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bcnPete

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Blog Entries posted by bcnPete

  1. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    The blog title eludes to the inbound fast approaching, 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee event the weekend of 18/19th June in Derby - rescheduled from the original date due to COVID.
     
    I shall be visiting as a punter but wanted to bring something to the occasion as per the last one, the Golden Jubilee which was held in Oxford and I flew back from Barcelona for it. At that one I showed a small scale model of my proposed Coombe Junction - Moorswater layout which signalled my return to the hobby after a 20 year break and launched me from N to 2mmFS.
     
    Fast forward 10+ years and I have since returned from BCN to live in the UK again, the layout unfortunately had to be scrapped due to downsizing of space and also last month I moved apartments. Whilst sorting through boxes as part of the move I found two bubbled wrapped extracts from the original layout - part of the clay dries buildings and the slice of Moorswater viaduct. The viaduct was in three pieces, top and two legs and I had the idea during this BH break to perhaps reassemble the diorama that I built and entered into the RMWeb 2011 challenge competition. Looking back I was pleased to recall I had come 3rd overall, which I had forgotten.
     
    So my idea is to recreate the diorama again but this time finish it off with the handrail etches that Steve ‘Pixie’ Nicholls of this Parish kindly did for me all those years ago but arrived in the post due past the competition deadline. I am also going to redo and simplify the base and possibly make a perspex box enclosure…studio model shop permitting 😉 I have just under two weeks to complete this as I am travelling up to Derby the Friday afternoon before the event. I also need to contact John, the exhibition organiser and see if there is a spare place to display it…otherwise I will bring it and keep it in the car boot should anyone want to have a look at it!
     
    Here’s how the original one ended up back in 2011…
     

     

     

     
    The original featured a back scene, built in lighting fascia and also a cheeky stock box at the base 😜 For this model, the back scene and the fascia will be omitted. I was always unsure about what height the back scene should terminate at, as essentially this was a test piece for my CJM layout which had a backscene of approximately 300mm high. 
     
    So firstly the base was set out and again, this was based on the dimensions of an IKEA Lack shelf which many of my layouts use. 300mm wide x 260mm depth. I contemplated getting the mini IKEA Lack of those dims but the Perspex case idea scuppered that.
     

    Mapped out on the base…
     
    Next up is Pixies incredible fine etches…which will finally get used.
     

     
    The contours were then mapped out in card and foamboard off cuts and glued in with PVA glue. 
     

     

     
    Then this morning the base was covered with a layer of Sculptamold. Lovely stuff and easy to work with, even after 8+ years, as most of my layouts tend to be quite urban. 
     

     

     
    This will be left to dry for a few days before getting a light sand and a coating of burnt umber paint prior to grass application.
     
    That’s all for now folks - as always, comments welcomed…
     
    Pete
     
     

  2. bcnPete

    The dries the limit...Part II

    By bcnPete,


    General
    Evening all - time for a quick update.
    Work has been progressing on a number of fronts namely the dries buildings and the rolling stock. Firstly I have been gradually applying water based paints to both the buildings following the grey primer coat. These are being built up and then weathering powders are applied on top. I am working on them ‘offsite’ in a foamboard enclosure to prevent them falling over as before and breaking all the gutters off 
     
    The first building (the shallower one) has been glued in place and I will continue final weathering including dusting the whole lot down with white powder...a bit of talcum will be rather welcum...
     
    The second building still needs a bit more work before I commit to glueing in position. I will then bed them in at the base, add some weeds and grass, creaks in the concrete apron etc.
     
    Secondly, I also made a start on some weathering. The 08 had the piston rods painted yellow (hated the red ones!) and it has been renumbered to 08488 which was a regular down at Wenford. Thanks to John Peck of Precision Labels for prepping the transfers for me. I have then applied some first layers of weathering powders and some black paint.
    Whilst not finished, it’s amazing the difference it makes now to a spot of shunting at the dries.
     
    I have also made a start on the Skytrex van using some weathering powders. Again, taking the edge off these out of the box models really makes a difference. Underframe will be next and also trying to tone down the Skytrex hoodies which are a tad plasticy. Next on the list is to start applying some paint to the Slaters BV kit.
     
    Attached are a few photos from various view points. I am experimenting with making a few short videos and editing them in iMovies. Once done I will upload a few.
     

    Overall shot...

    Starting to add colour and staining...

    Dapol renumbered 08488 (note out of the box Skytrex van in background)

    Skytrex van with some powders on the body...

    Van is deposited in the short spur...

    Clearance is just enough for a China clay wagon or the van...

    Need to bed the buildings in and finish weathering...

    Van awaiting unloading...

    Shuffling some China clay wagons around...

    Need to try and lose the plasticy nature of the wagons...

    Ready to depart from Wenford...
     
    That’s all for now...as always comments welcome...
     
    Pete
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  3. bcnPete

    The dries the limit...

    By bcnPete,

    Evening all,

    There has been little progress on Wenford since the last post but Rich Brummitt of this parish popped around yesterday afternoon for some matters 2mmFS...so it seemed a good chance to set the layout up and push the dark side of the senior scale...
     
    The layout also has a potential show invite for Wycrail 2021. It was 2022 and I thought yep, 3 years is possible...then I was told they have a slot for 2021...so I thought, why not...nothing like a deadline to focus the mind 
     
    One thing I have been looking at is the construction of the buildings...which look to be a mixture of stone with brick piers, with some openings later closed up with blockwork. I have bought some sample 7mm plastic sheets of each type recently at a show and like the track mockup I may make a small section to test.
     
    I am fortunate that a friend that I studied architecture with has a practice that submitted an entry for a competition to convert the dries to some accommodation a few years back. He kindly sent me the drawings (for my own use not publishing etc.) which were a set of PDF files. On here was a series of sections cut through the dries building. I have then imported the PDF sheets into CAD and drawn over them to create the basic forms to scale. I have used minimal lines to capture the profile including the roofs. 
     

     
    I then superimposed each of the sections on my CAD sections produced for the layout when I cut the fascias in 3mm plywood giving these two images...
     

     

     
    Obviously due to the narrowness of the Ikea lack shelves one of the buildings will be very low relief however I have a cunning plan to improve this...“so cunning you can brush your teeth with it”  More on that another time...
     
    I then used some photos and started to map out the elevations to get a feel for the number of openings which are either open or blocked up...I have been careful so the open ones do not show through the small opening and programming track at the mirror end! 
     

     
    These have then be crudely pasted on to the foamboard mock ups that are currently helping me gauge the scene. Here’s an overall shot and close up but excuse the bubbling/peeling off which may have been due to where they were stored.
     

     

     

     
    I am still pondering whether to make the building carcasses in 3mm ply or foamboard although am conscious I want to keep the weight down as the Lack shelves are noticeably heavier since the ply fascias were added...still manageable...but am not getting any younger 
     
    Finally, here’s a short video I took of Rich B getting to grips with the sound chipped 08. Despite the simple track plan, there was an hours worth of moving wagons around to leave one in the short spur. I think Rich enjoyed himself  I certainly did, just watching!
     

    As always, comments welcomed...
     
    Pete
     
  4. bcnPete
    Good afternoon,
     
    A quick update on last weekend and decisions going forward.
     
    Really enjoyed to exhibit at the Uckfield show last week, the first two day show for KoL...must admit I was knackered at work on Monday - might be better to take the Monday off in future rather than the Friday.
     
    Overall it didn't perform too badly and it received some nice comments from peopleseemingly fascinated by the fiddle yard and back scene...and the compactness. Saturday it performed better than the Sunday and only one point in the show on Sunday morning where the turnout at the end of the layout stopped running, I had to flip the scenic section of the layout on its side One of the drawbacks of the layout being built for box files was that all the wiring is trapped between the layout and support structure - in the end we think it might have been some fibreglass fibres trapped between the turnout blades Thanks to Nigel A and fellow operator Andy H for helping in sorting that one due to my lack of electrical prowess!
     
    Good to see Nigel and his rolling stock and as he suggested, the first kettle on Kyle - shame it didn't seem to see eye to eye with my Pictroller...which my Farish and Dapol blue boxes run nicely with. Good to also seem some fellow RMWebbers at the show too. Still one or two issues with DG's to resolve but I need to make a new jig and set them all to this - hope that irons that one out.
     
    Also received 2 potential invites to shows whilst there so just waiting formal follow up of these. Someone arrived on Sunday morning to tell me he had seen the layout on the Uckfield news website so nice bit of coverage there.
     

     
    I had previously decided that next year I would concentrate on rebuilding my CJM layout however after this weekend I was left with mixed feelings. At 4.4metres long it will be a bit of a beast and we don't really have space to accommodate that at present plus there were a lot of nice comments from the show about the size of the layout and the atmosphere that had been incorporated into a small space. Together with the support structure, legs, rolling stock and workbench it all takes quite a bit of space in our VW (clean diesel) Touran
     
    So with this in mind, I have decided to resurrect my previous idea to build an extract of Thurso, which will use the existing fiddle yard (slightly modified) and will keep within the constraints of Kyle so be 132mm wide. The length may be longer pending mapping out of the track plan. This will use very similar stock to Kyle, namely class 26's and 37's and some freight.
     
    Am quite excited about this and the idea is to try and improve upon my track building skills as well as make the break to DCC...a sound fitted class 37 will add an extra dimension, something that perhaps is lacking from Kyle.
     
    I have started sketching so expect a new blog, some sketches and mock ups to appear soon. Whilst I would still love to redo CJM, I think the compactness and time available to me at present makes this a more realistic proposal. Whilst a separate line to Kyle it could even be added to form a double ended layout giving a '2 for 1' option for shows, which was what my original sketch of a few years back had hinted at.
     
    Here's a few pictures from the show including some interlopers
     

     

     

     

     

     
    In other news, Kyle will feature in Model Rail next month on sale 19 November 2015 and I must say Chris Nevard has taken some fab pictures...
     

     
    Comments welcome as usual,
     
    Pete
  5. bcnPete
    Evening all and a very Happy Christmas to you,
     
    Have been chipping away at progress and almost ready to start scenic repairs again.
     
    The second turnout was installed in position yesterday having first gapped it, cleaned with Vim and then sprayed with a coat of primer...as before sky blue was all I had at hand
     
    One thing you will note is the backscene and also the ramp/bridge have been removed now. This was twofold, firstly the bridge railing was getting damaged and secondly the tie bar was sitting right beneath it so installation of the turnout aligning with two diverging roads at one end and the traverser board was difficult
     
    They have been set aside for repairs and reinstallation. The turnout was added, new wires added where necessary and the wire in tube has been replaced with new run partly as it fell in the next sleeper bay. Once levelled and aligned using work business card slithers, it was attached with superglue.
     
    This morning I got to run a few tests with the locos and most locos run through a lot smoother now including to the siding at the front. It looked a bit loco heavy at Kyle this morning during testing
     
    The wiring despite being simplified to DCC now is still a bit complicated for my liking involving lots of chocolate box connectors and 4/5 wires streaming from them ...before I tackle the scenics I might just take a look again at this with fresh eyes and see if I can install some busbars.
     
    Overall, a lot happier now and hope to do some more over the festive period.
     
    A couple of pics from earlier and vids if I uploaded correctly...
     

     

     

     

     

     
    Best wishes to you,
     
    Pete
  6. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Viewers alerted by wiring nightmares should avert their eyes now... As per usual with my blog entries they are a mix of positive and negative experiences but it’s all about the process and how we get there, right?
     
    This weekend I looked to test the turnout in situ before spraying and glueing in place. The loco ran smoothly up to the turnout and onto the frog area then kept shorting out...I swopped over wires and checked for gaps on the PCB...then it occurred to me that I had not gapped the tie bar made from a PCB sleepers turned on its side... Once this was sorted it ran through, but then shorted when the blades were switched the other way As you know, electrics are not my forte so I pondered whether to re-wire the layout from scratch. The main problem is the basic electrics were done 10 years ago as a DC layout and then modified more recently for DCC. So switched sections all add to the extra wires underneath.
     
    Now the fascia has been removed it’s not so easy to flip the layout upside down anymore so a few temporary card sides were cut to give a good surface to review the base. It really is a mish mash and although has been reliable at shows (bar the intermittent turnout) it is too complicated and am not sure why I compounded this by using about 6 different coloured wires!
     

    What a mess for such a simple layout!...
     
    So I pondered over lunch and a few glasses of white wine what to do. Decision was made. Strip out and renew as much as I can, but simplifying in the process. I will leave the DC capability but permanently wire the sections together. I also drew one of those wiring diagrams with the two coloured pens as a I tend to use blue and red these days for + and - and yellow for turnout frogs. This was drawn reversed so I can compare when the layout is upside down.
     

    Wiring diagram from below...
     
    I then took out the cutters to start snipping. It reminded me of that 70’s movie with Richard Harris (I think) where they had to defuse a bomb...”cut the blue wire...no, cut the red wire” ...So I cut most of them and then labelled as I went along with simple blue and red tags as to what I think they ought to be.
     

    Wires cut and tagged ready to be rationalised...
     
    That’s pretty much where I left it as the light was fading and I think I need to start this with fresh eyes and a few hours run at it. Hopefully next weekend I can make a start. It means a slight step back in programme however in the long run it seems to be the right thing to do as I have quite a few shows lined up for 2019 and some in 2020.
     
    Hopefully once it’s complete, the layout will run a lot smoother and the simplified underside can match the simplified top side!
     

    Hard to believe that a layout with just two turnouts could be a mess of spaghetti underneath!...
     
    As always, comments welcome...
     
    Pete
  7. bcnPete

    kyle - makeover III...

    By bcnPete,

    Evening all,
     
    Something I mentioned in my last blog update was that I wanted to replace the turnout(s) which had intermittent faults. The more troublesome being the turnout in the station having power issues as well as the odd derailment when running around. The other suffers the occaisional derailments when reversing wagons.
     
    Mark Fielder of this parish kindly offered to help me as viewers of my blogs know my track building skills need improvement Seeing as how I took this week off for 1/2 term, a day was arranged with Mark and yesterday we started by first analysing the problem. Essentially no power was getting to part of the frog area so generally the 37’s made it across it but the 26’s and 24’s were temperamental. It had to go rather than remove offending material.
     
    We started with an overview of turnout building in PCB and rail as the previous turnouts I recall were built as a hybrid first easitrac kits with a few interlaced PCB sleepers. This time I wanted to use all PCB. We used the 2mm Association jigs and began with the straight rail, followed by constructing the V and then dropped this in after adding the curved rail. At this point I was happy for Mark to take the lead and I watch as the frog was always my downfall. Mark had lots of great tips and techniques which I hope to employ on the next turnout I construct. The tie bar is work in progress not helped by me leaving it at Mark’s house that afternoon!
     
    This afternoon I decided to remove a few areas to make the work easier. Firstly, the removal of the telegraph pole, pallet and very fine TPM mesh fence which will be reinstated. The small projecting sign was also removed from the station building for good measure.
     
    Next up, the fascia had to go to actually get into the area as it will need some creative thinking wielding a soldering iron at some point The fascia will be recut at work on the laser cutter but I will probably opt for a different material as card is a bit too vulnerable.
     
    I then cut out the old turnout which had to be in pieces due to the ballast holding it firm. The wire in tube operation can just be seen poking through the platform so I hope to be able to link up with that. We made the turnout oversized and once I purchase some Xuron track cutters will trim it to the required length and then look at packers to bring it level. I will finish the tie bar and gap the turnout ready, cut to size and then (after a clean up) spray it grey primer before inserting it. Painting will only be completed once it is in place and trains are hopefully running smoothly. I will then make a judgement on whether I replace the other turnout which is located partially under the bridge
     
    The deadline is to have it revamped in time for the Stafford show early February 2019 as that is a weekend show so I need the running to be much better than it is currently.
     
    I would just like to extend my thanks to Mark Fielder again for his time, patience and help in building this turnout and I hope I can get it looking as good and as smoothing running as all his layouts
     
    Here are a few pictures...
     

     
     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    As always, comments welcome!
     
    Thanks, Pete
  8. bcnPete
    Evening peeps,
     
    A small update on progress. Been busy at work with deadlines but have managed a few work sessions on Wenford to keep mojo going.
     
    First up, and not my strong point was tidying the wiring up. This involved completey redoing the wire in tube turnouts with new wires and plastic sheathing and locating the switch permanently as part of the support structure. This has helped cure the intermittent shorts I was getting when testing. I also bought some self adhesive cable ties from that well known internet site as well as some new mounting pads to lift the layout about 10mm of the surface, giving clearance to the surface mounted wiring. The wiring is about as neat as I can get it and helps just having three main colours.
     
    Today I reworked the lights having yesterday purchased an LED cable strip at 5m in length forgetting the layout is split in two halves Luckily I was able to swap it out this morning for a 912mm cool white LED light. This will be repeated for the second board and I must say really makes a difference when the lights are on. Always good to have integrated Iighting on a layout as when we exhibit it is usually in large sports halls with inadequate lighting
     
    Following this was a quick (Ahem ) testing session. It’s amazing the fun that can be had by just shunting a wagon off the front road and into the small siding - look forward to get the Dapol DCC sound chipped one running again on it. For the moment the BB 08 works perfectly.
     
    Next up will be finish the lighting and then I can start tweaking the trackwork. Apart from the front track, most of it is engulfed in a concrete apron so I will need to think whether I go the DAS route or some sort of foamboard/card infills. Then I can start making the carcass for the buildings in the background.
     
    A few pics below...
     

    The surface mounted wiring...
     

    The addition of the lighting on the LHS really makes a difference...
     

    Rear fascia incorporates a small programming track which is hidden by dries building...HB in Oz too ...
     

    Some wagon shuffling in progress...
     

    Removing the 20T van and relocating in the siding takes some doing...
     

    And then swapping for a clay hood...
     

    End wall will have a mirror to extend perspective...
     

    Lighting seen from operators side...
     
    As always, comments welcome,
     
    Pete
  9. bcnPete
    Afternoon peeps,
     
    Followers of my blogs and threads will note this is a usual post in the evolution of anyone of my projects...and now it’s time for Meeth
     
    Following completion of ballasting I was shocked at just how bad the running qualities were of the layout, which prompted the recent foray into my 7mm project.
     
    However a trip to Railwells a few weeks ago, saw Mick Simpson’s superb 2FS Callaton layout and the running qualities were enviable so I decided to get out the scrapers, screwdrivers and various dental tools at my disposal to try and get the layout running.
     
    Following 1/2 hr of said work above, it was still pretty awful so I decided to bite the bullet and rip it up...turnout included. After all, if you can’t get a single track and siding running sweetly, what hope is there?
     
    So, much scraping and hacking later, I have now removed it and I will rethink my tactics. Am tempted to try the method of laying the sleepers, ballasting and then threading the rail. I might also return to the dry ballast and dilute PVA application as for some time I have been applying painstakingly by paintbrush...
     
    In other news I have just returned from 10 days in Ibiza where I managed to break a rib following an accident involving one of those inflatabliles towed at high speed behind a speedboat...so the next 6 weeks may be thinking rather than doing time as it hurts when I stoop over the layout
     
    Here’s where we are at...cue 80’s song by Orange Juice...
     

     

     

     

     
    As always...comments welcome...
     
    Pete
  10. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    A little progress since the last post has concentrated on trying to sort the backscene early so I can dress the scenery into it.
     
    I started to look at a number of readymade backscene available but felt none really suited the context. My fallback is to paint the sky pale blue as there will be trees in front however I first did some research around Meeth and happened by chance to find two landscape photos from an Estate agent selling a house in Meeth and there were accompanying views of surrounding land.
     
    I want to repeat what I did at Kyle which is basically a vinyl colour print which I applied onto a plastic sheet from some leftovers at the office model shop. This has worked really well and has not crinkled or delaminated since applied a few years ago.
     
    The photo was cropped in photoshop and printed to A1 in length on the office colour printer. It’s a little hazy due to being a small image but I kind of like that as it’s supposed to be in the background
     
    The first attempt was cut and carved to drop into the layout to give a feel although the second attempt this morning seems to work better. The scale of the trees can I think hold their own for a 2mm layout. I have dropped in place the building from the mock up to give a bit more of a feel to it and also added the Farish 25 which needs its wheels turned down and sound chipped...
     
    Overall I am quite pleased with it and may well try to get a few images on one sheet as I did for Kyle so I have some spares. It cost about £25 for the printing last time but I think it’s worth it and it means I can crack on with the soft landscaping which will take me out of my comfort zone.
     
    A few pics from today - please note it’s a quick n dirty exercise hence the chopping out of the sky around the timber fascia supports - I will of course make a template to undertake the final insertion. By the way, the fascia light is switched on as that is how the final presentation will be perceived.
     

     

     

     

     

     
    Following the comments received here’s the first attempt at it...perhaps the scale is better on this and I just need to take out the big tree and fade to sky at the edges...
     

     

     

     
    As always, comments welcomed,
     
    Pete
  11. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Quick update on Meeth.
     
    Having condemned all the trackwork on Thurso (a regular episode in my track building ) it was time to stand back and re-evaluate. I decided the best way was try a few experiments and the simplicity of the Meeth layout lends itself to this.
     
    Firstly, a return to turnouts made from PCB and code 40 bullhead. This followed on from my struggles with the easitrac turnout kits...great kits...but just not for me. Also some plain track and some using etches chairs. Unfortunately I found the Versaline system too fiddly for me...and opted not to buy all the jigs required to make the turnouts.
     
    The overall decision is that I will construct turnouts using PCB and bullhead and use easitrac for the plain track. As much as I love to see a layout with all the track handmade, I felt that not having chairs on the plain track was a loss considering the looks of easitrac.
     
    So Meeth track will be built and wired and once it is running smoothly I will put on hold and repeat the methods for Thurso as this has to be complete for the MRJ competition 2019, still leaving time for Meeth for the 2mmFS Diamond Jubilee 2020.
     
    Next up was preparing the curved backscene formers which will be constructed from 0.5mm ply sheet from the studio model shop. This was made in two pieces and cut with a scalpel to fit. They are loose fit at the moment and once the track insert is in place the respective holes can be cut in the fascia for FY access.
     
    Lastly was the track insert, this time using 1.0mm ply sheet, again cut with a scalpel. This is removable to allow the track to built offsite on my DRT (as the fascia is in place restricting access etc.)
     
    This afternoon, the turnout was positioned and easitrac plain track laid. A few cut lost wax brass sleepers are installed at the relevant places to aid wiring. I need to gap the sleepers on the turnout and construct a catch point in the siding (a first for me) but the basic track has been glued down in place.
     
    A few pictures attached to capture progress with newly purchased Farish class 25 which will primarily be used for this project - the aim is to try and get this laid and wired by the end of 2017 to allow it to be shelved and return to Thurso.
     
    Overall, I feel a lot happier about this approach again now.
     

    Experiments including PCB turnout, PCB plain track and Versaline etch plain track...
     

    Back to basics...
     

    Removable track insert on 1.0mm ply which is fairly strong...
     

    Curved backscene dry fit in place...holes will be cut later for FY access...
     

    View towards where turnout will be located...
     

    View towards where golds shed will be located...
     

    Track insert in place...track overhangs slightly at present hence no fascia in place...
     

    Ditto...catch point to be constructed next...holes have been formed for wire in tube operations...
     
    Comments welcome as always,
     
    Pete
  12. bcnPete
    Afternoon all,
     
    After the AGM the other week, 2mmFS mojo has been topped up and it was time to start looking at the rolling stock for KoL. I had always had the intention to have a class 24/1 as they were more frequent on the line than the 24/0 and the Etched Pixels etches were getting a little fidgety in the gloat box.
     
    Following some filing away to the front cabs to remove door hinges etc. some filler has been added to create the distinctive smooth fronts. The roof fan has been drilled out and replaced as well as the addition of the head code boxes - very nice conversion kit of etches here. There are also some roof modifications required which were started this morning...some for 24/1's and some to correct Farish's errors.
     
    Ploughs fitted it had a first coat of primer to flush out any filling errors...and there are quite a few judging by the close ups! More filler was applied earlier. The loco will end up as 24124 which I have a pic of at KoL. Lastly the front will be drilled to have to white jewel headlamps similar to what I did with one of my class 26's. Am not sure I will use the working lights as the lamps were all a bit dull in those days by accounts.
     

     
    First coat of primer...
     

     
    Some further filling and sanding required to the cab front...
     
    Secondly, sound for my Farish 37/4 - it's all that Nick Bastable's fault for running his green 207 on the layout at the AGM The sound was impressive and the next day I took the rash move of ordering a sound chip from Digitrains just to see how it was. There was away thread on here recently that showed a new Zimo chip which could plug in and the speaker attached was buried in the 37/4 nose/roof - instant sound was what I was after.
     
    What I hadn't taken into account was that they had not lowered their 37 so it did not fit Following various arrangements to try and locate I set about making my own lid for the mini speaker. This proved to be problematic so it was parked and slept on overnight - next morning I had a solution.
     
    Cut the lid off the speaker housing using a razor saw, profile the shape to that of the 37 roof and then add a slither of 10 thou plasticard to make a new roof. This was then coated with a permanent marker black pen and then inserted back into the loco - this time it fitted a lot better and the lights were still working.
     
    Attached is a short video of it in action. Must admit, I was never a fan of this sound stuff...but now I am bitten by it It's only money preventing me from working through my whole fleet ...and perhaps any necessary hacking of the chassis block which I would prefer not to do. The aim is to put a sound chip in the other 37/0 and in future the 24, 26 and 27's can follow.
     

     
    Am tempted not to have the lights working in these as per above but the high intensity light on the 37 is quite nice.
     
    Am hoping to have the 24/1 and the other 37 ready for the Tonbridge exhibition 18 February 2017.
     
    Toodle pip,
     
    Pete
  13. bcnPete
    Good morning,
     
    An update on the 2mmFS AGM yesterday and KoL's appearance.
     
    Whilst presenting at exhibitions is still a relatively new thing for me, putting your work on show to your fellow 2mmFS peers with a common interest is a somewhat slightly nerve racking experience This was my first attendance at an AGM, mainly due to AWOL in BCN but it was Mick Simpson who suggested at Warley last year that I bring the layout along. Set up was pretty smooth and this was the first outing with the layout in DCC mode. I am using the Uhlenbrock Daisy II system and am very happy with it.
     
    http://www.uhlenbrock.de/de_DE/produkte/digizen/I000C683-001.htm!ArcEntryInfo=0004.4.I000C683 - Which is available through a couple of suppliers in the U.K. - usual disclaimer
     
    My thanks again to Nigel Cliffe for all his help and even packing his laptop and software to be able to correct a few things I hadn't quite got to grips with yet. Nigel even added some loco bitmap icons for the handset as well as tuning my 37 which was a little on/off in its responsiveness...due to the chip I think.
     
    Setting up the morning before at home and the layout behaved itself - 24 hours later at a show and we had derailments, uncoupling issues and a dodgy wire to a turnout...again the latter identified by Nigel with my meter...I also took the mock up of Thurso which we propped up against the layout to show the next phase of this project. Thanks for the nice feedback all.
     
    The AGM itself was fairly rapid and congratulations to all those who won prizes. Tim Shackleton was the judge and followed with a few inspirational words about finescale modelling.
     
    For me, it was an enjoyable day out and very nice to meet familiar faces (some I haven't seen since the 2mmFS Goldern Jubilee) and meet some new ones. My thanks to my youngest son Jo who came to help set up and operate which allowed me to chat with peeps. It was also nice to have a few interlopers on the layout some of which has been captured in the iPhone pics below.
     
    If you are wondering about the title, it's because I have never made it to Kyle yet, only getting as far as Inverness about 30 years ago...although I do feel I know the place quite intimately
     
    If of interest, Kyle is due to appear at the following exhibitions planned to date:
     
    February 2017 - Tonbridge
    February 2018 - Stafford
     
    Here's a few pics...
     

     
    the t-shirt...my son was wearing his but beneath his hoodie as he was cold...
     

     
    the formal proceedings...
     

     
    nigel identifying the problematic turnout...
     

     
    pixie laid out some stock on the thurso mock up...
     

     
    nic bastable's 207 finally get's north...without third rail...
     

     
    dave strattons class 33 - farish on Dapol chassis...
     

     
    bryn's 24081 and some of his wagons...
     

     
    a few more of bryn's wagons...my grampus was only chucked on as it has two loops at each end...
     

     
    pixie's class 25...looks really at home...although 25's never made it there I believe...
     

     
    pixie's class 24/1 - etched pixels mods to a class 24...
     
    All in all a fab day out and thanks to all for their kind comments.
     
    Pete
  14. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    Time for an update...
     
    Work doesn't seem to be allowing any windows to do any modelling after work in the evenings at present so progress is focussed around weekend slots in between family duties.
     
    The wiring has been simplified (how can it be complicated on a layout such as this you ask ) but in the main down to the fact that it was originally constructed 5 years ago in 300mm sections to get in my box files/suitcase, so lots of jump wires etc. A test class 47 managed to navigate all areas of track with a few bits of filing required to turnouts and some further tweaking.
     
    After trying to come up with a simple option to link the fiddleyard tracks using sliding brass sleeved sections I finally decided to run the power on the underside to the far end and use crocodile clips attached to brass tubes soldered to the end of the roads - at least this will hopefully keep the operator alert by physically having to move them during train movements.
     
    I also decided to rethink the lighting and rather than using my favourite IKEA LED strips, this time I have opted for a 'Screw-fix' linear fitting. One has been mounted behind the front fascia which seems to throw light evenly on the back scene which I decided was more important than on the water and another in the Fiddleyard.
     
    I took the opportunity of making a small shelf which can hold additional rolling stock if need be and this also allowed me to attach the light to the underside of it. The two lights have been connected together by the cable supplied although this has been somewhat shortened.
     
    Overall this should now give a good coverage to both the scenics and non scenic section rather than relying solely on exhibition lighting...usually in the form of Sportshall/Gymnasium toplight. I think it gives a nice glow to the Fiddleyard from the letterbox slot too.
     
    Here's a few pics:
     

    view front left...
     

    view front right...
     

    fiddleyard showing low tech power solution...
     

    stock tray incorporated...
     

    clocks ticking...
     
    Comments welcomed as usual...
     
    Pete
  15. bcnPete
    Evening all,
     
    Another heavy week at work lead me to want to get some modelling done this weekend. This followed a lightning 90 minute visit last weekend to the St Albans show to keep the mojo topped up.
     
    Progress has been in the form of fixing the 4 roads to the fiddleyard in place, which has once again put my basic soldering skills to the limit. To aid this process, I have used both Solder paint and red flux from C+L so was feeling a bit light headed after breathing in fumes the last two afternoons
     
    I also managed to modify the base beneath the sliding deck as it became apparent it was a tad higher once the feeder roads had been set. Much scraping of foamboard and mess gave me a new deck to work from which was built up in card layers to the desired height - a coat of grey paint on top has reinstated the base before I attach the perspex fiddleyard.
     
    Whilst the perspex is quite fun in its appearance, I am not sure that it works so well with hand built trackwork...especially my soldering, which I will go back and clean up when I come to check gaps/test run etc. Fibre glass sticks, flux, solder paints and solder all seem to leave a residue so the overall deck is not as clean as I would have liked...but at least it seems strong and stable. Next step after cleaning up and checking is to sort the alignment and power issues and finalise the lighting to the scenic boards.
     
    Lesson learnt from today was that, even after making a workbench with compartments to prevent liquids being knocked over, is to not remove them from their designated place closer to the work in hand Right at the last minute I managed to completely knock over my red flux on the workbench over the cutting mat and surrounding areas...thankfully not to much damage done just a strange red glow to a part of it
     
    A few pics of progress...the deadline has been adjusted to 10:00am in line with Andy's sharp observation
     

    google earth shot...
     

    arrival and departure roads...
     

    from outside...soldered joints will be refined a litte now the lines are in place...
     

    grubby first signs of evidence of work being undertaken...
     

    clocks ticking...
     
    As always, comments welcome.
     
    Pete
  16. bcnPete

    ballast...

    By bcnPete,

    Good evening,
     
    The target this weekend was to undertake the ballasting - as usual, a tedious exercise, despite given the relatively small size of the layout.
     
    As usual, I use the Woodland Scenics fine grey chips and these were applied onto pre spread PVA using a mixture of paint brushes and cocktail sticks.
     
    I had pre painted the sleepers and chairs with a view to pre painting the rail and threading it but due to lack of progress I ended up cracking on with finishing the track so I will have to hand paint the rail(s) later.
     
    I also managed to apply the first coat of paint to the buffer stops and checking the prototype was surprised to see they were black with white - just got to do the red stripe now.
     
    A few pics:
     

     

     

     

     
    Next job is to make the station canopy...
     
    That's it really - small progress, short blog entry but at least moving in the right direction...which it needs to with only 39 days remaining...
  17. bcnPete
    Buenos dias a todos
     
    Actually, its been raining here all weekend...can't win em all...
     
    Slightly flimsy blog content this one, but just a small update as I secured the new platforms in place yesterday and have been pondering the next move to make. Rather than rush into the ballasting today I have decided to leave that until the Easter weekend...especially as I just found out this morning that the Outlaws are coming to stay next week for 12 days meaning they will be here, and still here, the next 2 weekends I fly back Rest assured, the show MUST and WILL go on as there's 54 days to the exhibition...
     
    The main decision taken this weekend is to replace the cardboard fascias with 3mm ply which I will cut using the laser at work using some offcuts my colleague has promised me. Whilst I am a big fan of cardboard, this will hopefully give a little more rigid stability to the overall set up. The new fiddle yard bases will also be in ply to match the 2 main baseboards.
     
    I have drawn out all the components in CAD and will hopefully make a start in my lunchtimes this week.
     
    Here's a shot from a previous entry on framing:
     

     
    Now the platform has been repositioned and the colour lights are in place so after ballasting the platform canopy will be the outstanding largest scenic to be started - had better start drawing that out soon, which will probably be a plasticard structure.
     
    Here's the latest with the 4 CEP in place and a few wagons to set the scene and the mini-me model of what I am hoping to achieve:
     

     

     

     

     

     

     
    Tootle-pip...
  18. bcnPete
    Good evening,
     
    An update to share some thoughts of recent on the layout.
     
    Firstly, the track layout. I had some thoughts on relocating the turnout onto the other board to try and increase the length of train for run-a-round purposes and this would still allow room for a class 33/73 between the turnout and buffer stops. I then realised that this would increase the amount of visible track in the front edge of the bay platform and one of the things I liked about Kyle was having a little scenic space to allow the siding to breathe. Instead I have now shuffled the turnout to the end edge of the baseboard which buys about 50mm extra in the loop, which could be a wagon length at this scale.
     

     
    Only minimal but preserves the single track to the front baseboard edge...
     
    Secondly, the means of operation for the fiddleyards. I have been wrestling with traversers v cassettes in my mind for a few weeks now (I have always wanted one of those sliding traversers built on draw runners) but alas, its not to be for this layout.It makes much more sense for the cassette type operation as most trains on the through line will be fed from the single track end and then they will be collected and reassembled at the other end to start the sequence again.
    Coupled with this, the fiddleyards need to be hinged to fit in the boxfiles...so more complications with a hinged folding sliding mechanism
    Back to cassettes and the ones below were fabricated for CJM and are 500mm in length.
     

     
    Two aluminum angles on a card base...
     
    I thought about reusing them, but they need to be extended as the 4CEP doesn't fit and longer lengths will enable slightly more interesting trains (more on this in my next update) Next thought was to see if they fit in my hand luggage at 500mm in length and possibly extend them at each end...but I kinda like the idea of everything still fitting into both boxfiles, which still squeeze in my hand luggage. So it looks like I will be splicing them in half to give 2 No. 250mm pieces, hinged together with a 100mm feeder extensions to both ends That's the thinking today anyway...as I try to find a neat solution for power and alignment issues to avoid the same issues experienced on Kyle.
     
    Thirdly, should it be of interest I have uploaded some sketches mostly which were done en route to the UK and were enhanced with a little Bombay Sapphire and Tonic in my bloodstream at an altitude of circa 35,000ft..They show how the solution was developed for the folding hinged through line alongside some thoughts on layout lighting, fascia and electrical supply etc.
     

     
    Overall dimensions and stacking in the boxfiles...
     

     
    If cassettes, that will determine depth of fiddleyard bases...
     

     
    Layout lighting will probably use IKEA strip lighting used on RMweb 2011 challenge entry....
     

     
    Ideas on power between boards and for cassettes...
     

     
    Hinged through line support method and location of control panel elements...
     
     
    The next entry will cover rolling stock and possibly any developments on the cassettes.
     
    As always, comments welcome...
  19. bcnPete
    Update
     
    Good morning - A little progress Monday night, but some better progress last night, aided and abetted by Gin Tonics and this time I have taken some shots outside in natural light.
     
    I have been progressing the old clay dries building by firstly installing lintels above the openings and secondly starting the curved roof cladding. I had wanted to represent the 'scraggy' ends to the asbestos panels but after cutting out a few ribs it resembled more like missing teeth as it was too chunky, so I may attack the leading ends with a razor saw instead.
     
    The roof cladding has been built up as per my last method which involves laying thin strips of double sided tape, which just give enough of a ridge between the sheets to give the sense of horizontal overlapping. I have then washed the joints in Mek Pak (discolored version soon to be replaced by inbound new bottle of ) to just help strengthen them. I need to complete the first layer of the roof and then add the second raised layer which looks to be spaced above to allow ventilation and includes a few rooflights too, which I will model. Then, atop of this, another louvred ridge. Also I have included the strange little projection in the roof, which used to be connected by a high level walkway across the tracks, which has since been removed but I am modelling circa 1980 when it was in use. The door gives high level access to the old clay dries, one presumes.
     
    I also had a first stab at the fuel oil store. This is essential a circular stone clad building (I really seem to pick them ) and last night I 'borrowed' a plastic cannister of multi vitamins and have wrapped in double sided tape the stone cladding around it. I have to work on the joint but this will be at the rear so not so viewable. More work is to be done detailing this.
     
    I have included a photo of my workbench as 'Smokey Bacon Steve' was asking how much I worked by drawing and it indicates the sort of level of detail I draw on the carcass prior to covering. Most has been gauged by photographs, past and present as I expect it would be too difficult to source the original drawings.
     
    That's about all for now...a few pics attached...
     

    The workbench...main cladding lines have been marked out on the carcass...

    Cladding applied with double sided tape with Mek Pak to reinforce the joints...

    In context...must finish that 37 off...

    And again...

    Time shift for Mark 46444...who has been asking for a while to see this...

    And again...
  20. bcnPete
    Update
     
    Evening all - Managed to sneak in a bit of modelling this evening. Having got the first dries building to a point where I will leave it until I add further details, paint and weathering I was keen to progress the other building which is primarily of stone construction. This one is on a curve so the roof is going to be fun
     
    I have applied Slaters embossed stone sheeting to the card carcass (using double sided tape) and after studying the prototype settled for the larger stones than the smaller, which would have been too small. The inclined walls and pillars have been lined, stone joints aligned and I hope it gives a feeling of 'chunky/sturdy' construction associated with these types of dries. The openings (now blocked up as I think this building is unused by Blue Circle) need to have timber lintels spanning between which will be added next time. A little model filler will help tidy up some joints too.
     
    The roof is at present a rough template and this will be fun to build as there appears to be three overlapping layers to it...possibly some rooflights in the mix there too. It is quite shabby now and in a bit of a state and I would like to try and capture this aspect in the model.
     
    A few pics attached - once again, not great quality I am afraid and I should probably wait until the morning...but then something else always seems to crop up and get in the way so thought better post now.
     

    Overall shot of building - stone sheeting has been applied to the card carcass...
     

    A cruel low level shot but I hope it starts to capture the flavour of the prototype - the roof will help with that...
     
    PS - large brown paper package arrived from Hattons today...a few rather tasty new Farbach blue grey Mk I's and two class 37's - the Mk I's are for KIAB whilst the 37's will form part of my fleet for this layout including guest appearances by 37207 William Cookworthy and 37175 in Large Logo livery. This will form part of a seperate entry to the blog...
     
    Buenos Noches a todas...
  21. bcnPete

    Kyle - Scope checks...

    By bcnPete,

    Update - Following withdrawal of CJ from the GJLC it is now time to put the foot to the pedal with Kyle, which at least is easier to transport and is making its debut in 108 days.
     
    I still need to complete the turnouts and am pondering means of operation following all the fellow informative posts of recent however it is likely that they will remain low tech in order to reduce weight, simplify the sparks and balance costs. Most probably wire in tube using a dpdt switch for the two turnouts and manual moveable magnets for the DG's...still sketching that one.
     
    From the 2 previous mock ups I have now decided upon a backscene height which seems to be in proportion to the layout. For these I am thinking to use an existing photo of the station and using one of those panoramic photo packages see what can be produced using a bit of cut and paste.
     
    The two main viewing boards have been made from foamboard and although a tad scrappy at present will receive a thin veneer of either card or modelling ply. The two boards which form the fiddleyard have also been made from foamboard and the idea now is that these are stored 'upside down' in the other boxfile and contain the cassettes and rolling stock inside.
     
    A few pics attached of progress with 'out of the box' Dapol sprinter posing whilst it awaits rewheeling...
     

    Quick check to see that the two boards still fit...
     

    Other two boards will act as rolling stock storage...
     

    Overall shot of layout - 1200mm x 120mm...
     

    Backscene in place...
     
    It's only a small layout but I hope it will convey and capture a sense of the Scottish prototype...
  22. bcnPete
    Good Morning - Fresh start was made on the turnout last night and with a cold beer to steady my nerves things were significantly better than the last attempt. The chairs for the straight rail have been added, the frog has been made again but the curved rail is only pinned in place. I will need to redo the common crossing a third time, but solely due to my own ham fisted soldering skills when connecting the rails beneath for electrical continuity and alignment. I will be in contact [bryn] to discuss how I can crack this! Thanks also to Dave M for advice on laying the sleepers prior to threading the rail.
    These EASITRAC turnout components are beautifully crafted and I look forward to seeing the first of only two turnouts for this layout in operation very soon...after all...I understand that the Bachfar 24 release is very soon and that would be ideal for undertaking thorough track testing :icon_biggrin: - Few pics attached...
     

     

  23. bcnPete
    Good morning,
     
    Having submitted my entry for the 2011 diorama comp (just need to set up the summary topic) my thoughts now turn to the next few months of modelling.
     
    Whilst I am obviously still keen to carry on with this layout, I have decided to spend between now and Christmas revisiting my 'Kyle in a Boxfile' layout. I never finished the station building and whilst at it a number of things need doing...and redoing, for example the backscene and bringing the layout up to scratch. I always said I would revisit it when the new Dapol 26 arrived....and now it has I have to honour my self promise.
     
    I also hope to create some additional rolling stock for the layout using Bryn's '2mmFS build off' as a kick start on my collection of Stephen Harris wagon kits.
     
    Back to Coombe Junction - Moorswater and indeed the title for this blog entry.
     
    When I first joined RMWeb 3 and introduced my layout, Mickey was one of the first (and Ramblin Rich a close second I recall) to ask whether I was going to include the gradient to Liskeard...and indeed the 'real Coombe Junction'. When planning the layout I had done various sketches and scenarios to include it, but with a planned maximum of 3 IKEA lack shelves, I decided to omit it and include Moorswater dries which I felt was a nice 'gritty' balance to the leafy green branch line.
     
    During this years summer vacation to Looe, I became enchanted by the history of the quayside and upon return I relooked at all my books on the branch and thought that a separate model of Looe, during steam years would make a nice model....something as per this sketch...
     

     
    The fiddleyard would be separate cassettes etc...
     
    I must admit, I was quite taken by this as a layout idea...seeing Prairies along the quay side...and B sets in the station ...and even began a search for a Dapol Prairie and B set on ebay...but they seem quite rare these days...and I also thought 'do I really want to start another layout?'...and stay married? ...so I put this one on ice for a long while.
     
    My thoughts then turned back to extending my layout instead and incorporating not only the start of the incline to Liskeard...but also a stretch of the line to Looe (omitting all the other halts between) This of course would be the 'much stripped back Looe', consisting of a platform and bus shelter as I first visited it 30 years ago as a 15 year old...and my on/off romance with the Looe line began
     
    So herewith the idea to extend the layout from 3.3 metres to 5.5 metres overall, using, you guessed it, 2 more IKEA lack shelves.
     
    The idea is to modify the fiddleyard board, by removing the fiddleyard and incorporating a cassette feeder system behind the backscene. The incline will pass behind concealed by trees (there is a small bridge too I recall that could work as a scenic break) and the lower line continues through a tree lined meander, and finally meeting the river where it terminates at the station. One thing it will allow is somewhere to be able to run my Bubble car / 101 DMU's rather than them presently shuttling between Coombe Junction and the fiddle yard.
     
    A few sketches to illustrate this...
     

     
    Initial espresso fueled sketch in plan...
     

     
    And 3D sketch of new boards...
     
    Seeing as I already have a 1:10 model of the overall scheme as exists at present...
     

     
    I thought I could map out the above and see how it feels...as per this...
     

     
    The red line is the cut showing the modifications...
     

     
    The view looking towards both Liskeard and Looe...
     

     
    The view from Looe...
     

     
    The cassettes will be on storage ledges on the back of the backscene...
     
    That said...I am not about to embark on this straight away Using the momentum built up from the diorama competition entry, I would like to try and complete the 3 current boards to the same sort of finish as the diorama to be able to run the layout possibly even exhibiting it if possible and then begin the extension as a separate exercise. I did however promise Mickey that I would share the future plans on 2 October as I didn't want to derail myself from focus on the diorama.
     
    Now...in the meantime...where did I stash those Scottish Boxfiles?...
  24. bcnPete
    Update
     
    Had an opportunity to do some modelling last night...but couldn't face it...need more time to think things through...things like whether to use easitrac or pcb for the new sidings...
     
    So, during a trip to Ikea this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to see a new entry in the LACK shelf family (really, I have no connections to Ikea)
     
    As you may recall, I have an abundance of the 1100 x 260mm LACK shelves scattered at home and a few 1900 x 260mm too, and they make great layout opportunities so you can imagine my surprise this morning to see a 300 x 260mm new edition.
     
    I instantly thought that this would 1) be suitable for model railways and 2) be an interesting challenge.
     
    So, one was duly purchased for the sum of €4.99 with a view to doing something with it.
     
    Rolling stock showcase TMD layout T gauge layout
     
    I attach a few photos - as usual they meet all my criteria: solid construction, lightweight, easy to remove/fix on the wall, well priced...
     

    300 x 260mm - shame it doesn't fit in a boxfile...
     

    with class 37 for scale...
     
    It might just help that pesky mojo reboot...
     
    Pete
  25. bcnPete
    Update - The question of a backscene was raised in the previous post and although I originally never intended to have one, I am now coming around to the idea. The idea has been tested further...
     
    You may recall this 1:10 scale model previously made to test the compactness of the layout for transportation to and from its home in BCN...
     

     
    This morning, I have added a backscene, to a height which I would feel comfortable with. I think any lower than the viaduct and it will look strange, so the idea is that the viaduct passes through it and I won't need to photoshop the continuation of the tracks etc. Most of it will be light grey with a hint of some rolling valleys which will be obscured by the lengths of trees which will run in front of it...
     

     

     
    The last shot shows the 1:10 scale model in comparison with Moorswater viaduct...
     

     
    I think I am now more convinced to have a backscene and of course I welcome any comments in support or otherwise...
     
    TIA
     
    Pete
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