Deano747

Hi Amanda Lucky you for having the options! Like you, and many others, I started in 4mm (OO/HO) as a kid. I then had a dabble into 18.83 gauge (P4, of course, but I could never match the detail of such, but I liked the look of true gauge and building track) Age catching up and eyesight not quite as good, I subsequently moved to 7mm and have never regretted it. I am still not up to the fine detailing like many on here (like the professional builders; envy, envy!!) but I do enjoy the larger scale. At the end of the day of course it's personal; preference, space, finances, etc.... Go for what gives you most enjoyment. Regards, Deano. Edit: To say, I'm aware it's not just the professional builders that are capable of adding fine detail, there are many hobby modellers equally capable!! (Just not me!)

If you have an auto-trailer to build, and can afford it then go big! I have the 14" one from Eileen's and wouldn't be without it. (7mm modeller) I also bought some cheaper 4 and 8 inch versions just for smaller work but rarely use them! Regards, Deano

Another excellent, clean build, Ken. "As usual", built in less time than it takes me to read the instructions!! (....yes, I know you've built a few of these!) Regards, Deano.

The problem I see is that they are 4mm kits!! Not that that is really a problem other than you're building 7mm? Regards, Deano.

You could remove all the track, cover it with grass, bushes and trees and call it The Beechings! Hat, coat, engine's running!!

Great news Ade, Christmas has come early!! Regards, Deano.

Hi, you won't be disappointed. Jims kits go together well albeit basic under frame detail (only if you look!), but a good end result. I recently built his Loriot M and it went together well. Although I'm not a beginner, (nor a Pro!!) they are certainly good starter kits. Regards Deano.

Oh, and if you want quality and heavy duty, then Record vices!! Although I did pick up a small bench mounted 2 1/2" at a car boot for a fiver which is amazing quality, as in the jaws are parallel!! Pot luck really! Regards Deano

Little'n looks pretty mean too!!! Regards Deano

Driver still looks fit and well!!!

Hopefully things will get better for many!! I'm lucky because I'm a key worker, still flying Covid PPE around the world, but I sympathise with people struggling in these times. Keep the building thread going Ken, as I, like many enjoy following your work. Regards and stay safe Deano

OUCH!! Sorry to hear of your scare, but glad you're still fighting fit. To reiterate what others have said, take it easy for a while!! Regards Deano

Glad to hear the news, Ade!! Onwards and upwards!! Regards Deano

Thanks, noted on the warning about Horolene. I know a damn good wash after use is essential! Regards Deano

Hi All Jeweller's solution is Horolene watered down 1 part to 7 water. I bought a litre thinking it was used out of the tin so I have a lifetime supply now!! My other methods are Viakal and Garryflex abrasive blocks of various grades. I'm not a fan of fibreglass pens but they do have good uses. I also use various chinese rotary polishing tools in the Proxxon hand drill. Regards and stay safe, Deano.

Only 7 for me at the mo!! Nice one Andy!! Regards, Deano.

For info, I cover my steel plate with tin foil and slide thin card between. a) the foil helps prevent it rusting and b) the card helps to prevent it acting as a big heat-sink! Regards, Deano

Found it! Very sneaky! Do i get chocolate now?? Regards, Deano.

Aahhhhh!! Didn't see the edit!! Regards, Deano.

Bit easier this week Andy! Still good fun! Regards, Deano.

Very nice, George! Is the black rattle can or airbrush? Nice finish, whichever. Regards, Deano.

Nice one Andy! 3, The mountain was the troublesome one for me!! Look forward to the next one. Regards Deano

Got there eventually, and some tricky ones!! Good fun though! Regards Deano

Good to hear from you Ade. As others have said, good luck with the 'fight'! Hope your dad recovers ok too; been there with my late father years ago. Quite a worry! All the v best Deano.

Hi Ade/ Lez Very quiet on here. Hopefully things working out in these very stressful times. Best regards Deano.