Modern image 009 - Layout concept

[Stoker]

You could try and get hold of the N gauge Bachmann Spectrum 44-tonner, and then fit a larger cab - which would give you a nice "contractors" loco - eminently suitable for your purpose - there is one on this video

. You may have to order direct from USA . Review here http://mrr.trains.co...locomotive.aspx and a supplier here http://www.modeltrai...cher_s/2772.htm

 

 

Or you could convert the HO 44 tonner into it's narrow gauge counterpart 47 tonner, using a pair of bullants. This requires carefully cutting the cab from the bodyshell, and regluing it lower down. The chassis would need to be scratchbuilt, essentially, but it's not a complicated build. I can supply drawings for this project if you like the sound of it.

 

Alternatively, the Bachmann 0-6-0 plymouth diesel in N makes a nice locomotive if a larger cab is added. I went the whole hog with mine, scratch built a whole new body to match a narrow gauge plymouth prototype, removed the centre wheelset to convert it to an 0-4-0, and filed off the central axlebox and suspension detail on the sideframes. I've attached a photo of it. It's an excellent little runner, not quite finished yet but gives you some idea of what can be done.

 

There aren't really a great deal of British prototypes, unfortunately. American locos have been imported to the UK in the past. Alternatively, if you can stand their hideous appearance, there are continental european prototypes. Personally though if I was to start a logging operation in the UK I'd go with locomotives built in the USA, purely because of their logging pedigree.

 

 

[invercloy]

Looks rather like a Kato Japanese industrial loco

[Stoker]

Looks rather like a Kato Japanese industrial loco

 

Indeed, the Kato designs were essentially Plymouth ripoffs anyway.