shropshiresteamer

As correctly reported, Keyser produced several Spanish models in their Continental range. The Norte 0-3-0 was re-issued in the 90's with re-worked etched chassis accompanied by Romford wheels and DS10 motor. This was successfully marketed in Spain by FKE. The Renfe 4-8-4 Confederation was similarly updated and again was marketed by FKE. Keyser also produced the Catalan Brill 3-car set and the old-timer Mataro engine and matching coaches - the latter being injection-moulded. There was also a Mikado 2-8-2 but this was never revived. By way of illustration some photos of the Norte, the huge Confederation, the Brill railcar, the Mataro and its coaches are attached

Having noted several expressions of interest in the revival of the Nucast N15X, I was prompted to post a photo of my current project. The tender is now ready for painting: the engine body is all but ready for priming and the chassis is well on the way. It is to be powered by a Portescap and the Markits wheel sets are set up for installation. Next, the cylinders, valve gear, current collection.... It is many years ago when first I came across the Roche drawings for the "Remembrance" and I built one from scratch - nickel-silver and all the rest, then stupidly sold it in the interests of funding the purchase of a Triumph Spitfire. So I suppose that this project is a matter of reliving the distant past!

I recently obtained a Siphon F kit which is now awaiting final painting. The kit was supplied with American bogies which have been fitted with Romford/Markits pin-point wheels and brass buffers in place of the white-metal versions. Referencing Jim Russell's "Great Western Coaches" confirms that only six "F" Siphons were constructed in 1906 to Diagram 0.7 with a choice of three different bogies - originally 9' Volute, then later American 9' or 7' plate. Presumably K's chose the American as these were already available to them, having been created for their Autocoach kit.

Several people have asked about the GWR 2500 gallon tender as there seems to have been some confusion. The small 2500g belongs with the outside framed "Duke" and the Beyer Peacock 322. It has a 6'6" x 6'6" axle spacing whereas the 3000g which went with the Dean Goods and Aberdare is 7'6" x 7'6". The Nucast 2500g was a new version and came with etched chassis, brake gear etc. Photos of my 322 Beyer-Peacock and "Duke" as well as Dean Goods attached to illustrate