Connoisseur Models 0-4-0 Starter Loco Kit

[gwrman]

Hi, has anyone done one of these as a first time kit, I'm just thinking of buying one.

 

Nigel

[A_S]

Hi Nigel,

 

I have infact just finnished one. I hope no one minds posting links to a rival forum but myself and Sirmeliot posted a very long and detailed thread here:

 

http://www.newrailwa...php?f=6&t=17166

 

There is also a little bit about the finishing and painting in here:

 

http://www.rmweb.co....orkbench-thead/

 

 

I couldnt think of a better way for you to start, it is a challange but very managable for the novice, I would suggest reading these as a help, i hope they can provide some inspiration. If you want any advice or tips then feel free to ask. I built mine as a first kit, first brass, first O Gauge and first in railway modelling, so i am well versed to give advice if you get stuck or aren't sure how to do something. Maybe you could use this thread here to start up a similar thread to the above.

 

Andrew

[3 link]

Hi Nigel,

 

I have built many of Jim's kits but not that particular loco, but what I would say is that I think you are doing the right thing as his kits are a joy to build. The etchings and castings are of a good quality with very little if any cleaning up to do, his instructions are easy to follow with little hints and tips along the way, I thoroughly reccomend his kit's and the usual disclaimer just a very satisfied customer.

 

ATB, Martyn.

[A_S]

Hi Nigel,

 

I have built many of Jim's kits but not that particular loco, but what I would say is that I think you are doing the right thing as his kits are a joy to build. The etchings and castings are of a good quality with very little if any cleaning up to do, his instructions are easy to follow with little hints and tips along the way, I thoroughly reccomend his kit's and the usual disclaimer just a very satisfied customer.

 

ATB, Martyn.

 

 

I'd also add that the instructions are fantastic - complete walk through - you can download a copy from Jim's website

 

http://www.jimmcgeown.com/0%20Gauge%20Starter%20Loco%20pdf%20print%20off.pdf

[Mike Boucher]

Hi, has anyone done one of these as a first time kit, I'm just thinking of buying one.

 

Nigel

 

Not that one, but I build one of Jim's GWR Loriot kits as my first attempt at etched brass. Great little kit for a first timer, and not very expensive either...

 

I did a write up about it on the "old forum" at http://www.rmweb.co....php?f=8&t=46653 and continued on the new at http://www.rmweb.co....ched-brass-kit/

 

His instructions are excellent.

 

I would suggest that you download his "O gauge kit building FAQ" booklet as well. It was very helpful to me: http://jimmcgeown.co...oklet%20pdf.pdf

 

Mike

[gwrman]

Hi guys, sent off my order today so will keep you posted on my progress soon.

Nigel

[gwrman]

Hi again, does anyone know of a website that I can order the Slaters wheels 7842W's and Plunger Pickups 7157, because the pickups aren't on the slaters site, or do I have to ring them to order them.

Nigel

[A_S]

I remember having quite some trouble finding them, ironically i saw them yesterday - https://slatersplastikard.com/scaleParts/7mmParts/locoParts/locoFittings.php 4th item down

[gwrman]

I remember having quite some trouble finding them, ironically i saw them yesterday - https://slatersplast...ocoFittings.php 4th item down

 

Many thanks, I don't know why they don't put them with the wheels or at least a link to them.

 

Nigel

[Poggy1165]

There's a very positive illustrated review of this kit in the current edition of the GOG Gazette.

 

My experience of Jim's kits generally is that they're first class.

[Ralph R]

Nigel,

 

I built one of these 3 or so years ago for a friend for Christmas. It was the simplest etch kit I have ever built and it just went together very easily. It is an excellent starter kit not only for 7mm but for anyone starting building etched kits. Enjoy the build.

 

The only extra I added were Dingham couplings which my friend used.

 

Ralph

[gwrman]

Hi guys, thanks for all your replys, went to my model railway club last night and mentioned to one of our members that I was going to do this kit. He said he'd done one, also he would bring it in to show me and give me any help I need.

Nigel

 

 

[dpgibbons]

Apologies for the bump but this seems the most appropriate thread to ask a few questions on the build.

 

Namely - any thoughts please about how much ballast is needed and if so where to put it (inside the tanks, I'm thinking) and how to fit DCC. A big stay-alive should be no problem, stuffed loose along with the decoder into the boiler, but I'm wondering if anyone has fitted sound. 

[PatB]

Rule of thumb on ballast is "as much as you can stuff into it". Given that the kit has proper bearings, you're unlikely to do any irreparable damage by overdoing it. 

 

Can't comment on DCC beyond the general observation that, assuming Slaters wheels (ie insulated both sides) it should be dead easy, with no electrical complications and plenty of space in an 0 gauge body.