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46444

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  1. 46444
    Eventually I've got round to posting an update on some of my completed projects. Earlier in the year I set about converting my Bachmann 64xx to Newton Abbot's 74xx for use on the Teign Valley project. Here is the completed model from the fireman's side. Numberplate from Modelmaster. Crew from the Airfix/Dapol set. Fireman's shovel from a DJ Models fire iron set.
     

     
    Below is a rear view with a Bachmann fire bucket adapted to hang of the year with fire irons from the above named source.

     
    The front view shows off the running plate handrail above the centre step .
     

     
    Weathering was with my usual collection of Valejo/Tamiya paints applied through washes, dry brushing and the air brush. I may get the Birchwood Casey Gun Blue out on the coupling rods and tweak the weathering accordingly.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    Bit of a tease for the next entry 5993 completed.....
     

     

  2. 46444
    Yesterday I managed to pick up two of these Your Model Railway £3.99 MK1 SK coaches from ASDA in Rushden for a friend of mine. He asked if I'd put numbers on them and weather them for him too.
     
    Thanks to David I was able to source a suitable number for an Eastern Region example. Here's the link to David's in depth posting on the SK number series:
     
    http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/75546-br-mk-1-sk-coach-number-series/&do=findComment&comment=1143408
     
    If you've got some of these coaches this thread will be invaluable to numbering them. Thanks to David for taking the time to post this information.
     
    There has been a lot of comment on here about these coaches and a few people have brought them I'm not going into the pro's and con's of these coaches but all I will say is that you have unpainted BR maroon lined and flush glazed Bachmann sides and an economy roof and underframe etc.
     
    For turning this coach around I dismantled it and gave the sides a couple of coats of brush painted Klear to add lustre to the unpainted sides. The roof was primed and sprayed with a mixture of Tamiya acrylics.
     

     
    Numbers and other transfers came from the HMRS Pressfix sheet. I chose E24195 which was from the first ER batch according to David's post.
     

     
    The underframe was treated to a coat of home brew Tamiya underframe dust and details were picked out on the bogies etc. with dry brushing.
     

     
    Hand rails and door handles were picked out in brass and another coat of Klear sealed things. Panel lines on the doors were treated to a wash of mucky acrylic paint watered down and then wiped off with a damp cotton bud when starting to dry. I then sprayed a light coat of Tamiya matt varnish to blend things together.
     
    As a cheapy project I'm pleased with the result. It will never win awards but for what it is it fits the purpose.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  3. 46444
    A while back I ordered 3 un-decorated GWR Fruit 'D' wagons from Dapol. As you've previously guessed I do like Dapol for a source of modelling projects. 
     
    I understand the bodyshell for the Fruit 'D' has a venerable past and there are some dimensional inaccuracies. However Dapol have breathed life into it with a new chassis. With this I feel it makes suitable layout NPCS vehicle offering a bit of variety. 
     
     
    These 3 have received Lanarkshire Model Supplies buffers and roof ventilators which gives a bit more finesse. 
     
    The roof had been sprayed with Tamiya German Grey. The sides use a psuedo BR Crimson from Citadel brush applied and the chassis is sprayed with Tamiya NATO Black. Wheels are standard Dapol inked in with a black Sharpie indelible marker. 
     
     
    Transfers once more come from Cambridge Custom Transfers and were fixed with Johnson's Kleer. 
     
    I've used a wash of Vallejo acrylics to pick out detail. They await a dusting of track dirt from the airbrush shortly. 
     
     
    More soon and thanks for looking. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
     
  4. 46444
    Yesterday I received two pairs of finely etched 57xx sandbox pull rods from RT Models.
     
    They come complete with instructions. Along with the the two external rods is an internal linkage rod as well. I'm going to omit this on this 9717 and on 5798 too. The instructions supplied are self explanatory and I added the 90 degree bend in the etch at the sandbox filler end. Following a coat of primer I brush painted some Precision GWR green to finish.
     
    Looking at prototype photos of 57xx's it looks as if the bend in the rod goes towards the rear of the wheel arch. In doing so this leaves a gap between the end of the etch and the sandbox filler cap. The colour photos I have in my reference books aren't very clear in this area but it looks as if there's a linkage between the rod and the filler cap. Hopefully, the photo below will make things clearer. Does anyone have any idea how this attaches?
     

     
    Here's a few progress shots of 9717. Still no buffer beam numbers or number plates. I've readjusted the front lamp irons because I'd made a right mess of positioning them and added the handrails above the centre footstep from Gibson handrail knobs and wire. The existing handrails were painted GWR green accept around the front.
     

     
    Vacuum pipes have been replaced with white metal ones and I've added checker plate squares to the top of the buffers
     
    Following on from CK's earlier advice I just need to rectify the front footsteps either side of the smokebox door (See Part 1) then hopefully I can finish of detailing and weathering.
     
    The proposed crew are seen bailing out of the cab. One is an old Airfix/Dapol figure on the firemans side. Not sure about the provenance of the driver though? For GWR crews I would imagine their uniforms wouldn't be as pale as this-perhap darker blue? Though we are talking post war and uniforms faded I guess.
     

     
    The other question to finish is concerning the light positions. For branch freight/mineral train would there be a lamp on the top of the smoke box and one above the left buffer? (This is standing facing the loco head on)
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  5. 46444
    'Hello. Welcome and Good Evening' as a well known TV presenter who once lived in Raunds, Northamptonshire might have said.
     
    Sat on my workbench for a number of years have been two partially completed Dapol/Airfix Prestwin wagon kits.
     
    These kits stem from Airfix, being released in 1964. However, Rosebud/Kitmaster originating from Raunds had been taken over by Airfix in the early 1960's.
     
    From memory the current incarnation of this kit from Dapol has soft recycled plastic. Thankfully they still go together nicely. 
     
     
    Originally, I was batch building four of these kits. Two were for good friends and were completed. With a recent week off work I decided to clear out a number of outstanding wagon projects including the two remaining Prestwin's.
     
     
     
    Both kits had Alan Gibson wheels fitted. In addition to this Mr.Franks finest  Lanarkshire Model Supplies (LMS) cast buffers and coupling hooks were fitted. 
     
    Sprayed with Halfords grey plastic primer Revell and Valejo acrylics were brush applied. Once dry a light coat of Halfords Satin Varnish was applied. 
     
    Transfers are from Fox and sealed with Johnson's Kleer. Once more a light dusting Halfords Satin sealed everything. Weathering and couplings await.
     
    These old Dapol/Airfix kits build up nicely, and once more show a cost effective means of acquiring new wagons. 
     
     
    What with the Kitmaster and the Sir David Frost connection, as well as the shoe factory famous for the 'Kinky Boots' musical, Raunds should certainly be on the map. 
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
  6. 46444
    The Oxford Rail J27 is an excellent model and something of a bargain to boot.
     
    I picked up an Early Crest example when they first appeared. It ran smoothly and had no problems when running in. 
     
    Looking through The Last Years of  North Eastern Steam by Tuffrey I found a suitable prototype to model in the form of 65802 of Percy Main shed photographed at Blaydon in fairly clean condition.
     
    I wonder whether Oxford Rail will offer versions with modified boiler domes for longer lasting prototypes? 
     
    Out of interest has anyone changed the dome for a later example and where did they source them from? 
     
    With my J27 I removed the cabside numbers with T-Cut and cotton buds. I then painted in the ledges of the cab windows with Vallejo black paint. The very bright cab interior also received a few washes as well. 
     
    Fox Transfers were used to renumber the model to 65802 with Percy Main shed plate (52E) from the same source. 
     

     
    The factory paint work of the model was lifted with brush applied Johnson's Kleer. I applied two coats of this. 

     
    The undernourished smokebox door dart was replaced with one from Eileen's Emporium.
     
    I masked off the smokebox and sprayed it with Tamiya Flat Black. I used the same paint for the cab roof and tender coal bunker and water filler area as well. 
     
    I build up the form of the coal bunker with Plasticard sealing a load of Liquid Lead weight in the bunker area to add weight to the extremely light tender. 
     
    Real crushed coal was glued into the bunker area using PVA. 
     

     
    The coupling rods were inked in with a silver Sharpie pen then a couple of washes of Vallejo German Grey and Dark Rust gave the desired effect. 
     
    Dry brushing with Vallejo and Games Workshop acrylics picked out raised detail. 
     
    The excellent Pacific Models supplied the smokebox door number plate. 
     
    Crew are the usual suspects from Airfix/Dapol and LNER lamps are from Lanarkshire Models. 
     
    I need to fire up the airbrush to tweak the weathering then finished. 
     
    Congratulations to Oxford Rail for producing a great model. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
  7. 46444

    Pannier capers

    By 46444,

    Evening.
     
    A quick update on 9717's progress.
     
    Following on from starting the weathering yesterday I muttered a few words about opening rear cab doors and adding lamp irons etc,
     
    My mind was made up when I re-read PMP's blog for Albion Yard set in the Forest of Dean capturing the works of Ben Ashworth nicely in model form. Other than the rake of Berry Wiggins tank wagons which kind of encapsulates the Forest is the close attention to detail Paul has applied to the ubiquitous Pannier tanks based on the Bachmann model.
     
    Here's the link to the excellent blog and well worth a read through. Brillaint photography and some pictures of the procedure I followed when modifying 9717 this morning.
     
    http://albionyard.wordpress.com/
     
    Here's a photo of the bunker end having been modified with open rear cab doors, lamp irons bent up from staples and the cab roof shutter opened up-replaced by one cut from brass sheet. I also cut the moulded coal away having removed the bunker moulding from the cab . In doing so the green semi-circle (Think this is the hand brake housing) comes with it and needs cleaning up and gluing back into place.
     

     
    I then gently sprayed Precision GWR green to affected areas requiring touching in. This appeared to be a good match for the Bachmann GWR green.
     
    The front end has received the full complement of lamp irons once more bent up from staples and touched in with Tamiya NATO black.
     

     
    Also you'll notice I've given the cab sides a blow over of Precision GWR green to hide the printed number plates ready for the Fox etched replacements and the weight restriction spots.
     
    Next job is to make up the sand box rod pulls working from photographs and add the buffer beam numbers.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    19.43 As an addendum this morning I took a photo of the sandbox pull levers I made up from brass rod filed flat. The picture illustrates one side affixed with genuine GWR Blutac! So I'm led to believe. Not sure whether to go down this route or get the RT Models etched ones. What do you think?
     

     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  8. 46444
    I'm a real fan of the Oxford Rail 7 Plank RCH wagon. I realise it's not perfect but it is has a number of merits including price.
     
    I've a few of these including a couple I've weathered for my 1947 Teign Valley project. Some of them where bought with a view to repainting them into scruffy 1950's/1960's BR ex-private owner wagons. Paul Marshall Potter (PMP) on his excellent Albion Yard blog wrote an article on converting them to this state.
     
    https://albionyard.wordpress.com/2016/03/16/nine-is-the-magic-number/
     
    One thing I liked was the use of the Modelmaster decals for ex-private wagons which would certainly save a great deal of time.
     
    The wagons themselves breakdown nicely into their component parts. I used a mixture of a glass fibre burnishing stick and Humbrol enamel thinners to remove the printed liveries. A coat of Halfords grey plastic primer was then applied. Using prototype photos I worked up the wagon sides with a brush to resemble weathered unpainted planking using Valejo acrylics inside and out. One of the wagons was also sprayed with Tamiya Japanese Navy Grey to represent a recently painted wagon for a spot of variety.
     

     
    The white door stripe was masked off with Tamiya tape and very light grey was dry lightly brushed over the ironwork. A light coat of Humbrol Kleer was then brushed over the wagons as a gloss surface for the Modelmaster Decals which went on nicely and received a coat of Micosol setting solution to give a better painted on look. Must say these really are time savers like I mentioned earlier.
     

     
    Finally I dry brushed some Valejo dark rust and Games Workshop gun metal over the raised iron work and buffer heads. All was sealed with a coat of airbrush applied Valejo matt varnish.
     

     
    Pleased with how these have turned out and a nice variation to the wagon fleet.
     
    Happy New Year,
     
    Mark
  9. 46444
    Bit of an update on the wagon building miscellany. 
     
    The Three Peaks Models, Lancashire & Yorkshire Low Goods Wagons are coming on well. I must say how pleased I am with these kits. 
     
    Following on from reading Jonathan's West End Workbench, I decided to drill out the axle boxes to receive Alan Gibson brass bearings.
     

     
     

     
    One is finished in BR unfitted grey. The other is in late LMS livery. Sole bars are to be painted brown on the latter. 
     

     
    The LMS version will recieve BR numbers/patching etc.
     
    The Airfix/Mainline BR/WR/ex-GWR Bogie Bolster A  has been weathered.
     

     

     
    Again a selection of Valejo and Revell acrylics have been used. Weathering to be finished as above. Load to be added. Any ideas for suitable metal chains to secure the load?
     
    The Oxford Rail 7 plank RCH wagon in Napsbury Mental Hospital livery. I believe this institution was near to St. Albans on the Midland Mainline?
     

     
    Totally fictitious I'd imagine but finished as an ex-private owner wagon in BR condition. Weathering effects to be finished. Valejo acrylics and Fox Transfers used in this instance.

     
    This Oxford Rail LNER 5 plank wagon received the same treatment.

     

     
    The Airfix LMS 5 plank wagon, re-chassied with a  Ratio 10ft RCH chassis is ready for weathering. Fox Transfers once more.
     

     
     
    I do think this shows how good the Airfix LMS 5 plank moulding is and benefits from  a few tweaks.
     
    The BR/WR permanent way wagon selection is progressing nicely as well.  Transfers are courtesy of Cambridge Custom Transfers and John Isherwood of this parish.
     

     
     
    Below is the the excellent Chivers P23 Tunny kit.
     

     
    The Cambrian P18 kit is progressing nicely. The CO insignia stands for 'Chief Office'
     

     

     
    Finally the old Ian Kirk P19 kit awaits weathering.
     

     

     
    These wagons will receive a coat of Halfords Satin varnish to bed the transfers down before weathering.
     
    More soon....
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
  10. 46444
    In one one of my last post's concerning stock for Juniper Hill-my Northamptonshire Ironstone micro-layout I posted some pictures of the Hornby J94/Hunslet I'm working on called 'Cranford'.
     
    Paul (Halfwit) suggested I could improve around the injectors by cutting and drilling away excess plastic as he had done. I think he mentioned Chris Nevard had done something similiar.
     
    The easy way out would be to just cut them off and use some RT cast injectors but I went with Paul's advice and was impressed how easily the operation went. In a matter of minutes the excess plastic was removed and a new pipe made from brass wire was bent up and glued in place.
     
    Final details were crew from Dapol (Airfix), real coal, RT Models oil cans, lamp brackets from bent up staples and a homemade Stones turbo generator.
     
    Here's the finished result.
     

     

     
    Also, I've finished detailing the Sentinel 'Twywell' with real coal in the bunker area, crew and an oil can from RT Models.
     

     

     
    Both models are finished with Tamiya/Vallejo acrylics. Nameplates/worksplates custom made by the excellent Narrow Planet.
     
    I'd like to thank Paul for his suggestion on the injectors-it has made a difference.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  11. 46444
    Recently Oxford Diecast introduced a range of traction engines in their OO gauge range of vehicles. The Fowler steam roller called 'Lord Jellicoe' caught my eye. I thought it would make a nice change on my proposed Teign Valley quarry based layout set in the late 1940's.
     
    Here we see John Luscombe of 'Luscombe Contractors Kingsteignton' making his way up the Teign Valley towards Ashton for a spot of road repairs. He's pulled over and talking to the fireman on GWR Pannier 9717 shunting wagons at the nearby quarry close to Trusham.
     

     
    As it comes the model is in full gloss finish and portrayed as an example seen at the Blandford Steam Fair I do believe? Not knowing a great deal about traction engines I might have to wing this a bit .
     
    Anyhow, I used my usual trusty weathering techniques which involved a coat of Johnson's Klear as a base coat followed by dry brushing and washes of Vallejo acryilics. Coal was placed in the bunker and John Luscombe is one of the excellent Monty's figures. I resprayed the canopy and finished this with Tamiya colours. A further coat of Klear followed by some Tamiya matt varnish airbrushed on sealed everything together.
     

     
    The plan is to scratch build a caravan for the Fowler to tow so I'm looking at prototypes.
     

     
    As for 9717 she's nearly finished so watch this space.
     
    The Fowler steam roller has been a nice little project and something unusual as well-for me anyway.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  12. 46444
    A little bit of progress today on this build. I've replaced the top panel in the centre above the doors I removed on these two 16 Tonners. Suitable width plastic sheet was used for this. Trusty Micro-Strip then replaced the beading and door locking latches. 
     

     
    I've also tidied up the area around the bottom of the doors to try to look more prototypical. The kit doors are designed to open but in this case are glued shut. 
     

     
    Essentially other than the Lanarkshire Model Supplies buffers I need to order and fit the wagons will be ready for the paint shop. 
     
    I would like to add the tie bars. Does anyone know of suitable brass strip for the job?
     
    Also I know some of these wagons were vacuum braked with brake cylinders. Were others just through piped? 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark
     
  13. 46444
    Some of you will know I do like the 1950's/1960's micro cars and courtesy of Oxford a Messerschmitt three wheeler often appears on my layouts.
     
    Recently I was researching Southern Railway push-pull coaches and came across the excellent Blood & Custard Southern/BR Southern Region reference site. 
     
    This article was of some interest:
     
    https://www.bloodandcustard.net/BMWIsetta.html
     
    It appears BMW built their Isetta micro-car in the old LBSC/SR/BR railway works after it closed in the late 1950's.
     
    Here's a link to the Issetta/BMW Owners Club giving some history of production:
     
    https://www.isetta.org.uk/page16.html
     
    The photographs on the Blood & Custard website show new Isettas loaded three to a Lowfit wagon for distribution.
     
    Coincidently I was converting two old Mainline Lowfit wagons by fitting Parkside LMS 'J' hanger underframe kits.
     
    Additional details came from Lanarkshire Model Supplies and wheels from Alan Gibson. The Lowfits are essentially finished needing weathering and couplings fitted. 
     

     
    The prototype BMW Isettas were finished in an assortment of colours including two tone schemes. A list can be found in the Blood & Custard article.
     
    Oxford make a small number of colours at present in OO including the interesting RAC version. I chose four red and two yellow versions as loads for the Lowfits.
     

     
    The Oxford Isettas capture the prototype nicely. I will give them a coat of varnish to tone down the bling effect.
     
    One thing I have started to do is remove the numberplates from the models as they would not have registered before delivery to a dealer.
     
    To do this I am using T-cut and gently rubbing it away with a cotton bud and a blunt cocktail stick.
     

     
    Since this photo was taken I have used a Sharpie permanent marker to ink in the windscreen rubber surrounds. The red versions have this already. 
     
    I have tried to find a picture of the prototype method of securing the Isettas to the load bed. There are eight securing rings on the Lowfits.
     

     
    I presume rope would have been used around the wheels and not chains. Also would wooden chocks have be used? Any information would be appreciated.
     
    Thanks in advance and more soon.
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
  14. 46444
    Sometimes partners go together quite well. There's been Cagney and Lacey and Morse and Lewis for example.
     
    Now we have Phoebe and Teign who will be the industrial motive power on my Teign Valley project. Phoebe will also migrate to the East Midlands for work on Juniper Hill when required also.
     
    I've discussed the build of Phoebe in other entries but she was all but finished except for her name and works plates. These are custom made ones from the excellent Narrow Planet team and are works of art in their own right. Here's the link to Narrow Planet:
     
    http://narrowplanet.co.uk/
     
    Here she is in all her glory complete with Manning Wardle works plates.
     

    Phoebe and Teign (2) 28-10-13 006rmweb by kettering15b, on Flickr
     
    Teign is a Model Rail/Dapol Sentinel that has been weathered and nameplates attached once again from Narrow Planet.
     
     

    Phoebe and Teign (2) 28-10-13 009rmwebTeign by kettering15b, on Flickr
     
    The narrow gauge wagon in the background of both the shots is one that came as a free gift when joining the 009 Society. It is a Colin Ashby kit that was surplus to requirements so I finished it in a battered state.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  15. 46444
    Apologies to Steve Austin/The Six Million Dollar Man and reference to the cult 1970's TV programme. 
     
    Likewise BR started a rebuild programme of its venerable 16T mineral wagons later in their lives. This entailed new build body work and removal of the top flap door amongst other things.
     
    For more indepth knowledge it's probably best to consult a suitable reference resource. 
     
    From my teenage years long before the likes of Parkside/Bachmann the Airfix 16T Mineral Wagon was the only way to go for the correct 9ft wheelbase chassis. The ready to run boys were using a stretched body fitted to a standard 10ft wheelbase. 
     
    An article from the Railway Modeller at the time discussed modelling suitable prototypes from this kit including 13T Sand Wagons and Iron Ore Tippers. Sadly I lost the article many years ago but it remains influential
     
    Recently I picked two of these kits up for less than £7 in their Dapol incarnation and they remain one of the nicest builds still. The kits almost falling together. 
     
    I decided I wanted to follow in the footsteps of the Six Million Dollar Man and modify the body to represent a rebuild minus top door. 
     
    Here's a reference photo from Paul Bartlett's excellent site:
     
    https://paulbartlett.zenfolio.com/mineralmortonmxv/h10e54237
     
    In true lack of reference photos I went ahead and removed the top doors on the wagons thinking this correct. I then filled the area with suitable thickness plastic sheet. 
     

     
    Eventually by checking my references I realised the rib above the side doors should be removed.
     
    Drastic action was taken and the middle panel was removed. 
     

     
    Then using the door as a guide the wagon sides were re-united from the component parts. 

     
    Finally the chassis builds up easily.  Supplied Dapol wheels were coulered with a permanent black Sharpie pen. 

     
    Tomorrow I'll replace the body work above the doors with plastic sheet and add the ribbing from Micro-Strip.
     
    Need to order buffers from LMS and source suitable 1970's era markings. Hopefully Railtec will come up trumps. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark
     
     
     
     
     
  16. 46444
    Managed to do a few more bits on the 'H' Class over the past few days including fitting the cut section of tubing under the saddle tank to represent the boiler. Thank's to Ruston's measurements of his Ixion 7mm version I was able to work out a rough figure for the depth between the bottom of the saddle tank and the running plate. The photos below show the model held together once more with Blu-tac.
     

     

     
    Thankfully, I managed to make up the smokebox door straps fairly successfully with Micro-strip, though looking at the picture it looks as if the top one has a slight 'wonk' on. No SOS calls to Robert at RT Models! The smokebox door wheel is a combination of a Comet smokebox door dart and a Mainly Trains etched wheel from one of the excelllent detailing etched frets they do. I've bent up a lamp iron too from a staple.
     

     
    To the rear I've added to brackets once again made from staples. I forgot to mention in the first post that handbrake housing on the rear panel is a piece of vacuum cylinder from a Parkside kit. Inside the cab I've added bracing to the rear panel,
     

     
    Here's the final view for this evening. The other thing I've done to the cab is added beading around the side cab windows again using Micro-strip. I've made provision for cab door handrails too. The leaf springs are once again from the excellent RT Models.
     

     
    At the moment the loco is sat on a non-working chassis but I'll be getting one next week so as to finalise the build and add the roof. I might look at adding the handrails over the weekend but other than assembly the main work is done. I will be adding the pipe work for the sand pipes and will remove the sandboxes from the new chassis when it arrives.
     
    Steve at Narrow Planet is going to make me up a set of Manning-Wardle works plates and a nameplate as well. I'm looking forward to receiving these. (I've gone for a work number of 1783 and build date of 1912-Totally fictitious of course)
     
    This has been a lovely build so far and really enjoyable.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  17. 46444
    A good friend of mine in his 70's who worked on the railways told me of a story where a L & Y Pug was brought down from Derby to take a large piece of equipment up one of the ironstone quarry lines around Wellinborough. The rationale being that it's short wheelbase would be suitable for the job and once completed the loco was returned to Derby shed.
     
    In homage to this story I've taken a few shots of my Pug which isn't Derby allocated I know.
     
    One of the reasons for these photos is to illustrate some of the wagons I have been working on for Juniper Hill. First up is the Bachmann Stewarts & Lloyds 8 plank wagon weathered with Tamiya/Vallejo acrylics to represent an old private owner taken into BR stock with replacement planks etc. I still need to add the numbers etc. This wagon is a complete work of fiction of course and would more than likely just been an internal user wagon in reality.
     

     
    Secondly, Bachmann have once again come up trumps for modellers of ironstone layouts with their representation of a 1940 Charles Roberts 16T BSCO iron ore tippler wagon. Paul Bartlett's site has few photos of these wagons stating they were later used for coal traffic and I've seen film evidence of this with a 9F hauling a southbound coal train north of Loughborough in the early 60's. They are interesting wagons still running in the 1970's with split spoke wheels as Paul's photos taken at Wellingborough illustrate.
     

     
    I've four of these wagons. Three are from a Modelzone weathered set which isn't the best weathering I've seen being the usual blast of track colour on the underframe and lower body sides which doesn't look like the weathering on the wagons on Paul Bartlett's site. Some of the wagons look suprisingly clean too in reality. The fourth wagon was an unweathered version.
     
    With these I sprayed the inside of the wagon with NATO black followed by Tamiya hull red. The underframes where sprayed with my homebrew underframe dirt mixture then details picked out around the axle boxes and springs.
     
    Then the sides of the wagon were dry brushed with some Vallejo colours to represent wear.
     
    Finally the Pug is the Hornby offering that has been renumbered, detailed and weathered. Crew from the excellent Monty's range of figures.
     

     
    Here she is at rest in between jobs. The subsidance in the area is quite bad too!
     

     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  18. 46444
    Evening,
     
    After my 009 diversional therapy (see previous entry) I thought I better get back to the micro-layout I'm building called Juniper Hill (JH) which is based on the ironstone quarry lines of Northamptonshire around Kettering/Corby.
     
    I really need to get in the garage and start the track laying and wiring. Once this is done I can at least start playing trains
     
    However, there were a few bits on the workbench to finish including these two locos that will form part of the motive power. I'm tempted to get a Hattons/Heljan ex BR Class 14 in BSC ownership as well. I've seen some nice shots of these locos running around Corby in the 1970's and the shed at Gretton Brook looks interesting.
     
    Here's a link with a few photos of Class 14's in that area:
     

     
    These two locos I'm building do not represent any protype's as such and are based on the motive power that worked the quarry lines. They also carry names which were carried by locomotives in real life.
     
    First up is an Hunslet design which began life as a Hornby J94 in private owner livery. I've made a few alterations basing the look on the RSH built locos that worked around Corby.
     

     
    I've added headlights made from Cambrian wagon kit sprue, opened the cab roof vent and replaced it with one cut from sheet brass. I'm waiting on a new set of buffer beams to come from RT Models then these will be added along with a set of Comet BR buffers.
     
    I've sprayed this loco in the style carried by the RSH designs using Tamiya acrylics. I've preshaded the panel lines before spraying the green on which I think worked well. Masked off the lining with Tamiya tape before spraying. At present I've sprayed 'Klear' over the loco to provide a nice sheen prior to weathering.
     
    Narrow Planet provided the custom nameplates-this loco being called 'Cranford'. I'm just waiting on the Hunslet builders plate to come when the next batch of etching is complete.
     
    Next up is a Model Rail Sentinel. This started life as one of the GSR of Ireland versions. I thought this would be the easiest to strip off the numbers/crests etc as it only has a small number on each side and on the buffer beams.
     
    I've put new handrails on it in the style of Chris Nevard's take on his Sentinel. I didn't alter the moulded coal though and have left this and will put real coal in once finished.
     
    This Irish version didn't come with a whistle so I found an Hornby one in my spares box which as been fitted.
     

     
    I finished this loco as above with custom nameplates from Narrow Planet once again. This Sentinel carries the name 'Twyell'
     

     
    Obviously this loco is loosely based on 'Isebrook' that worked at Thomas E Gray's in Burton Latimer and is now preserved at Quainton Road.
     
    There are a few bits to do on these two locos and I will post an update soon when finished.
     
    Now where's that soldering iron and the track cutters?!!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    I think the driver of the Sentinel must have fish paste sarnies because there's a few cats around!
  19. 46444
    Over the weekend I had a chance to crack on with working on 7802. He she is completed and I'm really pleased with the finished result:
     

     
    The main focus of attention has been in the cab area where I made new flush glazing from an Oxford Diecast clear plastic box. The cab interior received the cut down David Geen screw reverser and scratch built ATC bell. The cab tarpaulin/sheet was made from a piece of blue masking tape rolled up with tapes made from the same source, This was painted with Valejo acrylics and fixed to the inside of the cab roof with a few dabs of super glue. Finally the wonderful fold down GWR cab seats were also made up from scratch.
     
    To me these improvements have certainly lifted the model but with crew insitu they are not easy to see. The crew come from my stash of Dapol figures:
     

     
    I wanted 7802 to look 'lived in' so I used a mixture of Valejo German Grey, Hull Red and Gun Metal to lift the detail on the model and also lift the paintwork through the use of dry brushing and washes.
     

     
    Hopefully the look is of a loco which has received the oily rag treatment. To achieve this I gently rubbed the paintwork with a clean dry cotton buds as well as buffing the paintwork with my finger tip to add a patina.
     

     
    You'll notice I've added the steps on the buffer shanks as well made up from Mainly Trains etched tread plate. I decided to keep the water filler lid shut in the end!
     
    I need to source the mouldings for the brake gear pull rods and will fit them when they become available.
    Overall I'm pleased with the finished result and now I've got a decent running representation of a late GWR period Manor Class which as many of you know rates as one of my favourite loco designs.
     
    Of course DJM Models will announce a modern version at Warley to a standard the same as the Hattons King Class!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  20. 46444
    Over the weekend I picked up two very cheap Airfix/Dapol wagons. Both of these had LMS origins and as I had two Ratio 10ft RCH underframes in my spares box I thought they'd make a nice couple of projects. So off with the original chassis' and the wagon bodies were put in a plastic bag with copious amounts of Mr Muscle Oven Cleaner and the paint speedily stripped off in less than an hour.
     
    First up is the Dapol LMS three plank which I believe is based on a D1927 wagon. I think Mainline and now Bachmann use this moulding. The body was mated to the Ratio chassis and them given a coat of Halifords grey primer.
     
    Wheels for both wagons are Hornby, and they were both weighted with alloy wheel self adhesive balance weights (10g).
     
    I wanted to finish this wagon in wartime austerity livery-i:e the wood planks not being painted, just the iron work and underframe. A mixture of Games Workshop and Valejo acrylics were dry brushed on, followed by a mucky wash of Valejo black and dark earth.
     
    The black panels were masked off and sprayed and HMRS transfers used to represent this wagon, that was in reality built at Derby in 1945.
     
    A dusting of traffic grime on the underframe and wheels was sprayed using a mixture of Revell and Humbrol enamels before being sealed with Precision matt varnish to blend things all together.
     

     

     
    The second wagon started life as an Airfix private owner, but looking in my Essary and Morgan 'The LMS Wagon' identified it as a D 1892 wagon built in the mid-30's. I wanted this one finished in BR livery though as a fitted example.
     
    The procedure was almost the same for this wagon, except I had to shorten the brake levers and sourced 4 more brake hangers from the spares box. Finishing as above.
     

     
    Finally, I recently got one of those Hornby Trackside Ruston Bucyrus 19-RB excavators and thought it to would make a great little project. The worst thing about this model is the solid cast chassis and caterpillar tracks. I wanted to try and make it more realistic and bring out the detail.
     
    The chassis was taken off and sprayed with red primer, followed by spraying the underframe and running gear with an Humbrol grey enamel I had to hand. Then each of the links on the caterpillar tracks was sprayed in a variety of Humbrol/Revell enamel shades of black and brown to give some variation. This was followed by a dark wash of thinned enamels and left to dry.
     
    Then, some MIG weathering powder was used-dry and wet to represent earth on the tracks and running gear.
     
    The body was then attacked. I lightly sprayed Revell No:365, which is a slighty lighter shade of green compared to the factory finish around the central area of all the panels to represent fading. Once dry a dark wash was applied and wiped off before finishing with some MIG Powders. Then the chassis and body were sealed with Precision Matt varnish.
     

     

     

     
    Three quick projects and two cheap wagons to boot. Perhaps not one for rivet counters but this project used up some left over bits in the spares box and gives a fare representation of these LMS wagon diagrams. In some respects it shows how well Airfix/Mainline produced such good quality mouldings in the 70's/80's, and by updating the running gear a reasonably cheap wagon can be made-or two!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  21. 46444
    Bit an update on the progress of my model of Newton Abbot's 9717.
     
    Following on from a discussion in the last entry regarding the position of the sandbox filler lids on the Bachmann Pannier here's the real thing on the South Devon Railway's L92.
     

     
    As we can see on the prototype the lids are actually in line with the front of the smokebox as opposed to the Bachmann model that has them situated closer to the buffer beam.
     
    Here's my model of 9717 progressing nicely showing the sandbox filler lids in relation to the RT Models sand box pull rods.
     

     
    Robert's etches are an exact match for the protoype so in theory the lids need moving backwards on the model version. I did try to see how well they were glued and in this instance I left well alone. They were stuck fast and I thought attempting to move them may course a lot of damage and it's something I can live with.
     
    Finally. a shot taken on JH of 9717. I've added the Fox buffer beam numbers and the HMRS 'blue circles' to the cab sides The Fox numberplates are excellent but I think I may need to revisit fireman's side as the plate doesn't look level.
     

     
    I've decided to fit screw\three links to the stock for myTeign Valley Project so I've a pair of Smiths ones on order. A few other jobs and finish the weathering then 9717 will be almost complete.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  22. 46444
    Eventually I've completed my take on Gloucester 85B resident 46526 using the excellent Bachmann model as a starting point. 
     

     
    The DMR chimney has bedded in nicely on the smokebox. Pacific Models provided the source of the  smokebox door number plate. A Fox Transfers 85B shed code plate transfer was applied as well. 
     

     
    Usual weathering techniques using Tamiya NATO Black/Brown airbrushed for frame dirt. A dusting of NATO black was used on the boiler top and tender coal bunker sides as per prototype photos. 

     
    Real coal was added to the tender and the cab roof buffed to give an element of wear and tear. 
     

     
    Crew once more were a combination of the excellent Hornby and Dapol/Airfix figures painted with Vallejo acrylics. 
     
    Detail painting and dry brushing using a mix of Vallejo and Citadel paints. The tender axle boxes and steps in particular. 
     

     
    Overall a lovely project using a cheaply sourced second hand loco. Just need to add some lamps from Modelu now. 
     
    One for the Forest of Dean Project representing that lost photo of 46526 taken at Bilson Junction by no other than Ben Ashworth. Or was it Jonty Jarvis and his trusty Thornton Pickard camera? 
     
     
     
  23. 46444
    Some of you may know that the GWR 78xx Manor Class is one of my favourite engine designs.
     
    Perhaps this comes from the Mainline model of the 1980's and seeing 7808 Cookham Manor at Didcot as a teenager.
     
    Believe it or not I never owned a Mainline version. Just the reblown Bachmann version with updated chassis. 
     
    I remember trying to detail and renumber these as well as putting a correct profile chimney on them. Infact gwrrob of this parish and ANTB fame may have my version of 7807 Compton Manor on shed still.
     
    Over the past few years Dapol announced their new version of the Manor and I was ready to pre-order one when Accurascale announced their version. I went with the new boys and ordered one of their's which promises to be something really special.
     
    However, the recent release of the Dapol version got me interested again. A lot of comnents were made about inaccuracies in the firebox shape. It began to feel as if Dapol had misfired and Accurascale are waiting in the wings to clean up.
     
    Being one for supporting the underdog I thought I would bite the bullet and see what the Dapol model was really like. I duly ordered 7827 Lydham Manor from Kernow Model Railway Centre and it arrived safely. Excellent service as ever from the Cambourne team.
     

     
    The packaging and presentation of the model is excellently done. On examining the model you can see Dapol have made an excellent job of portraying the prototype.
     
    To me there is a familiarity about the Manor design perhaps from detailing Bachmann models and having a fair few books with pictures of the Class as reference.
     
    The list of things that stood out for me as needing attention were identified as the following:
     
    1. The 'blingtastic' safety valve cover.
    2. The under nourished smokebox numberplate.
    3. The green paintwork looked a bit flat in my eyes.
    4. Those tyre rims on the wheels.
    5. Black plastic crosshead.
     
    Within minutes of opened the box I was armed with a black Sharpie permanent marker and inked in the wheels. The valve gear including crosshead was treated to a coating of silver from the same stable.
     
    This was the end of play on the first day.
     

     
    So essentially some attention with a couple of Sharpie pens addresses some of the issues.
     
    On my next decent modelling session I blackened the buffers with Birchwood Casey Gun Blue have burnished them first with fine wet and dry.
     

     
    The paintwork was nicely lifted with two coats of Johnson's Kleer floor polish. 
     

     
    The 'blingtastic' safety valve cover was toned down with brush applied Valejo mat varnish. Two coats in this instance. Then using Valejo Old Wood beige coloured paint 2 coats once more gave a base layer. After this I made a blend of Games Workshop metallic colours (Names to be added as away and pots not to hand). 
     

     
    The copper cap capped chimney and smokebox were masked off with Tamiya tape as was the cab roof. Using Tamiya Flat Black I sprayed these in along with the running plate and black areas of the tender.
     

     
    Although the Dapol model comes with separate cabside numberplates to fit over the printed versions I fancied trying the 3D printed ones produced by Railtec. Steve supplied some excellent 3D printed numberplates, shed code plate and smoke box numberplate.
     

     
    Wonderful service and a brilliant product. Easily fixed into position with a dab of Kleer. Well recommended.
     
    In my eyes they also address in my eyes the issue of the under nourished smokebox numberplate. It also adds a bit more interest to the front in my eyes.
     

     
    The nameplate is the factory fitted Dapol version by the way. 
     
    With regards to the tender I filed down the distal side of the coal load insert. This was to help with adding a real coal load. Glued in I then coated the insert with PVA and added real crushed coal and allowed to dry. 
     

     
    A spare set of Bachmann fire irons finish the tender detailing.
     

     
    I should have mentioned the detail in the cab. Its exquisite only lacking the fold down seats. I like the ATC bell housing.
     

     

     
    Essentially in my eyes the remedial work has been completed and addresses the issues I highlighted earlier. As it stands it would be for many a good point to leave the project and have an excellent model of a Manor. 
     

     
    What I do plan to do to finish things off is fit a Modelu crew and their GWR/BR (WR) lamps. Finally it will receive a light in service weathering then 7827 is ready for service. 
     
    I am quiet tempted to give the model the Royal Train embellishments of white paint as well it received in the early 1960's along with other members of the class.
     
    I'll let you make your own mind up on the Dapol Manor but overall I am very impressed all round with it. Final thoughts on the next instalment.
     

     
    7827 Lydham Manor running light at Talledega in 1963. Captured by Jonty Jarvis 
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 😉
     
    Apologies for typos and poor grammar...To be corrected...
     
  24. 46444
    Whilst in Devon recently I popped into Express Way Models at the South Devon Railway. Being a member of the SDR you get a discount in the shop. Pauline the shop manager is very helpful too. Having a browse around the shop I saw one of the PECO O Gauge 16T Mineral wagon kits for sale and treated myself.
     
    On getting home and opening the kit up I was impressed. Everything you need bar glue and paint is included. In this instance some PC Transfers so I've a feeling this is an old kit-though I may be wrong and PECO may have an old stock of PC Transfers. The quality of the mouldings is first class and the kit falls together almost.
     
    I did deviate away from the instructions and assembed the three side panels including the doors on a plate of glass rather than individually to the floor fearing parts may not match up. Also the kit is designed for the side doors and end door to be made to open, although in this case I glued them shut.
     
    One area I'm not sure on with the kit is the choice of a pressed steel tipping door on the end. I need to check the numbers included on the transfer sheet with my reference to confirm this is right. I guess Paul Bartlett may know, but I'm sure this isn't correct.
     
    I blackened the wheels/buffers/three link couplings with Birchwood Casey Gun Blue then polished them. The wagon was given a coat of Halfords grey plastic primer followed by a total covering of Tamiya NATO black. Then the inside of the wagon and the sides where lightly sprayed with Tamiya Hull Red. Once all dry I used some Vallejo masking fluid to make rusty type patterns on the side of the wagon in the style of Martyn Welch's weathering technique but using acrylics rather than enamels.
     
    Next up was a coat of Tamiya Japanese Army Grey to the sides of the wagon. The door end stripes, bottom door markings and the black panels were masked off and sprayed with Tamiya NATO black and Vallejo Old White.
     
    Where transfers were to be placed I brushed on some Johnson's Klear and once dry applied the decals which are like HMRS Pressfix ones (I believe HMRS took over PC's range of transfers). They were applied easily though and sealed with a further coat of Klear.
     
    Detail painting was carried out on the body with dry brushing using further Vallejo paints and the underframe was weathered using a mix of Tamiya NATO Black and Dark Earth. I then rubbed off the masking fluid rust patches on the side revealing a rusted metal effect. Dry brushing these patches with gun metal further enhanced them.
     

     
    To finish everything was brought together with a coat of Vallejo matt varnish.
     

     
    Overall this is an good kit to make and excellent value. I'm not sure about that pressed steel tipping door-perhaps the welded version should be included, so further clarrification may be needed on this.
     

     
    From a personal point of view I really enjoyed constructing the kit. The size of the wagon begins to emulate the real thing-something a 4mm/2mm wagon can't match. I'm pleased with the painting technique-something I've never tried before. I think one side is better than the other though personally. Also I should amend those bottom door markings-I think they're a bit wide.
     
    I'm debating on what kit to build next be it another PECO or venture out into a Slaters or Parkside kit. Either way it will be a generic 1950's prototype so as to keep my options open.
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    As an addendum I now own a length of PECO O Gauge track and a buffer stop. Does that construe an O Gauge layout?
  25. 46444
    Before I start thanks to Andy Y for his words of wisdom re: altering image sizes. I wish I'd have asked earlier!
     
    This is my first entry for a while now. I've been working on bits for Juniper Hill, my layout based around the ironstone lines of East Northamptonshire. Hopefully, with the spring coming-believe it or not I hope to get into the garage for some track laying and soldering.
     
    Fred the bus driver has known Doris his conductress for a number of years now. Doris had started working for United Counties in Northamptonshire during the war and had carried on in her role. She works with Fred who'd been demobbed in 1947.
     
    He'd worked for United Counties prior to the outbreak of hostilities and had served in the Army in Europe driving trucks. He returned home to his family in Kettering and started working for United Counties again.
     
    Fred and Doris enjoy one anothers company and particularly like the country routes on the eastern side of the county passing beautiful villages, some once home to hundreds of young American airman-the skies no longer angry with the sound of USAAF B17's.
     
    Along the route from Kettering to Oundle they pass the ironstone quarries around Cranford and pick up some quarry workers. Usually Fred and Dorris get a chance of a Woodbine and a cup of tea in Oundle prior to making their way back to Kettering.
     
    Here's Fred and Doris' bus they use for this journey. It's a Bedford OWB that has seen better days and the timber the body was built with is beginning to warp badly because it wasn't seasoned properly during the war years.
     

     
    Ok so a total work of fiction as is the bus which is a resprayed Oxford product with decals from Fox. Fred, Doris and the passengers come courtesy of Dapol (ex-Airfix) with a few amputations where necessary.
     
    I've tried to use the preshading technique on this bus using either Tamiya or Valejjo acrylics sealed with some Johnsons Klear.
     
    In fairness United Counties did have some Beagle bodied OB's in their fleet. However, there's something about the OWB I like and decided to go for this fictitious member of the fleet.
     

     
    Also another vehicle to make an appearance on JH will be this Base Toys or what ever they're called now AEC Monarch which I think is a lovely model in Pickfords livery. It comes with a trailer as well. I've used Glue n Glaze for the windows, Weathered it and added a sheeted load to the flat bed. Like the OWB I gently placed the finished model on an hot iron for a matter of seconds to gently flatten the tyres. Something I learnt from my aircraft modelling days.
     

     

     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
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