James Hilton

Good choice on colours... The speakers are built in so you could add sound easily later, the sound file we are using is licensed from Minerva though, developed specifically for the Victory and is a real delight.

I picked up the Peco Code 83 track a few weeks ago in advance of this project, as well as a Xuron track cutter as I’ve previously only ever used a cutting disc... This tool is one I should have bought years ago, clean and crisp cuts with absolute ease, a real pleasure to use... anyhow, I’d given the layout a coat of dark grey paint to give a sealing first coat to the MDF, track laying took all of an hour, mostly spent tweaking the alignment to get a nice flowing curve, not that many will ever notice as it’s only when you peer through the end hole that you can appreciate it. The turnout will need slivers of styrene adding to stop the gaps in the rails to the frog closing up and I need to add some wiring next. The turnout will be manually operated, I don’t think I’ll bother with using the frog wiring, relying on the blades for contact, but will bury the wire in the scenery should this prove to be a shortcut too far! The sidings will be isolated with toggle switches, I think, to allow two locos to be on the layout should ever a moment arise. A train has run thought! I connected up crocodile clips to the right hand end and the GE70t made a test run to the turnout and back. Once these wiring additions are added tomorrow I will then be able to start on the level crossing and ground work. It’s a shame there isn’t enough wood here for the lid, as it would be nice to wire up and test the lighting before too long as well. Ho hum, blooming C-19 lockdown here in North Wales means that will have to wait until mid to end of January at the earliest. Until next time, more soon...

On the Prince Edward Island Railway’s Murray Harbour subdivision (what us Brits would call a branch line) business was seriously in decline by the 1970s, buoyed but the annual potato harvest. This rural back water of the mighty Canadian National with its light track and diminutive GE 70t is the subject of this seasons layout project... In a previous post I’ve shared the early work on planning as well as the stock, but now the holidays have started wood has been cut and the basic box has been constructed. Due to lock down this has been cobbled together from what was in the cupboard, so we’ve a 9mm MDF base, 6mm ends and 3mm hardboard for the front wings and backscene. The lid was to be hardboard too, but I mis-measured so it will have to wait until non-essential shops are open again. The track bed will be cut and glued from 6mm MDF, I’ve also dug out and found the LED lighting, and tested this by using the lid of Pont-y-Dulais, proving the concept. I may use a strip of aluminium angle along the front of the lid to stop it sagging and add a heat sink for the LEDs. That’s all for now, I might try and get some paint on the GE70t next, more soon...

Thanks, I notice this is quite often asked of manufacturers. I’m sure that could be arranged, but I’m afraid the price would be the same as a complete model, as it would be stripped down by Steve and I in the UK. I’m sure there will be people interested in second hand chassis for their own projects so you’d be probably be better off selling it on eBay or the RMWeb marketplace after you’ve removed it yourself.

I’ve spent the last few days, especially the weekend, adding the end handrails and grab rails to the yellow peril... These were formed from 0.3 mm brass wire for the grab handles, and 0.45 mm for the handrails which were soldered together for strength. This was a fiddly job that I took slowly and really enjoyed. You can also see I have added the footboards and various hoses to each end, I still need to add the drop steps and safety chains. I can’t wait to get some primer on it and see what the finish is like, but ideally I need to have sorted the bell by then as well. The main problem with modelling North American prototypes in the UK is sourcing parts, often smaller details like the bell. This as I’ve said before adds something for me, it slows the modelling down to a more mindful pace compared to working on others projects and commissions as well as giving me the chance to repurpose other items or design my own. I’m also aware I need 4 corner marker lights and a pair of long re-railers... This however can wait, and ahead of the Christmas layout project it’s nice to see this model coming together. Until next time, more soon...

I noticed when I shared the SW1200RS yesterday, that I hadn't shared photos of the S13u finished on here... It is the process of weathering, that in my opinion is the stage a model comes to life... Yes, the artistic touch is seen elsewhere in a model, choosing what detail to include and how to represent it in miniature, what to ignore and what to perhaps accentuate - but it is the process of adding dirt, oil, grease and worn surfaces, corrosion and such that transfer the model into a minitature recreation of that living breathing prototype. I don't care if it's a locomotive, item of rolling stock, road vehicle, building or track, everything needs to be considered and weathered in the same artistic manner. The techniques may vary slightly but the shades of colour do not and it's the consistency in palette that can blend disparate models and finished, ready to run, kits, scratch builds all together. The Kaslo Shops S13u has been a good fun project and I've enjoyed bringing the model to life with some subtle weathering. Working from photos I added a wash to all horizontal surfaces at running board and lower. The footplate sides were then carefully washed and micro painted based upon where dirt and grease collected or was dragged down by water. This extended to the pilots each end as well. On the chassis I used a similar blend of colours to match the patterns of colour and texture found on the real 8704. Primarily all of this was mixed using Humbrol enamels, 33 and 98 - the two good old favourites. Once dry, I used an airbrush with 0.3mm needle to carefully blend these touches together, softening the effect of the streaks. The mix was about 1 part Humbrol 133, 1 part 245 and two parts 27004. I also added some vertical 'streaks' to the bonnet side - subtle and steady as she goes, you don't want to over-do it. The exhaust stack got a good dose, and then the under frame too, before a very light dusting all over. These colours are the same as I used on the GP15, and have also used on the rolling stock weathered so far - so they should have a good overall appearance when finally they get used together. https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVCExHsLJJE/X7ViTNeAD6I/AAAAAAAAxTM/TJt2C90wckAWlrE3qvojYmA6UdIe0tjnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1954.jpeg The result is, to my eye, a hard working but reliable machine that looks as if it's just finished a shift and is ready for the next. All that remains is to build a layout for it! Until then though, more soon...

I've worked over the Rapido SW1200RS I picked up a few weeks ago, another suitable model for the Halifax and South Western project, spurred on by some photos I've seen of the type at Lakeside Industrial park... Before I started on the weathering I added the radiator winterisation hatches, and re-attached the horn. I based my weathering on various photos of the real 1359, attempting to copy the stains and scratches off the prototype. I started with using a dark grey, like with the GP15, as a panel line wash on the black bonnet. I then painted the chassis with a dark brown/black mixed from Humbrol 33/98. Next the exhaust stacks were removed and the mould lines filed and sanded smooth, before being repainted in gunmetal (53). Once dry I used a mix of 33/98, copying photos, to tone these down before re-fitting them. I began to use the same mix to micro paint the sills and around the doors, being careful to copy the pattern of marks and loctations, this micro approach was also applied to the truck side frames. I added a little more of the wash carefully around the cab and bonnet grill. Using gunmetal (53) again, I dry brushed the foot step edges, handrail edges and some of the chassis detail. This not only simulates wear, but also shows up edges, lifting the finish and adding contrast. The final step is then to airbrush some road dirt, to soften the edges of the previous approaches and tie the finish together. I'm reasonably happy with it for now, although I may re-visit it again in the future. I need to see it in action on a layout with stock to check it fits in really... and although I'm planning on making steps on that over Christmas it will be some time before it can stretch its legs. In the meantime, it was nice to work on my own model, alongside the myriad of commissions and Planet Industrials work at the moment. I hope you enjoyed reading about the transformation - and perhaps it's given you the nudge to work on your own model. More soon...

The Golden Valley Hobbies / Oxford Rail Janus is a wonderful model of a chunky prototype. As well as offering etched works plates Steve has drawn up a lovely set of of 'Port of London Authority' number plates to the range... https://www.narrowplanet.co.uk/collections/planet-industrials/products/pip-004 One set will allow you to model all ten of the locomotives, should you wish. £10 including UK delivery from the Narrow Planet marketplace. We've also managed to secure a batch of the PLA Janus, and offer a package deal... https://www.narrowplanet.co.uk/products/port-of-london-janus-locomotive £65 for the locomotive alone, £70 including the PLA plates, including UK delivery. The existing works plates are still available, in both AEI and BTH formats... https://www.narrowplanet.co.uk/products/pip-001 £7 a set including UK delivery.

I can’t I’m afraid Tom. It was just a plug in transformer from Amazon or EBay, I chopped off the socket and wired it to the 16v AC feed on the Gaugemaster W.

Take a look at my 6point5 minimum gauge range, there is a Hudswell Clarke diesel that fits on that chassis... I do custom builds if you’re not confident in putting one together.

It's been on my 'list' for a while, I'm trying to get the new Planet chassis finished, which then allows the Clayton to be released too, and it would be perfect under the Yardmaster as well.

Livery Options With a varied career in military and industrial service, the Kerr Stuart Victory class wore a number of liveries. For modellers it is also very suitable for freelance applications; alternative industrial uses or even survival to preservation-era layouts. In finalising our shortlist of liveries to proceed to production, Planet Industrials are conducting a survey of livery choices which we invite all modellers with an interest in the loco to complete. Upon conclusion of the survey we will make our final choices and open the pre-order scheme accordingly. As a thank you for taking part we will also draw one entry and award the winner a £25 gift card for the Narrow Planet online marketplace. NOTE: Illustrations shown are indicative only and do not represent final artwork. COMPLETE THE SURVEY Plain black (suitable for 18/19 at Aberaman Colliery) Plain black with "ROD 608" lettering Black with red lining (freelance) Grey with white/black/white lining and "IW&D 12" lettering Grey with white/black/white lining and "VICTORY" lettering (works photo condition) Grey with white/black/white lining (freelance) Green with straw lining and "EKR 4" lettering (note, incorrect roof profile) Green with straw lining (freelance) Plain green (freelance) Crimson with straw lining (suitable for "Francis") Plain crimson (freelance) We've also left a box for you to suggest other schemes that we've not considered. COMPLETE THE SURVEY

To bring us up to date... Works Notice 002 https://mailchi.mp/2fe46896493a/ready-to-run-kerr-stuart-victory-in-00-from-planet-industrials Works Notice 003 https://us2.campaign-archive.com/?u=eb05efc678dd9997b2cc09ca4&id=e95f34eaed Works Notice 004 https://mailchi.mp/c2758dbb685f/victory-livery-survey-the-latest-from-planet-industrials

The photos I've seen of EKR No.4 when it was first delivered, and I imagine until first repainted, show it grey, dirty and with the IW&D 11 markings still visible under the dirt. I can't comment on the 'ease' of renumbering... a lined grey example with a transfer pack (yes, we're thinking about things like that already) may be the way to go... but for now, we just want your vote as we're finalising liveries with the factory in the new year. I'll post up about the livery survey here and on Facebook later this morning, everyone who signed up should have it in their inbox already...

KB scale sell a rail bender, which allows you to bend 009 rail if taken off the sleeper webbing... then just re-thread the sleepers one by one. I did it on Kirsten Torfwerk, search on my blog.

Good luck, I’ve still got this micro but I’ve not had it out for a while, you’ve encouraged me to get it out for a play!

The first ‘chassis’ I’ve designed is in fact a 3D print, with push together assembly. It will feature in the new version of the Planet first, and then the modern Clayton. This still meets the ethos of what we do...

A few have asked me about whether I’m doing an etched chassis, my answer is the same each time... Our ethos is kits for the newcomer, but with the fidelity that more finescale modellers are equally happy to build and finish our products... with that in mind the kits make use of ready to run chassis, but provide a multimedia approach, using the strengths of each material to produce a neat and detailed model with consistent results from modellers of all skill levels. I dare say you’ll do a lovely job with a home made P4 chassis, I look forward to seeing how you get on when we release the model next year.

Yes, that’s one of the final changes between the prototype and production parts. On my own model I knocked one up from styrene.

The Ruston 165DE prototype has now had a light weathering, nothing too filthy, this needs to look like a hard working but relatively new and looked after model, so aid the illustration of the kit... I think this has really finished it off, before hand it looked a little garish, the wasp striping just grabbed your attention and the red wheels jumped out from the darkness, now everything is a little more muted. The finish is my usual multi stage approach, wash, micro painting, dry brushing and airbrushing - I won't go over that again here (search for weathering on my blog, and you'll find more). Posed here on Pont-y-dulais, she looks the part, neatly assembled - and the Hornby chassis doesn't give any clues to it's Peckett origins! The big Gibson 24" buffers are a lovely touch, and hopefully we'll be able to include these in future kits next year. Release is likely to be January now, we've just got too much on between now and Christmas to rush a pre-Christmas release. In the meantime, there will be news on Victory in the next few days, keep your eyes peeled and if you haven't already, sign up to the email list to hear first. More soon...

Lovely to see one of these finished with the transfers on too... I’ve got a list of stock to build at some point, from scouring the Paul Burkhalter book and the film Force Ten from Naverone... I’ve built the Planet with lower height roof too, although our kit version will have the standard cab...

It's a sad story, thanks for adding a little more of an experienced reflection on what happened.

Alongside the plans for a large (well, large for me) H0 gauge switching layout in my workshop, I've been drawn down a fascinating rabbit hole into railway operations on Prince Edward Island in Canada... Source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PEIRailway/permalink/1224538220953152/ This photo on the PEI Facebook group was the final straw, when a casual diversion turned into the resolve to build something, that feeling that many of us know, it eats away at you until it can be satisfied in miniature, brought to life through your eye like a painter bringing a beautiful landscape to life on canvas, the art of creating a well captured cameo is a wonderful process - detailed enough to draw you in yet casual enough to be finished within 12 months, the perfect distraction for the longer term Halifax and South Western project. The first step was the re-jigging of my workshop - I've shared some of these ideas before, but recently have stalled a little with the realisation that the proposed height of the HSW layout was too high. However, I noticed IKEA did a 3x4 bookshelf, that could be used to replace my existing setup (which can be re-used elsewhere at home) which would allow it to be lowered. However, that would mean a re-location of the Post-y-dulais micro, which has been so successful due to it's easy accessibility based above my workbench and always ready for action. However, I turned around to look out the window and realised that there might be enough room to add a couple of shelves in place of my large mirror, in fact probably 3 or 4 IKEA Lack shelves would fit nicely. These would easily hold Pont-y-dulais and some other materials... hey, there might even be space for the PEI micro... The Bachmann GE 70t I bought was dug back out and left on my desk as inspiration whilst I delved into PEI history. I've been drawn in particular to the Murray Harbour and Montague subdivisions, specifically in the mid 1970s, these lines saw largely seasonal traffic for the potato harvest, yet maintained an 'as required' service all year round seeing short trains hauled by a pair of 70t due to the light weight rail and relatively poor condition of the trackbed. These lines clung on, despite increasing competition from road transport, local management even invested in ballasting and improvements to allow larger engines to use the lines when the GE 70t were finally retired in the early 1980s - alas to no avail, as CN pulled out of PEI in 1989, about the same time they did the same on the 3'6" gauge Newfoundland lines - as one feels suited the crown corportation as it was preparing for privatisation. A lot more of the history of these fascinating lines can be found on Facebook and the various historical Wikis setup by dedicated rail historians. So that photo, by Steve Hunter, was inspiration enough, and with help from Chris Mears I focused down on Uigg, and Kinross and the Martin Visser warehouse spur... I felt this scene had real potential, and if I can get the feel of the back scene and colouring right, it will hopefully really 'pop' - as well as providing a distraction it will help me get my eye back into H0 scale scenery, techniques and begin to think about the need (or not) for colouring adjustment in my finishes. So several sheets of A4 were taped together, to represent approximately 1m x 25cm scenic area, and my solitary Peco Code 83 point (a number 6 right hand, perfect) were pressed into action. My hope was that it could be operated with a Ge 70t and pair of 40ft cars WITHOUT needing the 'cassettes', but longer trains could be handled with those fitted - so allowing adhoc operation as well as more dedicated, say 15 minute sessions - the cassettes will literally be placed on fold down 'tables' at each end of the micro, the holes in the sky may need filling in with plugs, that is hard to know until it's started. The Busch 'Chevy' pick up from the teenage Canadian layout pulled over on the shoulder to see the Ge70t switching the spur - the angles are wrong here, but I feel like it's got the potential to work, and I can use some of the tricks I've learnt in OO to hide the exits and block viewing angles - I plan on a little ground undulation, which should be easily achieved with a flat baseboard and separate track bed, and the backscene needs to feel like a summers day I think, so bright sky - and some research to determine if a photo back scene can work, or a sky (like Pont-y-dulais) or an artist impression painting. Progress though and enough to focus on for the better... I hope you've enjoyed this trip down the rabbit hole so far, we'll climb out for now, but there will undoubtedly be more soon...

I’ve looked in the Ruston and Hornsby Diesel Locomotive Album, by Andrew Neale... The exact wheelbase was 1778mm on the DS, and 1753mm on the DH. I don’t have a measurement for the DE.

If you search on RMWeb here then Dave (@ruston) has shared some drawings of the DS and DH types. The DE didn’t have a jack shaft as the traction motor was fitted directly to the axle. The Peckett chassis is very close, but if I were doing a custom made chassis I’d work from the drawing. The other advantage of the Peckett chassis is the wheels are of the correct pattern as I’ve been told that Peckett cast the wheels for Ruston.