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bcnPete

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  1. 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
     
     
     
  2. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Aside from the BV kit posted earlier this week, I mentioned I was hoping to do further works on the layout having taken the 4 days off work. Am happy to report some good progress has been made.
     
    First up was acquiring a Digikeijs DR500 which James at DCC Automation had suggested to me last year as I was worried about continually plugging and unplugging the wires on the Uhlenbrock Daisy between layouts. One of the great things about this bit of kit is that it has a socket which the Daisy handset can be plugged into. It also has 3 Amps so am told has more oomph for 7mm. Having mounted it in position and connected the track outputs and programme track, I plugged in the Daisy handset and off I went - It can also be connected to a laptop and also allows running stuff off your phone / tablet 

     
    Next up was spraying the track as despite most of it is inset, I wanted to ensure no silver bits can be seen between the gaps. This was done using Phoenix Precision track colour (weathered sleepers) and I do like the colour it gives as a base. The main road along the front will be ballasted so am looking at using black ash based on some colour photos I have of the line in use. Am still in two minds how to do the inset track as it’s been a disaster for me a few times on my 2mm layouts. I think after talking with Gordon and Maggie I will try card as they have done on Arun Quay - that looks fab  
     
    Then, the backscene was also filled and a first coat of off white put on to lighten it up. This was done using Wilco match pot testers. Most of it will be taken out by the dries buildings so it is more the sky for this model...and I try to avoid pure blue as it never seems to work for me  Some more filling and sanding required to finish this.
     
    Another development was to add a mirror as per Marc Smith’s suggestion at the start of this project. Rather than get one cut, I first tested the idea using some mirror sheet we had in our studio. It’s only 1mm thick so fairly easy to score and cut with a scalpel. I must say I am very happy with the result even though it’s just been dropped in temporarily - it needs bringing flush with the rail heads but first impressions is that it will give the dries added length...and double the amount of hoods as I only have 4 
     

     
    I also finished the lighting installation. Both boards/shelves are lit by a Screwfix type LED light, 911mm in length more usually used under kitchen cabinets giving a cool white light. As I wanted to have continuous lighting and no gaps, it occurred to me I could mount the 911mm fittings each end and then add a 300mm fitting to bridge the gap. This means the 911mm fittings are permanently mounted and secured with a glue gun. Once the layout is assembled, the 300mm fitting is then slid into position to link them. The beauty of this being, if I want to only work on one board/shelf at a time, I can still plug in a cable and light the 911mm strip whilst I am doing scenics  
     
    In the style of the Karate Kid Master...
     

    Lights off...
     
    Lights on...
     
    Finally I gave a couple of coats of my usual grey paint to the front fascias. One end will have the mirror, the other will have a clear perspex sheet. Am thinking of cutting two openings in that should I decide to add on a small cassette at a later date - this will be explored through sketches...watch this space  The layout name was also added in my usual font by self adhesive letters.
     
    The end of the week saw me having a little running session with the 08, hoods and BV kit. Much pleasure was derived from that sound chipped 08 shuffling a few wagons around. I have attached a few pics already so size restrictions prevent more. If I can upload a couple of vids I might do this as a separate follow up post. Overall, am happy with the way things are moving on this project.
     

     
    As always, comments welcomed...
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
     
     
  3. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    As Phase I of the 2014 refurb draws to a close (second coat of paint added to fascia and new lettering has been applied) I turned my thoughts to the new fiddle yard.
     
    As mentioned previously I would like to give cassettes a rest for a while and revert back to a traverser running on mini 150mm shelf runners that I acquired some place in BCN.
     
    One of the issues to be addressed was due to the track layout, for run-a-round the train needs to back the stock almost halfway into the fiddle yard so a short 'transitional ' piece was required which was worked out the other day to be about 200mm. This means the traverser can move independently without the train bridging it.
     
    Another issue was not being restricted by the travel length of the traverser meaning all roads could be used. It occurred to me a cheeky little slot could be formed in the facia allowing the traverser to slide out as and when required and also give sneak pics of the rolling stock (don't you just love to crank your neck at shows and get a preview of what's about to emerge?)
     
    With this in mind, sketches were happening during my work week as follows:
     

     
    Yesterday I had a brief visit to the Epson and Ewell show and suitably topped up with enthusiasm from seeing St Ruth and Diesels in the Duchy, I decided to make a mock up this afternoon. This is to test a few ideas as most of it will be laser cut at work so I wanted to flush out any immediate problems.
     
    Using a couple of sheets of 3mm foamboard I began to map out the enclosure to first get the continuity of the all important front presentation to the viewers. This will all be painted dark grey to match the recent fascia work. I also wanted to express the 'transitional' piece on the front (which also masks the join between the scenic section and FY) so have done so by introducing two 3mm shadow gaps to provide a neat solution. This will also incorporate the 2mmFS logo which I have from the first time it was exhibited.
     
    The traverser itself will have 5 roads which should be enough for say 3 fixed train formations and a couple of spare for run around etc. The ends of the roads will have a simple DPDT switch to isolate each individually - no complex sparks from me I am afraid
     
    There is also scope for one possibly two shelves built above the traverser to hold additional stock - will need to review this with the lighting positions.
     
    Having completed the mock up I can already see a few areas that need further work but overall I am happy with the results. One thing I quite like is the possible glow from the traverser slot when seen from the front.
     
    Here's a few iPhone pics with a little stock provided for scale...sorry about the light etc...its not so easy to take the layout outside as I used to do in BCN...
     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    Any comments most welcome...
     
    Pete
  4. 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
     

     
     
     
     
     
  5. bcnPete
    Morning all,
     
    A quick further update to report that I completed the ply fascia to the second Lack shelf this weekend.
     
    Same process as last time and when the boards were aligned together the two middle ends meet up quite nicely with only a mil or two difference in the top cantilevered fascia. Once its all painted in my standard grey paint finish hopefully it will look the part.
     
    The other good news is despite it being a bit of a 7mm beast in the Matcham household I have found a way to store it so it does not take up a lot more room than when it was just two Lack shelves with some track on. So far, no complaints have been lodged
     
    Next up is the layout lighting and I might return to using the extendable Ikea LED strip lights as I bought a shed load in BCN. Priority after that is to tidy the electrics and secure the wire in tube point/switches in place as the temporary nature of that may be causing sone of the shorts I occasionally get.
     
    A few pics attached.
     
    Whilst I am enjoying this 7mm excursion I do now have a plan in place to replace the two turnouts on Kyle so work on that will make a reappearance towards the last quarter of the year.
     
    As always, comments welcome...
     
    Pete
     

     

     

     

  6. bcnPete
    First up Happy New Year all
     
    Resolution nr. 1 - more modelling...less thinking about doing modelling
     
    It's been an intense period of work for me up until Christmas and likely through to Easter but having committed to the BHMRC show set for early May there is nothing like a deadline to get one focused.
     
    I had set myself a slightly unrealistic target of getting the Fiddle Yard finished and wired over the 10 day break and although I didn't quite make it, I gave it a fair crack. The intention was to build the track with a mixture of easitrac sleepers and pcb however the decision was made for me when I realised I had ordered the 600mm straight lengths of rail from the 2mm Association shop in flat bottom rail rather than bullhead...wondered why I couldn't thread it through the plastic chairs to begin with
     
    That said I do still like a bit of old fashioned track making...even if my soldering skills are still shocking. I first made the two feeder roads in the FY extension board which meant a slight revisit on the height and alignment issues - some tweaking still needed but at least this allowed me to progress. I then laid 216 sleepers individually yesterday afternoon fixed with cyno...which accounted for a rather dense headache which thankfully got slept off overnight.
     
    Today I have secured just the front leading edge of each of the 4 roads and this leaves me to pick off each road on a one by one basis as time permits.
     
    The jury is still out on the wiring and alignment however I still favour the brass rod or a mixture of brass rod and mini bulldog clips (I had two really small clips which I thought I had purchased from the 2mm shop but I can't seem to find them now or even in the 2mm product list - maybe I dreamt it)
     
    Here's how it stands at present - its not as neat as I would have liked but I may spray the overall FY in paint afterwards depending how it looks - I do like the rather raw appearance of pcb in FY's set against the scenic section...reinforces the cut off point between front and back of house.
     

    Feeder roads...
     

    Overall view of FY with 4 roads tacked at the critical end...
     
    The other thing I managed to get done this holiday was something I have been meaning to do for ages and hopefully will help facilitate more modelling...a small portable workbench.
     
    Now we no longer have space at home most of my modelling stuff is kept in a garage which is 200 metres from our apartment - needless to say, the enthusiasm to model of an evening fades at the prospect of trekking to said garage with a lamp to bring back various tools and bits and pieces.
     
    The workbench was knocked up after work in an hour just prior to Christmas and finished at home over the festive break. It is based around an A3 cutting mat which is tacked with double sided tape so can be removed if replacement is required. There is space for my soldering iron (as I am hoping to build some 2mm rolling stock kits) and two shelves for test tracks. The upper one incorporates a rolling road and the other end will have a spacer to set my DG couplings against. The lower one will probably be two pcb lengths of track to pose stock and check general running using a battery controller (Thanks Jerry, as I saw one in one of your posts and promptly purchased one )
     
    Beneath the two shelves are two pull out drawers with a mixture of tools and a few materials. The top is completed with a stand for liquids to prevent spillage and a linear light which uses my usual IKEA strip light solution. The whole thing is fashioned from a mixture of 5mm and 10mm foamboard and hopefully will allow me to work on things of an evening rather than sit in the sofa, watch tv and nod off
     
    Here's the portable workbench:
     

    Draws closed - New Farish class 37/4 awaiting running in prior to rewheeling to 2FS standards...
     

    Draws open - A3 mat is recessed to allow drawers to open...
     
    Finally, I downloaded one of those annoying apps to track how many days left to get my act together
     

     
    That's all - comments always welcome...
     
    Pete
  7. bcnPete
    Update - I pose the question as not only was the station identified in 'The Guardian' last year as currently the least used station in the UK but even when it opened in 1901, The Board of Trade cited " The new station at Coombe does not conform to the standard requirements of the Board, which are hardly applicable to the peculiar conditions existing here. Few if any passengers use it...it is necessary because a reversing place is needed...neither booking office nor conveniences are provided...consists of a single platform sufficiently long to accommodate the coaches of the Liskeard and Looe Railway...is to take the place of the existing station at Moorswater" *
     
    In between completing the sparks for board 3 and keen as I am to progress Moorswater dries (big thanks to Mark aka 46444 for taking some detailed photos for me after we arranged a visit with the Site Manager) I have started a little work on Coombe Junction station. The platform has been redone using 'wet and dry' as I like the matt texture, the rebuilt 'architectural prize winning designed' station hut has been primed as a test (I know the colour match is not great, but Spanish Humbrols do not do as they say on the tin ) and as a trial I tested some MIG weathering powders on the roof of the old warehouse behind. It seems to be patchy in places and I am not sure if that is greasy fingers from before, but I will revisit it.
     
    I realised only recently that the station hut should be in GWR chocolate and cream as per the Signal Cabin was prior to it's removal in 1981. The hut was recently repainted as part of the heritage works to the line...but I confess I am not a big fan of the retro station signs. It does however please me greatly that the line got a reprieve from the Beeching plan, on the grounds of the unsuitable roads in the area.
     
    I attach a few pics - I really need to continue by adding weeds, installing the fences to the lineside walkways and adding lots of trees...but I can feel the pull of Moorswater calling...
     
    * British Railways Illustrated Vol.2 No.2 December 1992 - January 1993
     

    View from Lamellion bridge end...those grease stains are annoying...

    Close up of dis-used warehouse...

    View from Coombe Junction end...primed colours will be corrected in due course...
  8. bcnPete

    cassettes...revisited...

    By bcnPete,

    Good evening,
     
    Two blog updates within a week
     
    Whilst trackwork mods and sparx has been ambling along in BCN, whilst in LDN I have been working on the replacement cassettes needed. To recap briefly, a simple folding affair was made using a wilko hinge, some thin timber sheet and some brass strips, as per this:
     

     
    Whilst the concept worked, they were too short as the 4 Cep needs a 600mm length cassette and to be honest, longer ones would mean other more interesting train formations. First job was to source some brass strips from 4D model shop and these had been machined at 305mm long - perfect!
     
    Secondly, having struggled with cutting out the 3mm timber before with a 10A blade, I wondered if I could make use of the laser cutter at my new place of work. Following induction, and a quick model for the current project I am working on, I prepared a drawing using Microstation Software. This was then set out to meet the retraints of the cutting bed and then this was sent to the laser. Paul the office model maker kindly let me have some offcuts of 3mm ply from the recycle bin. A quick screen grab using the phone to indicate how it looked.
     

     
    I then watched in awe as it cut out the pieces beautifully...and with a great smell of burnt 3mm plywood lingering afterwards! The small set of rectangles are for packing underneath the strips to give clearance to the folded hinges.
     

     

     

     
    These were then taken home and assembled over the last few nights. Its slow work as I need to leave the sides to set with PVA overnight before tackling the brass but am trying not to rush it. This evening I glued the brass strip using yellow Zap adhesive as an alternative to araldite which seems to take ages to set.
     
    Finally, a few pics of it completed. It now needs a bolt through the ends as before to keep it together once folded and the electrical connection between the middle. Am thinking this time to just hard wire that rather than my insect like rail thingys from last time. Apologies for the picture colour at the end...the Landladys floor is a bit highly varnished in places
     

     

     

     

     
    1 down...5 to go...
     
    That's all for this week I think...tootle pip.
  9. bcnPete

    ice and a slice...

    By bcnPete,

    Back again...
     
    The ice of course refers to my Gin Tonic cooler...but unfortunately the slice doesn't refer to the lemon...
     
    Having decided to try and remove the PVA first thing this evening (the white patch became worse when I prodded it so I figured Neils method would be fruitless) I proceeded to scrap away with the scalpel...and take a slice out of my finger in the first five minutes...I wouldn't mind but I hadn't even drunk from my GinTonic yet
     
    Anyway...PVA now removed and I took the opportunity to fill some gaps between the water base and quayside (that I had thought the PVA would eventually cover) with some Humbrol model filler....duly slapped on and awaiting sanding and repainting for the third attempt at water.
     

     
    Humbrol model filler...strange stuff to work with...
     
    Next up the station building...it just had to go...although the previous one has been kept to help scale off some dimensions.
     
    I have decided to retry with 1mm white artists card onto which I will (I think) next apply a layer of perspex with the windows...and then apply postcard thickness layers of card to build up the detail...if I can control my patience, I may try to paint some of the elements before placing on the model.
     
    This time I have cut out the openings, made a base and the whole thing seems a little squarer and not twisted as the other one became.
     
    I feel a lot happier working in card again I must say - mojo partially restored and I hope to keep it stoked again...
     

     
    This time I can add a close up again...
     
    Finally...it's goodnight from me...and goodnight from him...
     

     
    The other ice and a slice...
     
    Pete
  10. bcnPete

    this and that...

    By bcnPete,

    Good morning,
     
    Progress has been a little set back of late having lost this week to Man flu some kind of 'cold weather induced' sickness.
     
    However, finally brought some paints (and a decent tiny paintbrush) for painting the station building. Armed with a screen-grab of MP's visit to KoL on my phone I tried to best match up the different greys and the blue from the Humbrol rack of tins in one of the model shops. Not sure how popular Humbrol paints are in Spain...but some of the colours on the lids were coated in a layer of dust...so a little coughing and spluttering later to reveal the hidden colours, I purchased a few tins.
     
    It struck me whilst painting some of the station last night how small 2mmFS is...and once again, I questioned my eyesight and whether I am really suited to this scale of work. I think it will take a few passes with the brush going over, touching in, re-touching, re-re-touching until the various colours look right. Only then will I start the window/door construction. Its looking crude still, so I haven't done the cruel close up.
     
    The Harbour wall has now had base coats of grey and green applied. These will be added to in the next few weeks to represent more grime etc and then add details.
     
    The water (which had the PVA stripped) has now been repainted again and ready to commence the first of many PVA layers.
     
    You may be interested to hear that although my pre-ordered Farish Blue/grey 101 DMU and 4CEP arrived yesterday at the same time (a tad overwhelming ) both were run in last night, they have been packed away in their boxes so as not to distract from this layout. Why is he buying a Southern emu as his layouts are BR ScR / BR WR? Don't ask...
     
     
    That's about all really. Kicking this sickness thing into touch gradually and now off for a long weekend in Rome to visit my brother-in-law, so I hope to come back refreshed, topped up with linguine and ready to start the final push on Kyle.
     
    Ciao...
     

  11. bcnPete

    we spray to grey...

    By bcnPete,

    Good evening,
     
    Just a small update to end the week.
     
    The next level of detail has been added to the station building. Slithers of evergreen strip have been used to create the verticals and framing to doors and windows.
     
    Windows will be (I think) formed of individual 'cut to fit' clear perspex with a paper or thin plasticard frame mounted on top. I would like to have gone the etch route, but I have one eye on the clock as I would like to keep the project moving until christmas time and seeing as its almost November that equates to about 16 modelling slot evenings for me.
     
    I then aim to get back on CJ-M in 2012, allowing this to fulfill its role as a mini operable layout with small detailed fleet of rolling stock...errr...most of which is still in flat pack etch format
     
    I have given the station building the requisite misting of grey primer to see how it fairs. The roof tiling will probably be strips of paper overlaid. I am now considering revisiting the colour scheme and perhaps will finish it in cream with all timber joinery picked out in green. The blue I think represents Kyle of later years, whereas I will sort of pitch mine early eighties, with the Kyle of Lochalsh blue sign...which I believe Michael Palin has hanging on his garden wall
     
    I attach a few pics (terrible light as its been persisting it down here) of it having its grey mist coat and a little stock as garnish...where's Bryn's tasty grubby class 24 when you need it?
     
    Have a good weekend all...
     

     
    Class 24 arrives on parcels...
     

     
    And a little more zoomed in...platform due to be resurfaced and will close the gap...
     

     
    Farish GUV rewheeled and with DG's awaiting collection...
  12. bcnPete
    Update - Probably getting a bit late to say Happy New Year now...but its the first 2011 blog entry so HNY all.
     
    Was having trouble finding a way back into modelling after a 3 week break away from the workbench and despite a nice short rake of new Bachfar grey cement PCA's arriving the other week, I was still not in the right mood.
     
    To go off at a tangent, I tried to rephotograph parts of the layout today as the second part of my write up is due in the 2mm Mag and unfortunately most of the shots I sent the Ed were either out of focus or of smallish resolution that they would be hard to reproduce.
     
    So, armed with a new mini tripod and a few helpful tips from Chris Nevard, I took a few shots which I hope will be more acceptable and I thought I would just share a few of them on my blog (as I had deleted my gallery last year after Andy and the Mods started the culling process) What it did make me realise, is that I have to get a wiggle on with the rolling stock, as short of awaiting Dapol's 121 Bubble car, the main elements will be 25 and 37's on clay trains and my first 37 still awaits renumbering and weathering.
     

     
    This shot is what I mean by highs and lows...I am really hoping to try and capture the scale between Lamellion Bridge and the 150ft high Moorswater viaduct...
     

     
    Seen again with the 37 inching its way on return after dropping off clay hoods (cheeky way of saying I have not built all 18 yet )
     

     
    The Bachfar 37 does look more convincing since being lowered a tad on the bogies...
     

     
    And disappearing as seen from the other side of Lamellion bridge...
     
    EDIT: I do really need to make a start on the trees for this board now...
     
    Also, I have spent the last two nights working on the cladding for Moorswater dries but I will wait until its a bit further progressed before I photograph it.
     
    Its good to be back
  13. bcnPete
    Those not wishing to see something downbeat...please avert your eyes now...
     
    I guess it was only a matter of time before the mojo would suffer a dent again...after managing to stoke it high through the summer, thanks to the diorama competition and then straight onto Kyle for a 3 month 'make-over'...it was on the cards at some time...and I guess a few set backs have fuelled it.
     
    First up, the water (again) Having re stripped the PVA layers off, repaired and redone the quayside wall, repainted the water again, I started the slow process of building up the layers of glue....applying thinly after reading a few stories. Three coats on, it was going fine and although not resembling water yet I was prepared to hang in for the long haul as I believe Mickey had said he had applied 30 coats to get his water effect on another thread.
     
    Then...disaster struck ...I awoke one morning last week to find a patch which had gone white. On closer inspection I now realise that it must have been one of the verticals on the quayside came loose and its movement was enough to affect the glue at the base surrounding it, lifting it to create a very shallow bubble...
     
    The defence calls evidence No.1...
     

     
    Big time unimpressed
     
    So, I think I will scrape it all off and I may even go back to applying some gloss varnish layers instead. I think the PVA method probably works very well but if it is in a situation where it can be knocked or there is some movement adjacent, then perhaps its not the right approach for me.
     
    Secondly, after applying a few more coats of paint to the station building, I decided it looks c**p. You will note I have been careful in my previous close ups of it until now as the plasticard was not going the way I had hoped and I was caught between shall I go on and try and make the best of it....or scrap it? Andy (of the St Ruth blog) made some nice comments of recent on my last post but I have now reached the stage that my build method/approach is wrong and I am not sure I have the enthusiasm to carry on with the building as it is presently.
     
    I did manage to paint the chairs rust colour the other night, when I gave up on the station building but you will see the soft focus comes in to play with the station building again
     
    The defence calls evidence No.2...
     

     
    Track weathering has begun...but it really needs an airbrushing of black all over now to depict late 70's early 80's...
     
    I think I will reconsider redoing the station building but using card...my preferred modelling medium...
     
    So....as usual for me...step back...grab a lemon, a handful of ice and perfume a tonic water with a few drops from the bottle of Bombay Sapphire...
     
    Pete
  14. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    Work has been progressing as and when I can mid week and weekends but with not long to go I start to wonder what compromises may need to be made to get things done...
     
    With the laser cutter at work still out of action until some time next week (projected) I have trying to progress other bits and pieces. Last weekend I started to lay the pcb sleepers to make the connecting lines for the fiddleyard boards - slow progress and I will need to crack on with this the coming weekend...in between putting in enough hours with my family...
     
    I order some brass square section, rod and plasticard I sections from 4D modelshop and this weekend I will start the Plan B construction of the station canopy with a view of trying to complete it next week.
     
    A Ratio relay box has been added to the end of the platform as of the prototype and I have a small 25 speed restriction sign to add when it gets painted.
     
    The buffer stops received a red line applied with a fine red permanent marker...not the easiest thing to do with the layout stood on its end and also some painting of the rails was undertaken although this will need to be examined in natural light this weekend as working in the evening in my room digs is not the greatest environment. Excess paint needs to be removed from the running surface visible in some shots below.
     
    I have also managed to install the third rail now too. Following my trial previously I have threaded easitrac chairs to rail and then trimmed them as tight as possible to just leave the rail clasp. The sleepers were then marked with a permanent marker (I used a spacing of 6 sleepers) and small splices of a white plasticard rod were added attached with cyno. The rail was then attached with cyno to these and awaits painting. I might keep the white appearance of the mount and weather it as I recall living in Sussex seeing the third rail supports with the large white bases lying besides the track.
     
    A few photos to demonstrate...
     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    That's about it for the moment...14 days to go...
  15. bcnPete
    Update
     
    Firstly, a big thanks to all the helpful comments and the PM received regarding my inlaid disaster in my last blog.
     
    I had already made my mind up before I posted it, that it had to go...the questions were, when and how and what to replace it with?
     
    Earlier today, armed with a screwdriver I began to scrape the clay away at the edges of the track. Despite all those cracks it had actually set rock solid and was difficult to remove. Enter the Hammer to the equation...and the scraping became more forceful...however it was starting to damage the track in places
     
    My initial plan of removing the clay and leaving the track to allow a new surface of plasticard/clay/filler etc was falling apart...if the replacement apron looked good, but the trains ran badly, then what was the point of the exercise?
     
    So, I decided to remove the track up to the turnout and redo it to ensure that trains would run satisfactorily again. This was all going well until I started the final chipping away at the turnout...and you guessed it...more damage...so the turnout had to go too
     
    Here's a photo of the current state of play tonight...
     

     
    I have reinstated the buildings as the board looked a bit lost without them!...
     
    So now I need to reconstruct a new turnout and the associated track in the sidings, but hey, its very fashionable to rip up 2mmFS track at the moment...Missy was doing it recently on Highclere....and then Kris too on Avonwick......so now me....Get in
     
    Blood cleaned, sweat mopped....and now ready for those beers
     
    Pete
  16. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    Work has been plodding away on the layout of late but haven't had time to do an update so thought I would take the opportunity this b/h weekend.
     
    I had made a mini target programme of activities for Feb/Mar/Apr and May but this has now been converted into a final 'to do' list as the exhibition is two weeks yesterday
     
    This update concentrates on rolling stock, particularly locos which span the eras. I have been doing some research and found pics of Kyle of all locos modelled - essential to be able to whip out that photo at an exhibition should the question arise
     
    For the early part I will use 24113 which is the Farish model as featured previously on my blog - this has mainly had a DG coupling fitted at one end and very little other work to it. This will see some overlap with the class 26's and then the class 26's will overlap with the class 37's. The 26 previously modelled is 26038 which has the two headlights at the front - again, apart from adding the DG at one end, little extra work has been done to this one.
     
    To supplement this 26027 has been modelled to feature the tablet catcher. This is using the excellent TPM etch from Bernard and involves taking a knife to the body and small file using the template provided. This loco also had a small BR blue logo at the cab ends rather than the middle so nice bit of quirkiness there.
     
    And something of a rarity at Kyle, a class 27. I couldn't find any pics and an excuse to buy the Dapol model until Gary (of Glenuig) showed me a pic of 27108 at Kyle - result! Perfect excuse to have one.
     
    The other loco which has been worked on is a 37/4 in large logo livery. This is the recent Farish model re numbered to 37414. This is awaiting weathering and isn't a rat so couldn't form part of this entry!
     
    The locos have all had a DG fitted at one end, with pipes etc to one end and as many that can fit around the DG at the other end without compromising the movement. They have been re numbered using the excellent rail-tec transfer range. Some basic weathering with powders has been undertaken although I will try and refine this a little more. Now need to get back on the coaching stock, parcels and wagon formations.
     
    Here's a few pics - sorry they are a bit dark - the fascia light is on but I was shooting against the living room window
     

    26038...
     

    26027...
     

    26027...tablet catcher left hand end...
     

    27108...
     

    head to head...
     

    doubleheaded extravagance...
     

    highly unlikely but couldn't resist all three together...
     

    yikes
     
    Comments welcome as usual.
     
    Pete
  17. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Just a quick update to say that work on the layout has now seized ready for the one day exhibition at BHMRC tomorrow.
     
    Today the layout was erected on its support structure and last minute jobs ranging from works to the front fascia including a few descriptive images and storyboard to the rear fascia track plan diagram with notation for the magnets, isolating sections and turnouts - old school stuff this
     
    Here's a few pics and I will report back after the show on whether Kyle will get to stretch its legs further afield or its a disaster and will get early retirement
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    Many thanks to Don, David, Mickey and Mark for their PM's of good wishes - will respond when I can.
     
    Thanks, Pete
  18. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    Here's a welcome to my new project which I eluded to on my recent Kyle blog entry. I say new, but actually it's an idea that first surfaced in 2009 whilst I was building Kyle in a box file. It was based upon building a similiar small extract from the prototype but centred on Thurso with the idea it could be attached to the other end of the Fiddleyard. Whilst the trains would not physically run through as they were two different lines, there would be overlaps with rolling stock that could work with both and the two layouts together would double the amount of movements at an exhibition. The idea was sketched and even a small white card mock up made for a box file before I decided to scrap it, possibly due to its appearance of too much track in a short space.
     
    Here's the original thoughts first posted on RMWeb 2009...
     

     

     

     
    The idea resurfaced last weekend whilst exhibiting Kyle. There is something very compelling about these Scottish lines, especially in the BR blue period and Thurso like Wick has one of those delightful train sheds at the end of the platform in addition to some freight interest.
     
    At first I thought I would unplug Kyle and clip Thurso on to the Fiddle yard which meant reuse of this element including the lighting, however after preparing 3 options as sketches, I decided that the third option is the most interesting albeit not the most straightforward option. It involves removing the bay platform and allowing the viewer to see across the platform rather than facing onto it as per Kyle. The run-a-round loop will be included as well as a single siding in front of the goods shed which will be modelled in slight relief in front of the back scene. The entry to the fiddleyard will be masked by the over bridge which will include some grassed banking.
     
    A front fascia board will be formed to include integral lighting and the idea is to cut a letterbox slot allowing a view into the train shed and possibly a view at the end either through another opening or left open as per Kyle as per these initial sketches...
     

     

     
    It will be first built as a standalone layout which will connect onto the existing slightly modified fiddle yard so it can have its own life however it can later form a combined composition with Kyle which is why I will work to the same constraints of depth and height. It will also be DCC operation with possibly sound too as I think it's time to start embracing the future Would mean rewiring Kyle too no doubt...but little by little.
     
    As mentioned in my recent post whilst I thought I would restart my Coombe Junction - Moorswater layout, the latest planning was leading it to be a 4.5m linear layout if I wanted to do it properly and I just don't have the time, space or money for that at present. It's as much as managing my own expectations too and taking on something small but hopefully interesting that will keep me enthused as well as hopefully producing something exhibitable without the need for van hire!
     
    Incidentally, this blog is called Thurso 722 as during my research I noted from a caption in a Thurso picture in a John Vaughan retrospective on class 37's, that Thurso is 722 miles from London...which is where the layout is being built
     
    As always, comments welcome.
     
    Pete
  19. bcnPete
    Evening peeps,
     
    Following hints in the last post that I was going to make some alterations and having got the week off for 1/2 term to thin out the garage it was natural that a suitable slot would be allocated to do some modelling. Still brimming with 2mmFS mojo after the AGM and the news that the Dapol 08 has slipped again meant an opportunity to revisit the Thurso mock up.
     
    As noted in the last update, I was dithering about the treatment of the end with the train shed between letterbox and end return. I also felt the platform was too wide and comments suggested that more of the goods shed modelled would add depth. Initially I was worried that this would mean too much track, but having laid it out I am happier with this configuration. Besides, as with most of my models it's an extra of a prototype to try and catch the flavour...and on the real thing, there's a lot of track in the arrangement
     
    The first move was to reduce the platform width and bring the train shed (without the side projection) to the edge of the board. The side and rear of the train shed will be formed in clear perspex but I will etch onto the glass the windows/openings...this will give a sense of scale but is also like an imaginary cut through the building...architectural license card played now
     
    This also helps 'anchor the corner' and allows the second move is which is to remove the end fascia and cantilever the upper fascia corner. This will provide a nice counter to the end treatment of the Kyle scenic board as well as allow views down the end of the layout.
     
    Final move is the introduction of the siding through the goods shed, which due to the width now allows the track to pass through. Whilst I cannot get all the goods shed in, it has a more significant presence than it did previously.
     
    The arrangement of the two turnouts are positioned to allow a 3 coach train to be runaround without restricting the traverser movements...one of Kyle's shortcomings but was necessary to keep the overall length down.
     
    The mock up has been modified using quick n dirty methods of cut and paste and patch. The key to this is not being too precious I think...better to carve around in card then the finished article. I have laid out some stock to help give a sense of it...overall I am a lot happier with it now and it should give better operating potential too...again another counter to Kyle which is fairly limited.
     
    Thanks to Mark Tatlow for sending me some work in progress CAD drawings of Wick train shed...which is very similiar to Thurso and will be used to check dimensions.
     
    Here's a few pics to illustrate...
     

     
    sketch shows new corner arrangement with cantilever and clear perspex...
     

     
    overall looking towards the train shed...
     

     
    from the train shed showing corner treatment...
     

     
    mini google earth showing new turnout arrangement...
     

     
    turnout position allows runaround without obstructing fiddle yard traverser...
     

     
    just works for 3 x Mk II's / Mk I's...
     

     
    trains can stop just outside the shed before the change in platform level...
     
    Pete
  20. bcnPete

    one for my bucket list...

    By bcnPete,

    Afternoon all,
     
    Worry not...this is not another project...just yet...but an idea I have had for a layout for a long time and during my recent track building crisis (now over ) I decided to build the mock up to test it and get it out of my system - having done so, it will drop back into due pecking order for my layout ideas.
     
    I did briefly consider it as a competition entry but it fits with neither the MRJ or 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee criteria so it will be built to the dimensions as planned.
     
    For a long time, I have wanted to capture my memories of standing on the ends of the platform at Exeter St Davids’ during family holidays west. Usually a day would be spent on the west end watching movements up and down the incline. What I loved was the diversity of motive power in those days (most of which I have accumulated over the years of 2mm modelling) and how busy the station was.
     
    As I get older, I am more attracted to building smaller layouts due to available time, space and money constraints. There is also less chance of boredom too - hat duly doffed to all those with large layouts over many years. I prefer extracts of real prototypes with a degree of compromise to include all the elements so as people can recognise them.
     
    My idea is to use the 1/2 station concept and try and capture a slice of the action across the platforms on a typical busy day at ESD. Ironically, I have chosen the eastern end as I felt it was more interesting. It includes part of the bay platform, the goods shed opposite as a back drop and the rather iconic towers on the platforms supporting the footbridge and (I recall) containing the lifts. The platform canopy partially obscures the view so wil be etched at work. Think brute trollies, semaphore signals and BR signage.
     
    The dimensions are 450mm by 300mm depth and uses my same dimensions of fascia as per my recent layouts. This works in terms of viewing letterbox and lighting. One other idea is to have the layout mounted at eye level so you look through and across the platforms - one thing I am uncomfortable about with this is it means it’s not fully inclusive so people in wheelchairs can’t view it. One to ponder more.
     
    The main concept is to have something always moving, be it a HST arriving, parcels wagons being shunted into the bay platform, a DMU departing, a short freight being tripped through the central road or a loco hauled passenger train...oh how I miss those days! Locos would be DCC and ideally sound chipped. No turnouts feature so can all be built in easitrac so if rewheeling gets expensive I can be selective.
     
    The Fiddleyard would be based upon those of KoL using mini shelf runners and a viewing slot to get a cheeky glimpse of the rolling stock.
     
    The other idea is that it can be fairly timeless so although based upon my early eighties memories, it could be wound back to include the hydraulics - this necessitated a rather reckless purchase this week of a Warship and a Western...and lovely models they are too
     
    Here’s a few images, early sketches and pics of the mock up built the other week whilst I was off work. Whilst it lacks depth of field from my phone camera shots and some stock is straight from the box, a hope it conveys a sense of what I am hoping to achieve which will one day give me a chance to run my fairly extensive collection of mainline rolling stock. The new Dapol 50 would be a great addition...when it appears
     

    Extract plan of area to be captured...
     

    Early sketch calculated dimensions based on stock lengths...
     

    Plan shows how FY’s would be crammed with stock...
     

    3D sketch assuming LED lighting (since replaced and as per my current layout fascias)
     

    Front ends...The John Vaughan books always inspire me...
     

    Early ideas have the scenic section moving not the FY’s...
     

    Overall plan view of mock up...
     

    Front fascia detailed as per my other layouts...
     

    View across platforms...
     

    Class 50 on failed HST...
     

    Always loved to see class 46’s arrive...
     

    Class 33 from the Waterloo Exeter...
     

    Backdated to include hydraulics...
     

    Again, another view across the platforms...
     
    Overall I am very happy with the test mock up. Even at the paper track stage it excites me enough that with a small but well detailed scene with a lot of depth it could prove an interesting, albeit unusual exhibition layout. There should also be some nice photographic opportunities using a variety of rolling stock.
     
    As I said at the start, I have done enough now to test the idea so will shortly be back on Thurso once I have the track sorted and built for Meeth.
     
    As usual, any comments welcomed...
     
    Thanks, Pete
  21. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Small update as I managed to get all the fascia cut at work over a couple of evenings - did a dry assembly and needed to cut a few more bits again.
     
    This morning I decided to take the plunge and apply PVA to the 3mm ply pieces with the aim of completing one Lack board today. 50% done and am happy so far - the cross bracing is my usual approach for my recent layouts using 50mm outriggers at the rear to strengthen the cantilever - now the PVA has dried it is all pretty rigid now.
     
    You will note there is a small gap as in hindsight I should have added an extra couple of millimetres onto the Lack board overall dimensions but I can fill this so I did not let that halt progress. I also have cut back the rails on the end with the solid panel as I intend to get a bespoke cut 4mm mirror installed to try and see if this encourages some perspective of the shed - let’s see if this is successful or not.
     
    Next weekend I hope to complete the other end so they can butt together and then it’s lighting next.
     
    Here’s a few pics of today’s progress...
     

    Components laid out on DRT...
     

    Overall front on view...
     

    End view...had to build in that track was already laid so could not have projections at ends gaining 6mm...
     

    Other end view...
     

    Rear view showing outriggers..more will be added...
     

    With dries mock up in place...building covers programming track and access hole...
     
    As always, comments welcome...
     
    Pete
  22. bcnPete
    Update,
     
    Finally got around to finishing the basic roof on the old dries building last night. When I looked further at the construction, I realised it was the same as the lower panels, and that the shadow was infact concealing small purlins which aligned with the lower ones...so a bit more tedium I have also lined the rooflight openings ready to receive some glass panels which will be added after the painting/weathering commences.
     
    When I placed the final piece of the roof in place I realised that it was a little untrue in places...but after a while, I quite liked it as the unevenness is a characteristic of the old dries building (wonky freight lines and old buildings seem to suit my modelling )
     
    The obligatory misting of grey primer to reveal all the errors and areas that need a bit of attention swifly followed.
     
    The next mission...is the inset track...so I had better do a little retesting first before it all gets covered up.
     

    Looking down the roof...
     

    From below...you won't get this view from the layout though...
     

    From the entrance to the dries area...
     

    Looking down showing the differing types of building...
     
    One man on a lonely platform...Ah...we fade to grey, fade to grey...
     
    Pete
  23. bcnPete
    Update,
     
    Work on the 37's has stopped briefly as I have now managed to source a small modelshop in barcelona (conveniently part of an architectural modelmakers) which stocks evergreen sheeting...amongst other goodies
     
    This week has seen the model railway room home office rearranged which with some shuffling of the IKEA Lack shelves, has elevated the position of the 4mm layout (in slow progress for my sons) to allow me to store the coombe junction moorswater boards in their correct configuration complete with the removable backscenes attached...in short I can now stand on a chair and see the layout in its entirety without having to set it out balanced on the dining room table.
     

    Here's a view looking from said chair...it's lodged between my sons 4mm layout above and our architectural models below...please don't zoom in on my shocking wiring...
     
    Back to the dries. The first job was to complete the base roof cladding before I started the roof vent details. Once I laid the final pieces and drew out the positions of the vents and rooflights, I then considered cutting a hole where the rooflights were. I had not intended to do much on the interiors as much will be hidden from view, but I thought it might be interesting as there may be some nice shadows cast through the (grubby stained) windows to below. By chance the postions of the rooflights did not interfere with my intermediate supporting walls, so I started to cut out the windows insitu, through the plastic sheeting and the card beneath. I thought it was going to go horribly wrong...but surprising, armed with a brand new 10A blade, the swear box rermained free of contributions during this process.
     

    The openings cut insitu into the roof...
     
    I then started to construct the first level of the vent which is raised above the roofline and (I am guessing) provides a bit of cross flow ventilation to the clay dries stores. Once again I used the evergreen plastic sheeting but this has been spaced off the roof by small individual plastic struts cut from some spare plasticard to represent the timber structure.
     

    The rafters were cut, marked out on the rear of the sheet and then attached with MEK PAK.
     
    This was tackled in 2 pieces due to the length of the evergreen sheeting but I am hoping that final painting and weathering will help disguise some joints. This was attached to the roof using MEK PAK and the next job will be the high level vent running along the ridge of the roof and the rooflights.
     

    Overall plan shot with vent in place...
     

    Seen from the end which will be most viewed on the layout...
     

    Seen from then end which will be tight against the backscenes...
     
    Hoping to get another shot of modelling in perhaps at the weekend to try and finish the main parts of the roof.
     
    As usual, any comments welcome, Pete
  24. bcnPete
    Evening all, 
     
    As per Andy’s blog update, there was a 2mmFS Supermeet in Tutbury yesterday. I have posted a few thoughts and photos from the day on the exhibition thread so here’s an update on Kyle as part of the show.
     
    Took the day off Friday to run some tests and check my two 37’s ran ok as had just received them back from Coastal DCC - Kevin had done a great job hard wiring the lights and also introducing a stay alive to them. In trying to reduce the amount of ‘stuff’ I usually take to exhibitions I decided to knock up a quick A4 workbench as my A3 one is a bit overpowering to travel with...and slides around the car during hard cornering 
     
    Armed with a brand new A4 cutting mat and some scraps of foamboard I fashioned this which fits neatly in one of the plastic crates.
     

     
    Below, is a small drawer inset, a remnant idea from my Moorswater viaduct RMWeb competition entry...allows me to be selective in tools and leave the kitchen sink back home!
     

     
    I set off from London around 2pm for the scheduled 2hr 45 journey but our Tom Tom spat me off the motorway into this...
     

     
    ...lots of hard braking to avoid tractors and farm vehicles ensued  Finally I was back on a motorway around Brum and arrived around 6:05pm 4 hours after I set off...nice timing in fact as the Village hall opened at 6:00pm 
     
    Arrival in Tutbury was marked by seeing the castle on the hill, where apparently Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner about 500 years ago...
     

     
    The layout was fairly quick to set up and I ran some quick tests - I apologised to my immediate neighbours (the superb Lightermans Yard) that I had some sound fitted engines and would be providing some background music for the Saturday  I brought along some of my recent mock ups (Loch Awe and Exeter St David’s) and also my work in progress DJLC entry Meeth to get some feedback.
     

     

     
    Some new traversers have also been built with the idea they can be used on a number of differing layouts.
     

     
    The evening was capped off by meeting Bryn, Pixie and Matt (who had timed a visit over from New Zealand for this) for a few beers and a curry...
     

     

     
    The next morning after a hearty breakfast, the track was cleaned again, stock set up and the event kicked off at 10:30am. A very nice relaxed informal atmosphere was had, wandering amongst the layouts, demo stands, 2mm Association shop and ‘N’ Brass stand. So good to meet old and new friends and put some names to faces. 
     
    The tractors performed well and overall I was pleased with the running quality aside from a couple of derailments and the usual DG coupling alignment issues...must get around to re set all the heights. I think I may also dispense with the Dapol knuckle couplers between coaches as they are quite rigid and can sometimes help derail stock.
     

     

     

     
    Matt kindly helped out with cover and at 6 foot 10” I was slightly worried that he would have back ache from stooping over to see the DG’s had worked  
     

     

     
    Overall I received some very nice comments on the layout and also some great feedback and interest on Meeth and the mock ups. It was a great gathering and am very pleased I attended as I came away very inspired.
     
    Many thanks to John Aldrick and all the others who organised the event. I look forward to the 2mmFS 60 year gathering in Derby next summer
     
    Pete
     

     
     
  25. bcnPete
    Update - RIP Mike Reid, fellow Spanish resident whose game show I grew up with. De-light-ful...
    Have been doing the sparks for Board 3 the last two nights to try and get the moorswater runaround working and I confess electrics is not my speciality. One would think that such a simple layout to wire with DC and a few isolating switches could not give many problems however I lost over an hour and a half of modelling time last night trying to solve a short, which in the end came down to a dodgy slide switch - on the upside, the swear box has been replenished and can help fund the recent CDA extravagance.
    During the summer I had to retire my trusty Gaugemaster handheld controller and I purchased a Morley Vesta following reading some good reviews. There are a few nice touches to it and although I will probably in theory only ever have one diesel in steam it does come with 2 x 2M handheld walkabout controllers, handy for a 3.3m long layout. Initial testing seems to be nice and responsive however a switched centre off would be nice as a few locos have flirted with the edge of the baseboard during testing purposes
    In summary, I now have a runaround working, and I hoping to work on the mini traverser tonight and then try and post a short video sometime to demonstrate the DG coupling at the end of the line using the permanent concealed magnets.
    Pete
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