ballast I opted for the neat pva applied with a small paint brush and then ballast sprinkled as I worked in small sections. Am not sure why I moved away from my usual method of dry lay and soaking as I will need to go back and infill in quite a few places. For this I might dry lay and use some Kleer liquid I have.
     
    I then tackled the static grass. First coat used pva applied with a brush and 2mm fibres. It’s been a while since I did this as most of my layouts are urban grot so I had a quick refresher of a Woodland Scenics video. I had previously purchased a can of layering spray so this was then applied and then various mixes added including some burnt grass. I then followed up with 4.5mm and 6mm fibres, flattening some areas with the fingers as suggested on the video.
     

     

     
    In between this I also started to try to assemble the balustrade etch. This proved more tricky than first thought and it may need to be redone in the future with more emphasis on doubling up where the folds need to be.
     
    Also in tandem, thoughts on the lighting and acrylic case. The acrylic was drawn in CAD and the pieces cut ready for assembly tomorrow at work. The base will have a thin timber veneer applied as well as at the top which will screen the led lighting. Various options are being considered for this too. A few sketches of the thinking undertaken onthe train to work.
     

     

     
    Here’s the current state of play with some stock posed…
     

     
    Still lots to do including planting the trees which I previously removed and stored for reuse one day…wasn’t anticipating it would be on this diorama!
     
    As always, comments welcomed.
     
    Pete
     
     
     
  8. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    The blog title eludes to the inbound fast approaching, 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee event the weekend of 18/19th June in Derby - rescheduled from the original date due to COVID.
     
    I shall be visiting as a punter but wanted to bring something to the occasion as per the last one, the Golden Jubilee which was held in Oxford and I flew back from Barcelona for it. At that one I showed a small scale model of my proposed Coombe Junction - Moorswater layout which signalled my return to the hobby after a 20 year break and launched me from N to 2mmFS.
     
    Fast forward 10+ years and I have since returned from BCN to live in the UK again, the layout unfortunately had to be scrapped due to downsizing of space and also last month I moved apartments. Whilst sorting through boxes as part of the move I found two bubbled wrapped extracts from the original layout - part of the clay dries buildings and the slice of Moorswater viaduct. The viaduct was in three pieces, top and two legs and I had the idea during this BH break to perhaps reassemble the diorama that I built and entered into the RMWeb 2011 challenge competition. Looking back I was pleased to recall I had come 3rd overall, which I had forgotten.
     
    So my idea is to recreate the diorama again but this time finish it off with the handrail etches that Steve ‘Pixie’ Nicholls of this Parish kindly did for me all those years ago but arrived in the post due past the competition deadline. I am also going to redo and simplify the base and possibly make a perspex box enclosure…studio model shop permitting 😉 I have just under two weeks to complete this as I am travelling up to Derby the Friday afternoon before the event. I also need to contact John, the exhibition organiser and see if there is a spare place to display it…otherwise I will bring it and keep it in the car boot should anyone want to have a look at it!
     
    Here’s how the original one ended up back in 2011…
     

     

     

     
    The original featured a back scene, built in lighting fascia and also a cheeky stock box at the base 😜 For this model, the back scene and the fascia will be omitted. I was always unsure about what height the back scene should terminate at, as essentially this was a test piece for my CJM layout which had a backscene of approximately 300mm high. 
     
    So firstly the base was set out and again, this was based on the dimensions of an IKEA Lack shelf which many of my layouts use. 300mm wide x 260mm depth. I contemplated getting the mini IKEA Lack of those dims but the Perspex case idea scuppered that.
     

    Mapped out on the base…
     
    Next up is Pixies incredible fine etches…which will finally get used.
     

     
    The contours were then mapped out in card and foamboard off cuts and glued in with PVA glue. 
     

     

     
    Then this morning the base was covered with a layer of Sculptamold. Lovely stuff and easy to work with, even after 8+ years, as most of my layouts tend to be quite urban. 
     

     

     
    This will be left to dry for a few days before getting a light sand and a coating of burnt umber paint prior to grass application.
     
    That’s all for now folks - as always, comments welcomed…
     
    Pete
     
     

  9. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    Well I have to confess that since that 37 arrived much time has been spent running it rather than modelling  however just having this week off work (a ‘use it or lose it’ kinda thing) I decided to work on something I have been pondering for some time now.
     
    The layout was originally planned as a toe dipper into the senior scale…something to set up on the DRT and shuffle a few wagons about…the planning was all based around an 08 and the lengths of wagons used to set out the track layout. Whilst this has been realised and much fun had to date, I always liked the idea of taking it on the circuit to help demonstrate that 7mm can be done in a relatively small space (2.2m x 260mm) I realised that shuffling wagons at a show for a day (or two) may have its shortcomings so I set about thinking of extending the layout another board. Much thinking and sketching was done on which end it should be however what nailed it was the fact that the trains actually arrived and disappeared to the right hand end of Wenford (as viewed) so this made much more sense. 
     
    So an additional board (aka IKEA Lack shelf ) was duly purchased and I decided that I would use a single laser cut cassette (from Intentio) to serve both roads…again much pondering whether to have one or two run offs...more on that in a future update. So prior to finishing work last week I laser cut the fascia’s from 3mm ply to match and have introduced a cheeky viewing slot which seemed to work well on Kyle 2FS. The larger of the two openings may have a track plan whereas the hole to the top rhs is sized to allow an iPad screen to sit behind and display a slideshow of the prototype photos that layout is based on. 
     
    The other requirement was to how to support the boards as it was now 3.3m long and our DRT is only 2m  I have two Draper metal trestles that I use for Kyle at shows and I like the fact you can get the track level at around 1200mm above finished floor level…a lesson learnt from an early first exhibition of Kyle when it sat on a table provided for me at a show - wrong height, bad lighting etc…things out of your control that can make a big difference. As much as I love my IKEA Lack shelves since I first started using them in BCN 2008, the only downfall is all the wiring needs to be below…unless you want to try and thread it through the shelf amongst all the support material  This meant I needed to build some support boards which could sit atop the trestles so the wiring was not compromised. 
     
    Again, much thought was given about building something that could be used or extended for Kyle in 7mm which is planned as circa 4.3m long. Much sketching was done whilst commuting until I decided that I needed a solution for now as Kyle 7mm was planned to be my retirement layout…and that’s still a few years off yet  Originally I wanted a neat solution to incorporate the attachment of the black fabric base however that will be reconsidered as I adapted as I built it to get a stronger attachment for the front 75mm fascia. So essentially a 50 x 25mm sw framework with a 6mm MDF top was proposed which was hinged in the middle so folds to 1.65m. The wood was sourced Monday and work started Tuesday this week. I have no workshop or power provision to a remote garage so the MDF was cut to size and I cut the sw and glued and screwed it on the LR floor…mostly whilst my wife was out  Sketches here…
     

     

     

     
    The reason why I have included a small moat at the front (which will have a 10mm foam base) is am terrified at any stock falling off  It may not completely stop it but hopefully may help! 
     
    For the Fiddleyard board I first did a quick dry assembly with masking tape to check fit.
     

     

     

     
    Here is the completed sub structure sitting on the trestles and it will all be painted Matt black in due course. It works well with just the two trestles I currently have and this is helped by a 1000 x 30 x 5mm galvanised metal strap which straddles the two boards at the rear, secured with a few bolts as required.
     

     
    From the front and with the boards added it will look like this…the fascia will be painted grey to match the other boards. Another 900mm LED light from Screwfix extends the lighting into the Fiddleyard area - cables etc. will all be routed safely and discreetly. With the layout lights on we get this…
     

     
    I was pleased that it all sits very stable and it’s good to have the layout (albeit temporarily) at this height as was originally envisaged.
     
    So whilst it was all up I took the liberty of a quick play…No Fiddleyard as yet as that needs to be wired and am awaiting some 1m rail lengths from C+L…
     

     

     

     

     
    So a productive week off for me and now lots of smaller jobs to get on with which won’t require the full layout to be erected, before I can get back to the scenery and finishing the dries buildings.
     
    As always, comments welcomed,
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  10. bcnPete

    New kid in town…

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all,
     
    Hopefully a productive modelling bank holiday has been had this weekend.
     
    Just a quick update to share that my Heljan class 37 arrived last week and it’s been well worth the wait  Whilst in reality the loco would never been seen at Wenford it will only make an appearance at home or maybe the last 15 minutes at a show - Rule No.1 
     
    A big thanks to Lee Edmondson of Lee’s locos who not only managed to source the 37 late last year (when everywhere else it seemed sold out) but has also numbered it, detailed it, weathered it and installed the sound. The sound is LegomanBiffo and it certainly captures what I remember from these beasts!
     
    Lee has done an awesome job working from photos that I sent him and he was a real pleasure to deal with - really helpful too.
     
    So the back story is, that it’s actually 37412 primarily for my future 7mm Kyle layout however a few Large Logo class 37’s were transferred down to the West Country 37412 and 37175 being two of them. Hence the interloper…
     
    Much fun has been had shuffling the odd wagon around the sidings with it…no complaints from the neighbours yet…but blimey it’s loud 
     

    Photo - Lee Edmondson

    Photo - Lee Edmondson

    Photo - Lee Edmondson


    Unfortunately I can’t load the other photos I took as they keep coming in upside down 
     
    Here’s a link to a short video of the start up…hopefully this works!
     
    https://youtu.be/3sg3pjg4v1E
     
    Cheers,
     
    Pete
     
     
  11. bcnPete

    kyle - 7mm - update

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all,
     
    Just an update on the project as much thinking has been done of late - purchasing too…more on that later.
     
    A couple of firm decisions have been made with regard to track plan and boards.
     
    Firstly I have decided to model the other side of the station to my 2mmFS version as per the photo on the previous entry. A few reasons really, in that it will make a change to have a different viewpoint, there’s a slightly different track layout plus it’s not the side that people are most familiar with.
     
    Secondly I have decided to move away from using Lack shelves (as on Wenford) as the width is not sufficient and the water and platform would need to be added on. I did consider making them myself using the laser cutter in the studio however it’s a lot of ply and a bit different to making my own 2mm boards! So I have decided to use the excellent Tim Horn baseboards and have been having to and fro conversations with Tim of recent. Am hoping they will be lighter than using the Lack shelves too as am not getting any younger 
     
    Much mapping out of boards using stock has now confirmed that I will have two scenic boards at 1220mm in length and two fiddle yard boards at 950mm in length. The latter will accompany a 37 and three Mk I coaches, the parcels rakes and vans will be arranged accordingly within these limits. The 26 and 27 being shorter than the 37 means no issues here too…maybe allows a CCT tacked on the end of a rake  
     
    The extra length in the scenic boards will allow me to return and run the water at the end of the scene allowing an interesting end on view. I note that my hero Ian Futers did this with his Loch Lochy 7mm layout and again a slight departure from what I did on the 2FS version. Lessons learnt from 2FS Kyle on the runaround will also be addressed by the longer scenic boards as it will allow 3 coaches to be set back and a split traverser arrangement along the board joints. This will allow me to avoid lifting and turning the locos as I have to do on 2FS Kyle (that is partly due to couplings one end but I will use the 3 links for this) as they are heavy beasts. 
     
    Finally re the purchases I have started to accumulate the stock required as Heljan have a habit of doing a run and then stopping it - noting that most of their excellent modern image wagons are currently no longer available. I have acquired the three Heljan Mk I’s and a GUV already from Tower Models as well as pre ordered 2 CCT’s and a Mk II coach awaiting release 2022. For the vans I used the great deal Tower Models had and bought 6 x Planked and 6 x Plywood Dapol vans all individually numbered. That will just leave one off wagons in kit or RTR format to be added later if required.
     
    The detail on the Heljan MK I’s is superb and the Dapol vans pretty much take up the length of Wenford  As I mentioned, this stock is being stored for now using some nifty foam lined plastic container boxes by these guys https://trainsporters.com

    A few pics below…
     

    Board layout and end on view…

    Mapped out using actual stock…

    Stretching their legs on Wenford…

    The typical Kyle rake with BG located in the centre for the ramp…

    The complete rake of vans!…

    Heljan 37 on the previous mock up…

    And again with stock in platform….
     
    That’s all for now and as usual, comments welcomed!
     
    Pete
     
     

     
     
  12. bcnPete

    RAILEX…virtually…

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Hi all,
     
    As we ease ourself into a BH weekend just to let you know that Kyle will be attending the RAILEX virtual show tomorrow Saturday 29th May 2021.
     
    The layout was lined up to attend the original show but will appear at a date to be confirmed when some sense of normality returns. Meantime, I was honoured to be asked to be part of the virtual show and details can be found here:  
     
    http://www.railex.org.uk/index.php
     
     

     
    On my layout page there will be a selection of Chris Nevard photos in addition to a short video that I shot especially for the show.
     
    Look forwards to see you (virtually) there 
     
    Pete
     
  13. bcnPete

    The dries the limit...Part II

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all - time for a quick update.
    Work has been progressing on a number of fronts namely the dries buildings and the rolling stock. Firstly I have been gradually applying water based paints to both the buildings following the grey primer coat. These are being built up and then weathering powders are applied on top. I am working on them ‘offsite’ in a foamboard enclosure to prevent them falling over as before and breaking all the gutters off 
     
    The first building (the shallower one) has been glued in place and I will continue final weathering including dusting the whole lot down with white powder...a bit of talcum will be rather welcum...
     
    The second building still needs a bit more work before I commit to glueing in position. I will then bed them in at the base, add some weeds and grass, creaks in the concrete apron etc.
     
    Secondly, I also made a start on some weathering. The 08 had the piston rods painted yellow (hated the red ones!) and it has been renumbered to 08488 which was a regular down at Wenford. Thanks to John Peck of Precision Labels for prepping the transfers for me. I have then applied some first layers of weathering powders and some black paint.
    Whilst not finished, it’s amazing the difference it makes now to a spot of shunting at the dries.
     
    I have also made a start on the Skytrex van using some weathering powders. Again, taking the edge off these out of the box models really makes a difference. Underframe will be next and also trying to tone down the Skytrex hoodies which are a tad plasticy. Next on the list is to start applying some paint to the Slaters BV kit.
     
    Attached are a few photos from various view points. I am experimenting with making a few short videos and editing them in iMovies. Once done I will upload a few.
     

    Overall shot...

    Starting to add colour and staining...

    Dapol renumbered 08488 (note out of the box Skytrex van in background)

    Skytrex van with some powders on the body...

    Van is deposited in the short spur...

    Clearance is just enough for a China clay wagon or the van...

    Need to bed the buildings in and finish weathering...

    Van awaiting unloading...

    Shuffling some China clay wagons around...

    Need to try and lose the plasticy nature of the wagons...

    Ready to depart from Wenford...
     
    That’s all for now...as always comments welcome...
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  14. bcnPete

    kyle 7mm (working title)

    By bcnPete,


    General
    HNY all!
     
    New Year - New Project! 
     
    Well...not quite yet...am 100% committed to completing Wenford dries first...however there has been an idea long in my mind to recreate my 2FS extract of Kyle in 7mm scale. Strange you may think to recreate an identical layout in a different scale...well, Ian Futers, long a hero of mine did it with Lochside I recall (P4 - 7mm) and for me Kyle gives the perfect excuse to run a blend of passenger, parcels and freight, all short trains.
     
    The idea first came about more than 10 years ago when I was living in BCN. Eager to toe dip in the senior scale (after all, I was the good side of 50 then ) I purchased a Lima class 33, a PMP conversion kit to make a class 26/27 and three Lima S/H passenger coaches. Said items all resided in the gloat box and were surpassed when the Dapol 08 arrived along with a few hoods...which eventually made it to my now ‘work in progress’ extract of Wenford Dries. So called ‘extracts’ as I choose a prototype and then due to space extract the ingredients to try and capture a sense of time and place of the area. 
     
    Regular follows also know of my obsession with IKEA Lack shelves as baseboards, again something that came from BCN in 2007. Kyle in 7mm has been mapped out many times on different lack shelf templates, both1100mm long and 1800mm long as I enjoy the constraints they bring (Wenford uses 2 x 1100mm shelves) However even back then I realised that the 260mm width would just not capture the scene, only the track. The dock side harbour edge and the platform/station building in relief would need to be added to the width.
     
    Fast forward to now and my need to look beyond Wenford as a layout project. Coupled with the re-release of the recently announced Heljan classes 26 and 27 and a preordered Heljan 37/4 which I will tell you more about another time  
     
    Mojo was low the last few months, so after a reread of some Ian Futers layout articles I dusted down the project to start pre planning. Current thinking is it needs a Scenic board circa 2m long and the same for the Fiddleyard, probably custom made. This would allow a 37/4 and three coaches. I also have a backup option using IKEA 1800mm boards although with this 7mm stuff it’s hard to manoeuvre them around the apartment...1100mm just about doable on my own 

    The other dilemma I have is either to recreate what I did before in 2FS or to add more interest, model the other side of the station.
     

    (Link was posted here but it’s showing the image - assume that’s ok Mods?)
     
    Both would again be reduced in width to allow the water, so you get separate water, trains and mountain datums which give it depth. The other side of the station is not as well documented in photographs and also features an additional turnout on the run around loop having not been simplified in later years. This creates additional operational interest but am worried it crams too much track in...this one I am pondering some more.
     
    The lengths were first worked out using rough templates drawn over Wenford in pen on tracing paper. Here’s where the Lima stuff comes in use again to gauge train lengths. When you see the Lima Mk I’s think Heljan, Dapol or Darstead and when you see the 33 think Heljan 26/27  


     

     
    Following this I drew this in CAD approximately using dimensions based on Wenford but increased in width. Here I have flipped the layouts showing options of either side and also 2000mm and 1800mm board/shelf versions (1800mm not shown) Plan and indicative fascia elevation shown including my cheeky windows into the FY’s.

     

    In terms of construction, my usual cantilevered proscenium arch arrangement allowing 50mm ribs at the rear to support a hidden light at the front. For the FY this arrangement would be flipped with the ribs at the front fascia edge and possibly some horizontals to store some stock. 4 track traverser is assumed but I might have a separated head to allow loco runaround (2FS Kyle requires lifting and turning the locos...not as heavy as these beasts though!) Here’s a sketch of how the arrangement may come together...
     


    Following this, I decided to make a quick n dirty mock up. In 2FS you can do the whole thing, but whilst I didn’t feel the need to recreate all the 4m length of it, being an Architect I was keen to see how the cross section worked. An ‘extract of the extract’ if you like! That would show proportions, as well as viewing portal and general relationships between track and scenery...a lot cheaper than doing it all in timber first. The two different track arrangement were laid out in plan cobbled from some C+L paper templates.
     

     

     
    The first option represents the view as per Kyle 2FS with simplified runaround. The second option represents the other view as per prototype picture above...
     
    Here’s some pics of the full size mock up...again, when you see the Lima Mk I’s think Heljan, Dapol or Darstead and when you see the 33 think Heljan 26/27 - stay with me on this one 
     

    Overall view from viewing side...

    Extract of harbour side, platform and relief station captured...

    This option allows some extra stock to be left in the siding....

    Wagon left on harbour side whilst loco runs around train...

    Depth allows the three datums as per 2FS Kyle...

    From above...

    This represents Kyle as my 2FS one so would have a fence between tracks...
     
    So what I have learnt from all this over the festive period? Well a number of things:
     
    - I think the project is doable (either option still works for me)
    - 7mm takes up a lot of real estate (Adding the FY gives me storage issues!)
    - The harbour side on the mock up should be reduced in height (thanks Mickey!)
    - The width can be squeezed by 50mm giving 450mm overall depth.
    - The viewing portal will be increased another 50mm in height.
     
    The latter was based on Wenford of 250mm but that has a shallower depth so works ok  proportion wise. This 50mm will also allow more mountain backscene.
     
    So that is where I am at...expect it to be a slow burn as I am committed to complete Wenford Dries first...but I think I have the all important ‘next project’ lined up.
     
    As always, comments welcomed...
     
    Pete
     

     
     
     
     
     
  15. bcnPete

    Light on...Light off...

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Happy Christmas all,
     
    A quick update on the Brake Van kit started previously. Prior to painting I wanted to explore installing a working tail lamp. After various searches I found one by ModelYard and after a few helpful email exchanges with Rob, he sent me a kit and a wiring diagram. The intention was to power the lamp from the track using wipers on the wheels fashioned from a kit previously bought at a show.
     
    The lamp was set up and various wires fed through to the underside of the chassis to link up with the pickup arrangement. This then proved to be troublesome as I found it difficult to get the spring action of the wire against the inside of the wheels. The lamp was on when on the track but upon moving the BV they slipped off and the lamp flickered...but not in a good flicker way! So a quick reorganisation the day after with the wires trailing on the top of the wheels...again, the same result
     
    So after another conversation with Rob, I decided to go old School and run it off a small battery but with a small inline switch that Rob provided. For this to happen I had to modify the roof to make it removable to access. This needed to be done anyway as the sides were bowing inwards. A few experiments with various layers of plasticard enables the roof to now slot in and out, whilst realigning the sides. 
     
    I also took advantage to remove the curved rain strips to the roof which was subject to comments on the last post. So now it can move to the paint shop.
     
    Rob of ModelYard was very helpful and should I require more lamps I won’t hesitate to go back to him.
     
    As always, comments welcome...
     
    Pete
     

    Roof removed - the bowed sides can be seen...

    The crude inserts which enable the roof to sit properly...

    Light off...

    Light on...
  16. bcnPete
    Evening all and hope you had a good Easter,
     
    My 2mmFS mojo seems to have dried up at the moment so the good thing about having a 7mm layout means I can switch focus  I also have this week off work so I hope to do some more on this layout.
     
    This entry concerns one of the pieces of rolling stock acquired some years ago as part of the fleet - A Slaters 7mm BR Brake Van. I haven’t made any kits for some years and it seemed a good project to begin this weekend, ahead of the week. 
     

     

     

     
    Following a read of the instructions...and several re-reads...I began work on the underframe. I have to say I found the instructions a bit lacking in detail in places and it seems where parts of the kit have been updated...the instructions haven’t  
     
    Following a few forum threads and prototype photos I have got to a position where it is just requiring the handrails and painting/transfers etc. to finish...this from spending a few hours a day on it. Mainly assembled with Mek Pak and superglue it has had some liquid weight applied underneath and I may put some more before I fix the roof on permanently.
     
    I hope to give it a test run in the next couple of days whilst progressing the layout - more on this later in the week.
     
    Here’s a few pics of where it stands at the moment...
     

     

     

     
    As always, comments welcome,
     
    Pete
  17. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Good lockdown progress has been made on the dries since the last update the end of April - a few hours at the weekends chipping away has certainly accelerated where I thought the layout would be at this stage.
     
    Aside from adding gutters and drain pipes to the first building, I wanted to make a start on the second one and get them both to the same status. Using the same build as previously a foam board base was formed onto which various plastic sheets have been applied. I moved a few holes so that the programming track remains hidden but have opened up two bays to give some depth. Again I have gone for construction ease on the roof, so no internal roof trusses have been modelled. 
     

     

     
    For the roof I wanted to capture the slight randomness and not have everything perfect. To do this each of the panels have been cut and laid individually. Whilst it has taken more time I think it is worth it as it has given some slight relief which I can pick up on when I come to the painting and weathering. A slither of plastic sheet at the top of the sheet allows the slight sense of overlap on the sheets.
     

     

     

     

     
    The building was then sprayed grey to help flush out where more work is required and also give a base for the detail painting. At 2.2m long it’s quite some length of buildings!
     

     

     

     

     
    A few drain pipes need to be added to this building as well as glazing the two windows but aside from that it will be time to start adding paints. I think I will work these up off site and then bed them up before any final tweaking and weathering is added.
     
    As always, comments welcome and stay safe all,
     
    Thanks,
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
  18. bcnPete

    Ballast and clay...

    By bcnPete,

    Morning all,
     
    After an intense 3 months of work, including readjustment to WFH I was happy to have pre booked a week off after Easter to have a break and of course, profit from some modelling given current restrictions. 
     
    Following the last post with the apron, the next job before tackling the dries was to undertake the ballasting. This was using some black ash ballast from Green Scene following the tests I did and posted last year. No point to dwell too much on the ballasting as this was done using the tried and tested dry lay, mist coat and then pva/wul/water mix. One board seemed to adhere better though and even after a coat of a well known hair spray manufacturer, giving it much needed volume and bounce  I resorted to a second spray of said solution. This seems to have fixed it with just the usual patches needing some touching in.
     
    The chairs have been painted rust colour and the whole thing now needs toning down using some weathering powders. I also added some patches of static grass just to give the feel of it becoming unloved as this is set circa 1983 just before it closed...small hints of weeds will be added to the apron and the gap between the concrete and rails in due course.


     
    Right, that’s the ballast bit....now the clay bit...namely the dries. As mentioned before I had produced some drawings based upon the originals from an Architect friend I studied with and these formed my quick n dirty foam mock ups. Whilst I usually prefer to work in card, I knew I was going to build the dries in plastic as I needed a mixture of random stone (the base) concrete (the floor and projecting platforms) brick (for the columns) and block (for the later infills) Primarily as I didn’t fancy applying DAS and hand scribing and ending up with a mixture of materials. All of the sheets were purchased from South Eastern Finecast at an exhibition but also topped up by mail order direct during lockdown. 
     
    I started by building a foam board carcass of about 300mm long which was then expanded  bit by bit. The brick columns were cut paying attention to photographs and counting courses and received a few strokes with a file on the edges to get mitred corners making sure the courses lined through...that’s the Architect in me coming through 
     

     
    Random stone was applied using double sided tape and I built a brick pier followed by a block work infill before commencing the next brick pier again. This continued until I had the complete length (1100mm approx.) and I set about making the timber wall plates and rafters. Here is where things took a detour  I started the first bay building the rafters bearing on the wall plate with the idea I would attach the fascia board. The fascia board was pre prepared using some excellent gutter brackets found online by googling. Giles kindly ran me off some and dispatched in time for this week. These were glued into place and the fascia board offered up and glued in place as per attached pic.
     

     
    Feeling pretty pleased with myself, whilst I transported the layout back to the spare room, I bumped into a shelf and the dries building fell flat on its face...breaking off all the gutter brackets - the room was filled with much fruity language  Relax, walk away, think it through and ponder overnight.
     
    The next day the first task was to make a foam board support jig to prevent this happening again...It then occurred to me that I was approaching this all wrong as I was having trouble keeping the alignment of the fascia as well as having to cut/trim each individual rafter  Ok, time for rethink...and some cheating 
     

     
    At the level of viewing the underside of the rafters will be barely visible from the front, so why build this as a traditional roof? What was needed was a box type structure with a soffit board to allow me to get the alignment as well as attach the gutter brackets separately to the front. This was made in sections, welded together with MekPak and attached to the structure. This would allow the fascia board to be attached as well as the profiled roof sheets. Win. 
     

     
    So to end the week, I attached the fascia boards (having first predrilled and glued the gutter brackets) filled some joins with model filler and then the whole assembly was taken to the garage for a spray with grey primer...to see what needs more work! I have sprayed a test piece of roof but am not so sure about the profile yet so will get some more options before attaching. I now need to add the gutters, downpipes and further detail such as metal guard rails etc. 
     

     

     

     
    The unit was placed on the layout and some test running followed to check clearances. One of the projecting platforms needed a tickle with a file as the handrails on the 08 caught on it but this is an easy fix. First runs were shocking despite cleaning the track prior to remove the pva and paint so a good coating of IPA on the rails seems to have resolved that.
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    Going forwards I am tempted to now start the dries buildings on the other board before I start painting and weathering this one however I will see how the mood takes me on that. I now have a methodology to build the other more complicated building and as this sits more forward and will be more visible I may look at trying to laser cut some timber rafters at the studio when life gets back to some normality.
     
    Overall I am happy with what has been produced this week and turning a negative into a positive, this lockdown has allowed me to progress with the modelling which normally is undertaken for a couple of hours at the weekends.
     
    As always, comments welcomed and stay safe all,
     
    Pete
     
  19. bcnPete

    On with the apron...

    By bcnPete,

    Afternoon all,
     
    Here’s an update on progress since November.
     
    Unfortunately I didn’t feel like modelling for a while as I lost my Mum just before Christmas and small trains seemed irrelevant  Following Christmas I wanted to start the year positive and my Mum always liked when I worked on the hobby so I decided to get cracking again. I realised that there was less than 6 months to the 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee in June and work deadlines are intense until Easter so it was unlikely my Treviscoe entry would be built in time, so have decided to try and finish Wenford. This was the same decision taken with Kyle and I was pleased to have done so as it’s good to try and complete something rather than have loads of projects on the go.
     
    The next task before I can commence the buildings is the concrete apron and ballasting. You may recall I did some tests last year and having had a few disasters previously in 2mmFS with DAS/ inset track  I decided on using card for the inlays. The lines of the apron were drawn out and then 5mm foam board was used at the outer edges to define the line. 1mm white card from the studio workshop  were then cut accordingly using templates drawn over the track with tracing paper. This proved to be as painful as I was expecting and involved much cutting, recutting and fruity language 
     
    As per my previous mock up, I had decided to stop the apron a few mm short of the outer rail. This was twofold as I recall from previous discussions this was done to allow access to rail chairs and also I wanted to represent the crud/weeds that forms/grows between the two.
     
    The next painful part was to apply readymixed filler in between the card and outer rail making sure it was slightly lower than the rail edge. This was time consuming and took two weekends to complete.
     
    Once the apron was formed, including adding a few joints in the concrete (I might add a few more) I then closed off the outer edges with postcard to cover the foam board as well as give the impression of a monolithic slab cast. The whole area was then given a coat of some Wilko beige emulsion from a test pot as I would like to try and capture the creamy effect rather than just grey. 
     
    Earlier today I gave the whole area a sanding with wet n dry and cleaned the paint off the rails. The Advantage of finishing the card infill just below the rail is so I don’t remove the surface when track cleaning. I have dry brushed in some weathering powders using grey, beige and black to begin to build up the appearance. This will be further added to and probably some white too given that it’s a China clay dries.
     
    To conclude the session, the 08 was test run to check clearances and profiles. Some minor tweaking ensued with the scalpel but overall it all ran fine so the next task will be the ballasting of the front road. Once the ballast and apron are done I can then commence the dries buildings at the rear. I have various stone, brick and block plastic sheets so I will start some tests beforehand...after all, I have a building some 2.2 metres in length to construct!
     
    A few pics showing progress...
     

     
    Card and foam board build ups...
     

     
    Almost flush with rail...but just set below...
     

     
    Cutting the awkward curved pieces...note this arrangement is formed as per the prototype...
     

     
    Infill to rail and card to represent crud...
     

     
    Google earth shot showing filler and effect I am trying to achieve...
     

     
    Infill and filler complete...tedious but necessary work...
     

     
    First board with initial weathering...second board with prior basecoat applied...
     

     
    Initial weathering of apron...this will be built up gradually...
     
    As always, comments welcome,
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
  20. bcnPete

    The dries the limit...

    By bcnPete,

    Evening all,

    There has been little progress on Wenford since the last post but Rich Brummitt of this parish popped around yesterday afternoon for some matters 2mmFS...so it seemed a good chance to set the layout up and push the dark side of the senior scale...
     
    The layout also has a potential show invite for Wycrail 2021. It was 2022 and I thought yep, 3 years is possible...then I was told they have a slot for 2021...so I thought, why not...nothing like a deadline to focus the mind 
     
    One thing I have been looking at is the construction of the buildings...which look to be a mixture of stone with brick piers, with some openings later closed up with blockwork. I have bought some sample 7mm plastic sheets of each type recently at a show and like the track mockup I may make a small section to test.
     
    I am fortunate that a friend that I studied architecture with has a practice that submitted an entry for a competition to convert the dries to some accommodation a few years back. He kindly sent me the drawings (for my own use not publishing etc.) which were a set of PDF files. On here was a series of sections cut through the dries building. I have then imported the PDF sheets into CAD and drawn over them to create the basic forms to scale. I have used minimal lines to capture the profile including the roofs. 
     

     
    I then superimposed each of the sections on my CAD sections produced for the layout when I cut the fascias in 3mm plywood giving these two images...
     

     

     
    Obviously due to the narrowness of the Ikea lack shelves one of the buildings will be very low relief however I have a cunning plan to improve this...“so cunning you can brush your teeth with it”  More on that another time...
     
    I then used some photos and started to map out the elevations to get a feel for the number of openings which are either open or blocked up...I have been careful so the open ones do not show through the small opening and programming track at the mirror end! 
     

     
    These have then be crudely pasted on to the foamboard mock ups that are currently helping me gauge the scene. Here’s an overall shot and close up but excuse the bubbling/peeling off which may have been due to where they were stored.
     

     

     

     
    I am still pondering whether to make the building carcasses in 3mm ply or foamboard although am conscious I want to keep the weight down as the Lack shelves are noticeably heavier since the ply fascias were added...still manageable...but am not getting any younger 
     
    Finally, here’s a short video I took of Rich B getting to grips with the sound chipped 08. Despite the simple track plan, there was an hours worth of moving wagons around to leave one in the short spur. I think Rich enjoyed himself  I certainly did, just watching!
     

    As always, comments welcomed...
     
    Pete
     
  21. bcnPete

    Kyle be back...

    By bcnPete,

    Evening all,
     
    Quick update to say Kyle appeared at the Wycrail one day show yesterday.
     
    As always, a very nice show and very friendly and helpful exhibition team. 
     
    Good to see some familiar faces for a catch up and also meet some new peeps. Received some very nice comments and overall the layout performed well.
     
    I really do need to sit down and work my way through the list of small things such as replacing knuckle couplings on coaches, corridor connections, checking all DG couplings etc. You would have thought with all the rainy days here in UK this would have been addressed 
     
    Show closed at 5:00pm, packed and ready to roll at 5:40pm, stopped for a well deserved quick pint of Doombar at the Squirrel Inn, then home by 7:05pm. 
     
    The next outings booked for the layout are the SWAG 2020 meet in April followed by Railex in May 2020 so Kyle will be back.
     
    Meantime, a few pictures from the layout yesterday - the two 37’s sounded delightful together...
     
    Pete
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

  22. bcnPete
    Morning all,
     
    After a lot of thought, I am afraid it’s time to pull the plug on this project and this time I think it’s the end.
     
    Whilst it was started as a 2mmFS DJLC entry it’s had a few setbacks with regard to ballasting and running qualities however the biggest issue is the enthusiasm for it. Granted the last 3 months the mojo has been low however the main problem is the layout has no future beyond the DJLC as it has very limited operating potential. Even attempts to include passenger traffic (the rash DMU sound installation) do not sit happy with my interests which tend to replicate traffic as featured on the line...so aside from a class 25 on a passenger rail tour (which form the majority of pictures of the line on the internet) it would not make for an interesting exhibition layout.
     
    It was also partly undertaken to try and further my landscaping modelling skills however most of my projects tend to be about ‘urban grot’ and are a bit more gritty (think Kyle, Paddock Wood, Wenfordbridge) so again another nail for said coffin.
     
    Am in two minds what to do with it - either bubble wrap it and consign it to the garage or to try and sell it on to get a few coppers back in the modelling pot.
     
    I would like to end on an upbeat note so thank you to everyone for their interest shown in this project and rest assured there is a new plan that was hatched recently (which I may try to upload this evening) which features a project which not only meets the DJLC requirements (so a deadline to kickstart the mojo) but has a life beyond it.
     
    More on that later...
     
    Thanks all,
     
    Pete
  23. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    Here’s an introduction to an idea for a follow up layout in 2mmFS. I had been debating whether to move into 7mm and progress further with my china clay layout however maybe there is one more 2mmFS layout in me before the eyes and patience give up
     
    Partly inspired by the excellent Meanach in Model Rail recently, which has prior featured on here and been a favourite too, the lure of the Scottish period in BR Blue is too hard to resist. By staying with 2mmFS means an opportunity to create a ‘train in a landscape’ but keeping it within a size which could still be termed micro layout I have again turned to my favourite Ikea Lack shelves which provide the dimensional restraints. A good flick through of the two Ian Futers Scottish layout books revealed an image (usually just one is justification) of a class 27 passing through a station between a loch and a rock face. Unfortunately I can’t post It here so as to avoid copyright issues.
     
    This photos was the spark and the research commenced. Situated on the scenic line to Oban, the station seemed to be at its heyday until closure in 1968, reopening in 1985 having been simplified to a single line and sprinters. Here is where a dollop of Rule No.1 comes in as this would probably not make for a great exhibition layout, however clearly loco hauled trains to Oban would have still run through it.
     
    So my proposal is to use the 68 track plan but set it around mid eighties so I can run class 27’s and later class 37’s. One of the things that I think has been successful (from feedback) on my interpretation of Kyle of Lochalsh is the layering of the scenery - harbourside water at the front, station at the next level and then mountains in the backscene. This project uses the same ingredients however there will be a larger expanse of water at the front, station at the next level then the intruiging Loch Awe Hotel at high level in bas relief behind - all surrounded by trees, foliage and rock faces. I think this is also why St Ruth is such a popular layout on the circuit as it has similiar levels of depth and perspective 
     
    To put in context, here are a few images to begin with...

    It’s an incredibly beautiful setting...

    The hotel obviously has to form part of the model...
     
    As usual, much has been pondered first by sketches to try and help make decisions. There will be one Lack 1100x260mm scenic board and two 590x260mm Lack fiddle yards. This will avoid having a joint halfway through the water  I can also store the two FY’s in one box and the scenic box in another, not unlike Kyle.
     
    Here’s a series of sketches undertaken recently...
     

    Option 2 was chosen so as not to cramp the two sidings...

    Option B avoids joints in the water...

    Setting out the proportions...

    Operations and track plan has been skewed slightly...

    Presentation ideas and overall feel of layout...

    Dimensions for fascia and viewing...
     
    Following this I have emailed the Architects who undertook a refurbishment of the hotel to see if I can get copies of some drawings. Two emails later, still no replies so plan B will mean producing my own CAD drawing of it and building a representation from that. I need to try and purchase a few books on the line as there is not much photographic record in the early eighties presumably as the station was shut...Trains to Oban will include passenger, oil and mixed freight I assume.
     
    Following this I have made a crude full scale mock up using foamboard from the work studio. As previous mock ups I have used the white balls as Architectural interpretation of trees so no gags about The Prisoner series again please 
     
    Here are some pics with a few trains laid out to give an impression...The footbridge will be modelled  and possibly the signal cabin but I will be trying to convey glimpses of trains through the trees and foliage so the platforms will be kept pretty simple. The half station allows 3 coach trains (I have some pics of Large logo class 37’s on three coaches) which will fit nicely on each fiddle yard at either end. The two sidings allow for some shunting to add interest. 
     

    Google Earth overview...

    Front on view of scenic section...

    Overall shot...large expanse of water at front to be modelled...
     
    I have more photos of the mock up but will perhaps save for a second follow up entry as I think I have exceeded the 10MB size limit...
     
    The plan is to try and finish Meeth for the 2mmFS 60 years celebration in 2020 and that will be used as a test bed to improve my scenic landscape skills as Kyle is pretty urban!
     
    As with Kyle, this again represents my interpretation of a place so is not meant to be an exact scale copy however it will hopefully have enough ingredients that people who have been there can recognise it...and in addition be an entertaining exhibition layout.
     
    Would love to hear your feedback and thoughts on it,
     
    Thanks, Pete
     
  24. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Quick update from the Mid Essex one day show held yesterday. A nice small show with a selection of quality layouts and good traders. Was a nice surprise to see Ian Futers there, having met him some years ago - bit of a modelling legend for me as his P4 Lochside layout was so instrumental when we were growing up...also was an inspiration for Kyle.
     
    The layout performed well overall with just a loose wire in the Fiddleyard noticed prior to the start of the show. A crocodile clip came to the rescue to see me through the show
    A few things on my list to try and sort prior to my next show later this year. Received some nice comments on the layout including the ‘where’s the other half of it’
     
    Nice talking to 2mmFSer David Eveleigh who visited and discussing his plans for a DJLC competition entry...David won the 50 year layout competition previously.
     
    Well looked after at the show by Ken and his team including being delivered Fish + Chips and Apple Pie + Cream to my layout as was operating on my own all day.
     
    Next layout outing for Kyle is Wycrail on 2nd November - do drop by and say hello if you are attending
     
    Until then,
     
    Pete
     

     

     
     
  25. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    You May recall last year after a ballasting disaster and frustrating running qualities I ripped up the track and put the project on hold...however I am pleased to update that there has been recent progress.
     
    I took the layout up to the 2mmFS supermeet in Tutbury recently and received some nice feedback on it, which comprises my DJLC 2020 competition entry. More importantly it’s being done in an effort to try and improve on my rural scenic skills...especially if Loch Awe gains traction once this is completed
     
    Thanks are firstly due to Bryn and Matt who kindly hatched a plan at the Supermeet. Knowing my struggles with turnout building and as a repayment (was not necessary!) to some plywood baseboard sheets I produced, Matt bought an Easitrac turnout kit from the shop and Bryn offered to build it. Sure enough, a few days after Tutbury a beautifully made turnout kit arrived in the mail - thanks again guys
     
    Armed with this, easitrac plain track was threaded and a new catch point was fashioned (less for me to get wrong ) onto a piece of 1mm plywood cut to fit on the trackbed. This was done as since the fascias and lighting are in place I wanted to be able to build it offsite on the workbench without obstacles. Next up, after establishing where holes were required, was to solder droppers on to the track so I could spray the track offsite again and protect the backscene. The droppers were cut short to about 20mm to ease threading them all through the holes.
     
    The trackwork was then sprayed using a can of  ‘weathered sleepers’ and set aside to dry.
     
    This weekend I glued the track unit down with PVA and connected the droppers to the busbars and wires previously installed from the first version. Power was applied and I am pleased to say it worked - I just need to redo the wire in tube mechanism link to the slide switch now as I would like the two to operate as one - more on that when it happens.
     
    The next task will be to apply the ballast (user the dry in place and soak method this time) and hopefully after some routine work with a screwdriver it will still work and we will be back to where I was last year
     
    In other brief news, I also succumbed to fitting a sound chip to my Farish 101 DMU which will trundle back and forth on this layout. A little operator license I know, but just to make it a tad more interesting than a China clay train coming and going. Once again, Nick Bastable is wholly responsible for my sound purchases especially as it was his DMU on Kyle at the AGM that got me into this sound malarkey 
     
    A few pics of progress here:
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    As always, comments welcome...
     
    Pete
     
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