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46444

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  1. 46444
    When Hornby released their generic 4 and 6 wheeled coached I picked up a 6 wheeler to convert to an Engineer's Coach. 
     
    The coach was broken down into its component parts almost immediately.
     
    I made a scratch built solebar footstep from a piece of  Microstrip. This was held in place with brackets made from staples fixed into thd solebars.
     
     

     
    The original Hornby footboards had their stays removed and holes drilled for strong piano wire in their place. Recipricating holes were drilled in the floor of the coach. 
     
    On the foot boards cut outs were made for the axleboxes. Everything was then glued into place. 
     
    I changed the buffers and coupling hooks for some Lanarkshire Models versions from Mr. Frank's.
     

     
    I also replaced one of the battery boxes with a tank for variety.  The underframe was then sprayed with Halfords grey primer and satin black.
     
    The roof was hand painted with Vallejo acrylics and suitably weathered with a spray of Tamiya NATO black. 
     
    Some of the door window frames were painted a wood colour.
     
    Existing numbers were removed with a blunt cocktail stick and HMRS numbers used in their place. The 'D' and 'ED' transfers were from a CCT Grampus sheet. 
     

     
    Everything sealed with Klear brush painted then airbrushed with Vallejo satin varnish. 
     
    A wash of Vallejo acrylics was then applied and wiped off with a damp cotton bud. Underframe weathering was airbrushed on with an homebrew of Tamiya NATO Black and Brown. 
     
    I found a set of vacuum pipes to finish. 
     

     
    Overall a nice little project which in my eyes lifts the model nicely. 
     
    Here's an engineer's train  accompanyied by a an ex NBR J36. 
     

     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
     
  2. 46444
    Recently I've looked at reworking my model of 7802 Bradley Manor. It's been sat in a box having developed the dreaded uneven running associated with these split frame locos.
     
    Having acquired a more recently made working chassis the project can begin. I've never been happy with the finish on this loco. The Bachmann GWR green doesn't look right and I sprayed it with Humbrol satin varnish from a can in the days before I possessed an airbrush. To me it lacks that lustre found on a working locomotive and needs some weathering as well. I aim to either partially or totally respray the bodyshell and tender then using Kleer to build up a sheen before weathering and toning down.
     
    Here's the starting point:
     
    7802-29 ps by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Those of a nervous disposition look away now:
     
    7802-Part 2. 13.10.15 001 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    I've taken off the plates and have cleaned up the top of the firebox where I Superglued the DMR original style GWR Manor chimney. It wasn't straight in the first place either and I've a nice clean area to fix it to now. I achieved this using an assortment of files and a glass fibre burnishing pen.
     
    Also I've filed away the pronounced lip on the safety valve cover,
     
    The DMR chimney required some fettling to get a nice fit. I used a rolled up course piece of sandpaper and it worked a treat:
     
    7802-Part 2 ps2 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Here it is in place:
     
    7802-Part 2. 13.10.15 002 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Would anyone know if the Manor's carried brass window surrounds and brass splasher beading post war and would the safety valve cover be brass or painted?
     
    With the cab I intend to fit the screw reverser I got from David Geen and never fitted originally. It's a lovely casting that may be from the Malcolm Mitchell kit? I also made up an ATC bell and never fitted that either and it can be seen resting next to the left hand cab step. I'm going to use the Bachmann glazing but flush glaze the windows instead of using the one piece moulding. This will enable the reverser to fit more easily as well. I'd also fitted a cab fall plate in the past made from brass sheet and aim to put representations of the luxurious bucket seats fold down seats found in GWR locos.
     
    7802-Part 2 ps by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    The tender is detailed as such and just needs a few tweaks. The coal needs redoing for certain. I also added the posts for fixing the sheet over the cab previously. In postwar GWR times would the sheet be rolled up on the rear of the cab roof?
     
    I will need to add brake rodding as well.
     
    7802-Part 2. 13.10.15 004 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    The rear of the tender shows the Alan Gibson tappered Collett buffers I fitted. From an aesthetical point I debating on changing them to the straight variety. Also I am debating on leaving the water filler cover up as shown in the picture. I've seen pictures of this in BR days but would it have been fround upon in GWR times?
     
    7802-Part 2. 13.10.15 005 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Finally 6 of these arrived yesterday from POWSides!
     
    TVG 13.10.15 001 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    This is a later style livery on the Teign Valley Granite wagons with the Trusham rather than Bovey address and the panel on the door with the Roads Reconstruction Company name on the side too. This company absorbed many quarries before itself becoming part of Amey Road Stone, ARC then Hanson. The quarry at Trusham still exists with no sign of the extensive railway infrastructure remaining.
     
    The finish on the POWSides wagons is superb, Each one is individually numbered. Sadly they are to be finished in a postwar condition.....
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  3. 46444
    The venerable Hornby 9F has quite a provenance as we all know. Obviously the announcement of a new model brings the story up to date. 
     
    A couple of years ago I purchased a loco drive Hornby Railroad 9F.
     
    Looking through my well thumbed copy of Steam Railways In Colour Around Northamptonshire by Coleman & Rajczonek I found a photograph of 92231 hard at work at Desborough in 1965. At this time the locomotive was allocated to York. 
     
    The Hornby model captures the shape of the prototype nicely so I decided to bring it up to a more contemporary standard forgiving the punn.
     
    At the smoke box end I lowered the top lamp iron to the left side of the door using the Branson Staple Method. 
     
    Stays for the smoke deflectors were made from brass strip from Eileen's Emporium. The door dart is from Alan Gibson. 
     

     
    Sourced from the excellent Bachmann Spares Department a detailing pack prodded the front steps and drain cocks. The Hornby cast steps having been removed. 
     
    I inked in the valve gear with a silver Sharpie pen to tone things down. The driving wheels and pony truck tyre walls were treated with a black Sharpie. 
     
    Moving towards the cab I remodelled the cab spectacle windows with gentle cutting and filling. Slater's Microstrip helped form the window beading. Micro Kristal Kleer formed the spectal windows. The cab windows were flush fit made from a CD case. 
     

     

     
     
    I added the cabside washout access  doors from foil adhesive tape. 
     
    Around the draw bar area I added the extra plating along with strengthening plates. 
     

     
    Progressing to the tender I scratch built the cab doors from Plasticard and flush glazed the windows with CD casing. 
     
    The Hornby BR1G tender as supplied comes with a generous moulded coal load to accommodate the previous tender driven Ringfield motor incarnation. 
     
    I took it upon myself to improve this feature by chain drilling the coal load and making good. Making a false Plasticard bunker floor I was then able to add additional detail including then fire iron tunnel using the same medium. 
     

     
    Real coal was then added for the load. 
     
    Crew are the usual Dapol/Airfix subjects painted with Vallejo acrylics.
     
    Fox transfers were used for numbers and shed code plate. Pacific Models provided the smoke box number plate. 
     

     
    A light weathering awaits. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  4. 46444
    Blimey! It's been a while since the last entry.
     
    Woodwork and electrics have taken over recently and modelling has been put to the side. Last night I thought I'd actually try to finish off the three Ninelines L&B wagons I have sat on the workbench.
     
    Thanks to Jaymz he was able to help me clarify the positioning of the lettering on the brake van. Also the purchase of a second hand copy of Chris Leigh's book on the L&B recently and a loan copy of the Prideaux et al book helped to speed things up considerably.
     
    This is where we stand at the moment.
     
    Here's the brake van which needs its windows putting in.
     

     
    The bogie van:
     

     
    The bogie open:
     

     
    Decals are by Fox/HMRS.
     
    I also need to complete the weathering and add the vacuum pipes then they are finished.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  5. 46444
    A good friend of mine asked me to remove the factory weathering of his Hornby Railroad Crosti 9F. Having been a fireman at Wellingborough he actually worked on the prototypes and was none to complementary about them. Poor steaming and terrible visibility were mentioned. He also told the story of the Crosti 9F's being stored at the back of the shed and cannibalised for spares.
     
    The Hornby model is a Railroad model from a few years ago. Yes it has it's faults but I actually like it and think there are some good points in it's favour including price and robustness. The factory weathering is that awful blast of brown paint on the chassis and lower sides which looks a kin to Elvin Evan's Fiesta WRC after a muddy stage in a Welsh forest. Carefully using T-Cut and cotton buds I was able to remove the weathering without damage the numbers and crests, I quiet like the effect on the tender sides especially.
    .
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Here's a broadside shot with Modelu crew figures being painted up.
     
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Handrails were bent up and fitted above the front foot steps. Lamp brackets were made staples. The lamp is one of Dave Frank's excellent LMS range of loco lights.
     
    Weathering is purely added using dry brushing and washes of Valejo/Games Workshop paints.
     
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    The Modelu crew are painted up using the same acrylic paints and posed accordingly.
     
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    9F by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Tender doors are Bachmann ones from the spares box.Crushed real coal added to the tender to finish.
     
    Now things have warmed up a fraction weather wise I may do a few tweaks with the airbrush to finish it off.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  6. 46444
    Over the past few days I've been able to almost complete the four Dapol 16T mineral wagons I've been working on. 
     
    If you remember I had removed the top doors from two of them in my earlier blog entry. Since then they were finished with Tamiya NATO brown and black. 
     
    Then using prototype photos from Paul Bartlett's excellent site I have been able to weather the quartet. 
     

     
    I have used my usual Vallejo acrylics for weathering. Dry brushing has given the desired effect.
     

     
    Tamiya masking tape has been used for defined lines and the white door stripes. 
     

     
    Transfers are from the excellent Railtec range. The number sets are ready made for MCV's and have used ones that look right. In that sense all four wagons are not necessarily correct and are generic. 
     

     
    The transfers need sealing with varnish and a the weathering needs tweaking. Then they can be returned to their owner.
     

     
    Another lovely build from the Dapol stable and once more excellent value for money. Well recommended. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark
     
    Best put 70's disco hits album away now... 
  7. 46444
    As promised my take on the Bachmann/Rails Caley 812 Class.
     

     
    I chose the late crest version as the prototypes worked from Oban on the Ballachulish branch before closure. 
     
    57566 was a Corkerhill/Ardrossan shedded loco and there are some nice colour snaps of the prototype online finished as per the Bachmann model. 
     
    As for 57566 working to Balla' I'm not sure? However, I thought would keep the running number and address a few of the Bachmann/Rails discrepancies. This included the much discussed over thick tender flares. 
     

     
    As it stands the model is fairly typical of a Bachmann 0-6-0 tender locomotive over the past few years in the mould of the SECR/SR C Class, LMS 4F and 3F. 
     
    Sadly it is let down with over thick tender flares and these detract from a model which should be on par with the Hornby J36 in finesse. 

     
    With a new Number 11 scalpel blade I gently started to scrape away the inside of the tender flares.
     
    Once I had reached the desired thickness I made good with a fibre glass burnishing pencil and fine grade wet and dry paper.  The upper tender lamp iron was removed and replaced with one from the spares box. 
     

     
    On the prototypes the hinged tender doors were often folded back on the tender so this look was replicated.
     
    I did contemplate replacing the cab up-right stanchions due to their thickness but decided I could live with them. 
     
    Real crushed coal was added to the tender having applied a coat of PVA first. 
     
    The paint finish was lifted with brush applied Johnson's Kleer. I sprayed in the smokebox and cab roof with Tamiya flat black. 
     
    Baseline weathering was completed with the usual Tamiya/Vallejo acrylics sprayed or dry brushed. This certainly helps to lift the detail especially the pipework along the sides of the loco 
     
    Coupling rods are inked in with a silver Sharpie pen then washed with a blend of Vallejo acrylics. 
     
    When I load up the airbrush again with suitable colour road dirt I'll give the lower sides of the model a dusting and add also add smoke effects on the top of the boiler. 
     
    The smokebox number plate is supplied from the excellent Pacific Models range. 
     
    Crew are once more the ubiquitous Airfix/Dapol figures painted with Vallejo acrylics. Lamps are LNER pattern from the excellency Mr. Frank's at Lanarkshire Models. 
     

     
    Hopefully the success of the 812 Class will encourage Bachmann to look at a Caley 439 Class 4-4-0 especially with a preserved example running. 
     
    The clean work bench looking like a Clan gathering... More anon.
     

     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
  8. 46444
    Some progress on my model of 5993 Kirby Hall. Here's a photo of the loco ready for lining with all the detailing complete:
     

     
    I've painted in the back head detail in the cab as well as replacing the lamp irons with staples. Cylinder drain cocks were made from small handrail knobs and scrap brass 0.45 handrail wire.
     

     
    The screw reverser housing/handle has been refinished and the reversing lever has received a coat of Valejo gun metal.
     

     
    A couple of questions as well regarding finishing 5993 as per this photograph:
     
    http://evergreen.zenfolio.com/p853141025#h1a8cba0b
     
    1: Would there be a vertical piece of brass beading on the front of the cab side on a post war loco?
     
    2: I'm right in thinking the covering over the pipes up to the safety valve would have lining on it?
     
    3: The cabside lining would be as per the photo and not a simplified panel as in BR times?
     
    Thanks in advance.
     
    More soon on the 74xx and those Toads!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  9. 46444
    After a few months my unlined 46468 is now ready for service.
     
    Using the photograph I was made aware of by Jamie of this parish in the previous entry it would appear the engine was in a fairly clean condition. Here's the photo:
     
    https://www.transporttreasury.com/p814816928/hbce61ac6
     
    As a prototype it is quiet a useful engine as it covers two areas of interest. 
     

     
    46468 was originally a Cambridge 31A example so would more than likely worked on the Kettering-Cambridge via St. Ives/Huntingdon.
     
    Later on it was moved to Oban 63D and was a regular on the Ballachulish line in later years. 
     
    Being a Darlington built example 46468 was built with the skinny chimney fitted by this works.
     
    Although Bachmann have never covered this arrangement thankfully Comet Models can supply you with a lovely crisply cast white metal skinny replacement chimney. 
     
    The existing chimney was lopped off with my trusty Xuron track cutters then gradually made good with the aid of a scalpel, files and sand paper. 
     
    The chimney casting required minimal tidying up and a liner placed in the lower part of the chimney using a piece of plastic tubing. This was to help with positioning and seating the chimney securely. 
     

     
    The LMS livery was removed with T-Cut and Tamiya Satin Black was sprayed to make good the tender & cab sides. 
     
    The smokebox, chimney and cab roof were sprayed in with Tamiya NATO black. 
     
    Cabside numbers and the large crests for the tender were from Fox as was the 63D shedcode plate. The smokebox numberplate came from the excellent Pacific Models range. 
     

     
    Everything was sealed with Johnson's Kleer sprayed on then Vallejo satin varnish. 
     
    Weathering wise the ubiquitous mix of Tamiya NATO black/brown was lightly sprayed on the lower sides. Tamiya satin black was lightly sprayed over the top of the boiler and firebox. 
     
    The buffer beams were treated using a wash of Vallejo acrylics consisting of German grey and Dark Rust. 
     
    Detail painting was completed a mixture of Vallejo and Games Workshop acrylics. 
     
    The crew come from Modelu (Driver) and Hornby (Fireman). I do like those Hornby figures. Nicely sculpted and good value. 
     

     
    Sadly I've run out of Lanarkshire Model Supplies LMS lamps so I've ordered some as the finishing touch to 46468.
     
    More Ivatt action soon but something different next time... 
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
  10. 46444
    The Oxford N7 in my eyes is something of a bargain and Oxford have captured the look of these distinctive engines nicely.
     
    It is representative of the N7/4 sub-class I believe so is only suitable for a small number of members of the class.
     
    I wanted to model a Cambridge 31A example and discovered a number were allocated there in the mid-1950`s. Choosing an identity was made easier by finding a snap of 69620 at Cambridge Station in 1957.
     

     
    One of the problems identified with the Oxford model was how much the couplings protruded. To solve this I cut back the existing NEM pockets. Then by using a modified Bachmann coupler I was able to glue these in place. 
     
    31A of this parish also kindly highlighted that there should only be a reversing lever on the driver's right side so the one underneath the boiler on the left was gently cut off with a sharp scalpel.
     
    Wheel rims were inked in with a Sharpie black indelible pen as were the silver painted window frames and cab door beading. The whistle and safety valves were also touched in with Vallejo black acrylic.
     
    Following on from this the coupling rods were lightly distressed with a fibreglass burnishing pen then had a number of washes of a combination of German Grey and Dark Rust. 
     
    Buffers were also given the fibreglass pen treatment then brushed with Birchwood Casey Aluminium Black which was cleaned off with a cotton bud. Vacuum pipes were painted in with Vallejo white then red for the buffer beam area. 

     
    The cab roof and running plate were sprayed with Vallejo German Grey. The smokebox door had the printed numberplate/shedcode plate removed with T-Cut. Also the undernourished smokebox door handle was replaced with a brass Eileen's Emporium example sprayed with Hycote grey primer and satin black.
     
    The smokebox was sprayed with German Grey having masked the boiler off with Tamiya masking tape. 
     
    The existing bunkerside loco numbers were also removed with T-Cut. A piece of Tamiya masking tape acted as a straight edge to renumber to 69620 using Fox Transfers. These were sealed with a light a light dusting of Johnson Floor Polish. The loco received several brush applied coats of the same product to lift the finish. 
     
     

     
    The bunker received a load of real coal glued in with a PVA/Water mixture. 
     
    New smokebox numberplate from the excellent Pacific Models. The 31A shedcode plate was from Fox also. 
     

     
    Weathering wise a dusting of Vallejo home brewed track colour on the wheels and lower body. On the top of the smokebox/boiler a few passes of Vallejo black/German grey. 
     
    Other than crew and lamps all done. A nice project worth completing and in my eyes lifts this lovely model. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
  11. 46444
    Recently I've managed to finish of the EuroNG kit for the LKM NS2 diesel. Here's Kestrel with some repainted and detailed PECO L&BR coaches:
     

     
    Finally just as a size comparison Kestrel is seen with the Narrow Planet kit for the O&K 40hp finished in black and named 'Linnet':
     

     
    Both of these kits run on Minitrains chassis that are readily available and come with a can motor and fly wheel for excellent slow speed running qualities. Nameplates via Narrow Planet. Crew figures by Monty's or Dapol.
     
    Cheers.
     
    Mark
  12. 46444
    Been a while since I posted on the Teign Valley Project Blog. Whilst sorting out my stock boxes this evening I came across 9717 which is a detailed Bachmann 8750 with RT sanding rods. It's shown here in the company of a modified Bachmann 64xx to represent Newton's 7427.
     

     
    The Teign Valley Granite wagons are courtesy of PoWSides and the AA13 Toad is a Bachmann/Airfix alliance
     

     
    Nice finds.....
  13. 46444
    As some of you may know (gwrrob in particular) I'm a real fan of the GWR 78xx Manor Class and often request a photo of 7804 at work on ANTB.
     
    Several years ago I had a go at detailing two of these Bachmann models which date back to prehistoric times Mainline days. In fairness Bachmann did give them one of their new split chassis back in the 1990's but these are prone to axle problems.
     
    When I detailed my brace I modelled 7802 Bradley Manor and 7807 Compton Manor. Later on I sold 7807 which was the better of the two and gradually 7802's running qualities deteriorated resulting in the infamous waddle. She's been stored for a number of years and appears once in a while. Here's 7802 as she stands today:
     
    7802-29 ps by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Now with no imminent announcement of an up to date model that befits this class I've decided to bite the bullet and order a replacement set of driving wheels from Bachmann's service department. Hopefully all will be well and once the chassis is reassembled she'll run well once more.
     
    If all goes to plan I'll totally revisit this loco and look at finishing adding details and improve the paint finish. When I initially did this model I didn't possess an airbrush. I'm planning on trying to bring up the depth of the green with some Kleer before weathering and sealing once more.
     
    The chimney was replaced with one from DMR and is the correct pattern GWR version. I've also a David Geen screw reverser from the Malcolm Mitchell kit to add to the cab along with an ATC bell.
     
    7802-29 ps2 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Lets see where this goes though first before I get too carried away.
     
    Out of interest does anyone know if the splasher beading and cab window surround would have been brass on this class of loco particularly after the war?
     
    7802-29 ps1 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    More soon. Either good or bad news!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  14. 46444
    A new blog for a few things Great Western.
     
    My current project Juniper Hill-based around the Northamptonshire ironstone quarries is getting to the point where the number of jobs to do is becoming less but it is by no means finished. It is booked for a few exhibitions so will continue to be part of my layout thread.
     
    Somewhere I wrote about having a few core interests one of them being the delightful Teign Valley Line in GWR times that ran between Heathfield and Exeter and closed to passengers before Beeching came along in the late 1950's.
     
    However it's not passenger traffic that interests me-it's the industry on this picturesque line. There where a number of quarries along the line (There's a theme here ) around Trusham (Teign Valley Granite) and Christow (Scatter Rock) which provided a good source of revenue for the line especially the Trusham Quarry.
     
    I'm planning on building another micro layout based around the Teign Valley Granite (TVG) quarry at Trusham in the near future so this blog will have a few relevant postings. One thing I really hope to achieve is portrying the GWR post war in a warts and all approach. Down the line in Newton Abbot the express trains hauled by Kings and Castles stop or pass by but this is of no interest-a Pannier/Prarie shunting a few wagons at a quarry next to the River Teign captivates me more.
     
    First up is a Bachmann Pannier tank in late GWR livery that I am weathering and modifying to represent Newton Abbot shed's 9717. Robin (gwrrob) kindly provided me with GWR shed allocations for South Devon post war so this will be the first of two Pannier tanks you will see.
     
    The model was an ebay purchase for a good price and is in excellent condition. As you can see from the photos I've started putting on a base coat of weathering using the usual Tamiya/Vallejo acrylics applied by airbrush or dry brushing. I've also applied a coat of Johnsons Kleer as well to give a lustre to the finish.
     

     
    The numbers have been removed from the buffer beams with the aid of a glass fibre pencil and will be replaced by Fox ones hopefully this evening. The number plates are on order from Fox.
     

     
    The title of this entry refers to spots-in this case GWR weight restiction spots. I've a feeling that the GWR gave these Pannier tanks a 'blue' spot later changed to 'yellow' by BR post Nationalisation. Can someone clarify this please then I'll rectify it as Bachmann have put a 'yellow' spot on. Power classification is 'C' I presume?
     
    With regards to positioning of the spot did it vary or where they always above the number plate. As you can see from the photos Bachmann have postioned it higher up.
     
    Finally, Jonty Chambers renowned photographer captures the soon to be 9717 simmering in the Teign Valley during 1947 whilst visiting his sister in Moretonhampstead.
     

     
    I'm planning on adding the sand box pull rods, lamp irons and possibly opening the rear cab doors too. Watch this space!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  15. 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? 
     
     
     
  16. 46444
    A good friend gave me this OOC Bedford OB in Wallace Arnold livery for Christmas. I believe it was part of the Great British Bus Collection from Atlas Editions.
     
    It's a lovely model and with the West Yorkshire connections and the destination screen set to Scarborough it is very appropriate and will be used on a future layout. Because of this I thought I would detail the model and it would make a quick festive project.
     
    I managed to separate the bodyshell from the chassis by gently prising them apart and removing the glazing. I gave the bonnet grills, driver's door and rear doors a wash of diluted acrylics which when nearly dry I wiped off leaving the panels lines with a darker outline. I then sprayed a coat of Valejo satin varnish over the bodyshell.
     

     
    The chassis,wheels and tyres were also weathered with Valejo acrylics. The seating module was sprayed with Halfords grey primer before receiving a Tamiya NATO black pre-shading. Valejo red was then sprayed over it.
     

     
    Driver and passengers from Airfix/Dapol figures were cut down at waist height and glued in. The coach was reassembled and holes drilled in the glazing for fitment of door mirrors made from bent up PECO track pins painted with Valejo silver.
     

     
    A nice little project and one which will be seen again at a later date.
     
    Happy New Year,
     
    Mark
  17. 46444
    I'm in the process of detailing a number of Bachmann GWR Toad brake vans. Two of them will be numbered as Newton Abbot's Diagram AA13 vans. There's a bit of modellers licence here but the Bachmann van based on an AA20 I believe is not far off an AA13. Major discrepancies include metal sheeting on the guard's accommodation and the lack off J leaf springs.
     
    Looking at photos of Diagram AA15 brake vans the actual body has the metal sheeting on the guards accommodation like the AA20. In addition to this the chassis has the 'J' hanger suspension.
     
    I have a couple of the old Airfix GWR Toads whose chassis has the 'J' hanger suspension and some spare Bachmann Toad bodies. Now if you remove the four mouldings from the corners of the Airfix chassis the Bachmann Toad body fits nicely.
     
    Now would this make a fair representation of a Diagram AA15?
     
    Of course us GWR modellers would appreciate an up to date model of a Toad. Alternatively there's always the Frogmore etched brass kits.
     
    I'll post some photos soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  18. 46444
    Over the weekend I had the opportunity to catch up with a number of unfinished projects (More this week) including this Devonian Southern Trio.
     
    The Bachmann N Class had it's smoke deflectors refitted,crew adding (Dapol/Airfix) and some weathering with Tamiya acrylics via my trusty Expo airbrush. Detail weathering used either Vallejo or Citadel acrylics applied as washes or dry brushing.
     

     

     
    First up of the brace of Kernow/DJM O2's is renumbered (HMRS/Methfix) push-pull fitted 182 finished as above.
     
    [
     

     
    Finally ex-BR lined O2 refinished as 197 was also finished in the same way.
     

     
    These O2's are a superb and Kernow/DJM have produced a cracking model which runs nice and smoothly and is beautifully detailed. Rollon the arrival of the forthcoming Gate Stock....
     

     
    I'd also like to thank those who replied to my question re: headcode disc positioning. I was duly pointed in the direction of this very useful guide:
     
    http://www.semgonline.com/headcodes/sheadcodes/04.html
     
    Headcode discs are Roxey finished with Halfords white prime picked out with Valejo Panzer Aces Dark Rust.
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  19. 46444

    Caution Toads Crossing

    By 46444,

    Well I've finished a number of the Bachmann/Airfix mated Toads I've been working on. Here's 56541 which represents an AA15 Diagram allocated to Taunton.
     

     
    As a comparison of the chassis here's a shot of the standard AA19/20 Bachmann model next to the Airfix chassis equiped AA15. The 'J' Springs show up nicely in comparison:
     

     
    As I mentioned previously the GWR grey was Tamiya German Grey applied over preshading. Decals are by HMRS and are sealed with Valejo satin varnish.
     

     
    To finish I've used a mixture of Tamiya and Valejo colours to highlight detail and add worn patina to the brake van. A Monty's figure acts as a guard looking at his watch. For those with keen eyes I've even added some chalk marks using my fine tip Edding type pen:
     

     
    All in all not a bad project and once more it goes to show what delights can be conjured up from the spares box. Also it offers the GWR modeller something different to the standard Bachmann or Ratio Toad.
     
    More soon on Kirby Hall and 7427!
  20. 46444
    Bit more progression on my Dapol van body builds over the past few days. 
     

     

    Transfers have been sourced from the excellent range by John Isherwood at Cambridge Custom Transfers. They were sealed with Johnson's Kleer floor polish. 
     

     
    The tie bars are 1mm 'L' shaped brass strip from Eileen's Emporium. 
     

     
    Weathering so far as consisted of a wash of Valejo acrylics left to dry then wiped off with a damp cotton bud. Some detail painting and distressing with a glass fibre brush to follow. 
     
    Then BOCM wagon posters from Hollar Models were added to the sides. 
     

     
    I need to finish the weathering with a dusting of track colour from the trusty airbrush for the underframes and a blast of roof dirt.
     
    Vacuum pipes and couplings to finish. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
  21. 46444
    Over the Festive period I have managed to almost finish a number of current projects. More in the next few entries on these. 
     
    Yesterday I fired up the airbrush and started the weathering on 51235. This is a model of the  Derby L&Y Pug borrowed by Wellingborough shed to help move some equipment from Finedon Ironstone Quarry in the 1950's.
     
    Trusty Tamiya acrylics were airbrushed on. Satin black on the top the saddle tank and a mix of NATO Black\Brown for underframe dirt. 
     

     
    Then using Vallejo acrylics I dry brushed a mix of Dark Rust, German Grey and Gun Metal to pick out detail and represent wear and tear. 
     

     
    The grease patches on the buffers are a mixture of Dark Rust/Gun Metal. Using a new cotton bud I dip this into the paint mix and then press onto to the centre of the buffer. This gives a pleasing effect of caked on grease in my eyes. 
     

     
    Jobs to finish off 51235 include crew, cab tarpaulin sheeting to hide the motor and a full set of four shunting lights. 
     
    More soon. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
  22. 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 
     
  23. 46444
    In 1967 Featherstone Rovers won the Rugby League Challenge Cup Final beating Barrow 17-12.....
     
    Recently I've been working a few projects. One is building a OO/OO9 photo plank which can be seen in the pictures. It was made from an Ikea Lack shelf and some foam insulation board painted with brown emulsion paint. Ancient PECO Code 100 track was resurrected and a piece of OO9 crazy track made up the NG spur. Hanging basket liner has been used for the grass base layer and static grass will be added shortly. A backscene is also planned. More soon.
     
    On the NG front I've been working on detailing a couple of old Jouef Egger-bahn coaches using the excellent Narrow Planet etch for the end balconies.
     
    Egger 1 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    The carriages were broken down into their component parts and the the axle guards glued to stop them swivelling. Tie rods were made up from florists wire. After a coat of Tamiya NATO black I used Graham Farish metal coach wheels to replace the original pizza cutter wheels'.
     
    Egger 2 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    With the coaches themselves I've replaced the windows and sprayed them with Tamiya green giving them a coat of satin Valejo varnish. A wash of thinned Valejo acrylics and strategic dry brushing has given them this finish which I'm pleased with.
     
    Egger 3 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    With the roofs I covered the plastic moulding with masking tape. and added MJT roof vents. Tamiya German grey was then sprayed on, The Narrow Planet etched balcony ends were blackened chemically before receiving a coat of primer and a blast of Tamiya black. The uprights are once more florists wire. I also made the couplers smaller reducing the size of the buffer head. Here's the finished coaches seen with a modified PECO 4 wheel coach and my trusty Narrow Planet O&K 'Linnet'.
     
    Egger 4 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    On the structural front I've had a modified Wills wooden goods store sat ready for painting which can be seen below. Once painted with Valejo acrylics and distressed with fine grade wet and dry.
     
    Egger 5 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Also the venerable Wills Pagoda hut is seen below with added bolt head detail.
     
    Egger 6 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Finally the Wills Staverton signal box I've built for a good friend and of course a POWSides 'Eastern United' 7 plank built from a Slater's kit ready for weathering.
     
    Featherstone Rovers 2 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Finally and the reason for the title and brief introduction a POWSides 'Acton Hall' of Featherstone 7 plank wagon built from a Parkside kit....
     
    A trip to Post Office Road and 'The Big Fellas Stadium' awaits to see Featherstone in action.
     
    Mark
  24. 46444

    Two Toads...

    By 46444,

    Work has commenced on detailing a number of Bachmann GWR Toad brake vans as I mentioned in my previous entry. These are not meant be exact replicas but representations.
     
    Some of them will be finished in late GWR livery as Newton Abbot variants suitable for working on the Teign Valley line. Others will be finished in unfitted grey livery as brakes that worked in the Forest of Dean using some excellent decals produced by John Isherwood.
     
    Of the two ready to run GWR Toads the old Mainline now Bachmann model which cuts it above the Airfix version. Both show their age and have pro's and cons. For me the Bachmann version captures the outline of the prototype better but the Airfix Toad has finer detail and 'J' Hanger suspension.
     
    I had a couple of Airfix Toad chassis in my spares box and saw on ebay it was possible to buy Bachmann Toad bodies marked as seconds for a good price. My two came intact with no damage for the princely some of £6.70 for a brace with postage.
     
    To fit them to the Airfix chassis retaining lugs must be removed both the chassis and the bodyshells. Other tweaks include slicing off the corner stanchions from the Airfix chassis. The Bachmann body should fit easily now.
     

     
    Here's the GWR version representing a Diagram AA15 with the 'J' hanger springs. By adding some diagonal bracing to the middle panels of the guards compartment you could probably get away with a late GWR period Diagram AA13 with metal sheeting to the van sides. Here's a comparison of the springs on the standard Bachmann version compared to the Airfix/Bachmann alliance:
     

     
    Both vans have been sprayed with Tamiya German Grey over pre-shading. The roof is finished in NATO black. I've added the tie bars from brass rod and have used cut down staples for the stays. Bufffers have been replaced with Lanarkshire Model Supplies GWR unfitted wagon variants which I feel improves the look no end. The stove chimneys have also been replaced with aluminium tubing and the wheels are Alan Gibson. Application of HMRS decals will be next followed by detail weathering and reassembly. I also plan to add the sanding handle as as well.
     

     
    I'm pleased with how the Bachmann/Airfix marraige has gone. It certainly offers up a few more Diagram variants even if they are not totally correct.
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  25. 46444
    My workbench has a number of ongoing projects involving  Bachmann Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0's which will appear in various future blog entries. Watch this space....
     
    Reading and perusing the photographs of the excellent Volume 4B: Gloucester Midland Lines Part 3: South * by Neil Parkhouse the Dursley Branch has always held a fascination since I read Ben Ashworth's Last Days of Steam in Gloucestershire.
     
     

     
     
    Now to me an Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0 looks best in lined BR black. However Swindon built 46526/46527 the last two members of the class migrated to Gloucester 85B Barnwood shed in March 1962 working the Dursley branch until September 1962 before heading to Oswestry. 
     
    Being Swindon built they were finished in fully lined out BR lined green. 
     
    Now my ruse here is did they ever make it down to the Forest of Dean? Perhaps they may have but were never caputered by the illustrious Mr. Ashworth. Then again.. 
     
    I managed to aquire a Bachmann lined green 46521 for less than £50 missing the accessory pack from a well know auction site. 
     
    The Bachmann Spares Department came up trumps once more and the missing accessory pack was obtained for less than £10 included including P&P. 
     
    Here's a few reference shots I've taken of 46526 my chosen example over 46527 owing to the fact it had an 85B shed code plate fitted. 
     

     

     
    Following on from investigations into poor steaming at Swindon in the early 1950's the Ivatt 2MT's were fitted with a number of different styles of chimney. Some appeared to represent those fitted to the BR Std Class 2 78xxx which was inspired by the Ivatt design.
     
    Thankfully PDK still produce a lovely turned brass design suitable for fitting to an Ivatt 2MT. 
     

     
     
    I removed the original Bachmann example with the aid of Zuron track cutters, a scalpel and fine grade wet and dry. 
     

     
    Here it is fitted. I used a shimm of plastic tube inserted in the turning to help with secure fitting. The brass turning was finished with Halfords grey primer and satin black before receiving a coat of Vallejo black. 
     
    Notice the Bachmann numbers and water softening triangle logo have been removed from the cab sides using T-Cut applied gently with cotton buds and cocktail sticks. Also the builders plates have removed from the front frames using the above technique ready for electrification flashes. 
     
    Tamiya masking tape has been cut to size to apply the Fox Transfer numbers in a straight line. Note the centre marking point. 
     
    Being a WR loco the front and tender rear lamp irons have been turned 90 Degrees to represent the prototypes designed for WR style lamps. 
     

    These have been touched in with Precision BR green enamel. 
     
    Another Ivatt 2MT design feature subject to varience was the tender steps. Bachmann's 46521 comes with an elongated cab end step seen below. 
     

     
    Looking at photos 46526 had rung ladders to the front and rear of the tender chassis. Therefore a quick chassis swap and addition of spare rear tender steps resulted in the following. 
     

     
    Smoke box numplate wise I'm going to use the Pacific Models printed examples which look fantastic and are excellent value for money. As you can see I will also  be using the brilliant Fox shed code plates. More photos tomorrow. 
     

     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
    * The whole range of the Gloucester Series books by Lightmoor Press is a well worth purchase. They are very informative accompanied by some inspirational photography. 
     
    Well recommended and a suitable Festive Gift... 
     
     
     

     
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