Having just started building a GWR Grange in 5" scale I thought it would be useful to document the process. As a bit of a newbie but with some engineering experience I am starting with an GWR Grange utilising a lot of the castings/parts from Polly Model Engineering to help me get accustomed again before, motivation allowing, moving onto bigger things.
The purpose of documenting the process is:
1. To keep a pictorial record of progress
2. To provide a source of motivation to keep going, knowing that after a while I may experience motivational difficulties
3. To offer some insight and encouragement to others
I chose this model for a multitude of reasons:
1. Thanks to my Dad I am a GWR person through and through
2. It is a well documented and well supported model that is a good transition back into engineering
3. I can name it after the Grange that is close to where I live
Here is what I hope to build in the same period/livery etc:
The plan is to make a realistic model. Decision are still to be made on how far to take it but being realistic I can only aspire to some models like 4472 Flying Scotsman on this forum at this stage! I will 'outsource' the boiler and some of the parts where I don't have the tooling available (like smoke box which requires rollers etc). The rest will be machined/made 'in house' using castings and parts where available to expedite the process etc. I accept that this may be seen as not the purest approach but it is what it is and believe this is the best way for me to get back into the hobby.
I have ordered the parts/castings for the tender (3500 Gal) and this will be completed first but whilst waiting for delivery of the castings and parts I have made a start on the frames. Progress to date is the frames have been delivered and drilling of the ~200+ holes has commenced. Also the front buffer beam (minus vac pipes) has been completed and roughly assembled.
Next stage is to drill and mill the brass castings for the horn cheeks and suspension to get to something like this:
I would also caution though that this is a learning experience for me so I cant profess to being a professional that others can learn from! That said, as I am getting reacquainted, I am happy for constructive feedback and tips from others as I progress.
I will plan to post frequently although this may not be regularly as this has to fit around a number of other priorities and a full time job.
Thanks for now...