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46444

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  1. 46444
    I'm a bit of a Sentinel fan and possess a couple of the excellent Model Rail/Dapol examples.
     
    However I was given a Sentinel in a rough state by a good friend who asked if I could breath some life back into it. He had previously acquired it in a box of old model railway stuff given to him. 
     
    With a bit of research I discovered it was an early Nu-cast example with a plastic body kit moulded by Ian Kirk. The chassis and buffer beams were cast white metal. It was attached to a Tenshodo motor bogie. 
     
    I understand Black Beetle also did a motorising chassis which is hard to obtain. 
     
    The model I had been given was badly assembled and painted. The chassis had been glued together with epoxy and the plastic body with old school plastic tube cement. Not ideal but a starting point. 
     

     
    With some information to hand I was able to add basic detailing using Microstrip. 
     

     
    The buffers were replaced with excellent RT Models castings. 
     

     
     
    I discovered DCC Supplies being Dapol repair agents carried spares for the Sentinel including the cab roof shutter, chimney, injectors, cab foot steps as well as the guard irons. 
     

     
    I still need to fit the guard irons but the other parts certainly lift the model nicely. I have also added brass handrails from Alan Gibson components.
     
    I have given the bodyshell a coat of Halfords primer. I will airbrush it in Tamiya gloss black shortly.
     

     
    This kit is still available from Nu-cast Partners but in all white metal format.
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
     
  2. 46444
    A bit more progress on the Hall over the past week.
     
    Managed to airbrush the Precision post-war GWR green last weekend which went on nicely.
     

     
    I then hand painted the cab roof, smoke box and tender coal space etc with Valejo black acrylic which covered nicely as ever:
     

     
    The copper cap to the chimney, safety valve cover and splasher beading were painted in using Games Workshop colours:
     

     
    I plan to add cylinder draincocks using handrail knobs and use staples for the lamp irons.
     
    Also the lining was deliberately left on so as to act as a guide for applying the Fox lining transfers.
     
    One of the Airfix/Bachmann Toad marriages is almost complete but representing an AA3 rather than the AA13/AA15 the model portrays.
     

     
    The transfers are the recent releases from Cambridge Custom Transfers and are really good to work with. A drop of Microsol setting agent helps them bed down nicely.
     
    Glazing and couplings and it will be finished soon....
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  3. 46444
    Well it's been a while since I posted on here,
     
    Real life has certainly had a profound effect on my modelling escapades of late.
     
    However, in between things a good friend of mine has taken up 7mm modelling. As a gesture of kindness I thought I'd paint a few Monty's 7mm figures for him.
     
    Here's the finished result:
     
    Loco crew and guard 11-14 001 by kettering15b, on Flickr
     
    Finished with Vallejo/Revell acryllics. I built up layers using washes to obtain the effects on the figures. Monty's/Dart figures are a pleasure to work with as always, though the size differential is noticeable!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  4. 46444
    Another Dapol build from a 12T BR van body mated to a Parkside BR chassis. Buffers from LMS once more. It is awaiting its transfers from CCT once more.
     
    It is shown with a previously built Dapol brake van modified to represent an LNER version. 
     

     
    The new Hornby LMS brake van is a lovely model. However my example had bowed lower handrails which I replaced with brass wire primed and painted white with Vallejo white. 
     

     
    Also I felt the chimney looked a bit undernourished so a piece of aluminium tubing was substituted for the moulding.
     
    I'm also in the process of replacing the rain gutters which were moulded on in the infamous Airfix BR brake van style. I'll replace them with diagonal plastic strips as per the prototype. 
     

     
    The Hornby Conflat body which came with the Ruston 48DS now has a new chassis. In this instance a Ratio 10ft RCH version. Again transfers from CCT to be applied. 
     

     
    It is seen with a lovely Bachmann 1F which had BRITISH RAILWAYS lettering on.
     
    I removed the lettering with T-Cut and have sprayed the tank sides in with Tamiya gloss black.  I will shortly be putting early crests on it and weathering it. 
     

     
    Finally a visit from Captain Birdseye... 
     

     
    More soon including a resurrected  Sentinel and some Fruit D's... 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
  5. 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 
     
  6. 46444
    We all need a another project to keep the modelling workbench busy don't we? Well in my case probably not.. 
     
    However a perusal of eBay found a sorry looking LMS Ivatt 2MT described in 'As new condition'. My collection of Ivatt's never resembled the photos but I thought it was worth a punt for a cheap project.
     
    On top of this I had a spare Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0 detailing pack to help things along the way. 
     
    My 'As New' Ivatt arrived safely and here are some photos. Thankfully the loco ran nice and smoothly straight from the box.
     
    Inside the Bachmann information sheet was a previous sale slip. Funnily enough the model had started off in Harrogate in the North Riding heading to South Wales. It has now returned to the West Riding. 
     

     
    Generally in clean condition. 
     

     
    Loose buffer and damaged smokebox door handle. 
     

     
    The tender drawbar connection has been damaged and repaired. The electrical connections are all insitu. 
     

     
    The rear coupling mounting block as also been damaged at some point. 
     

     
    The rear ladder is missing  and vacuum pipe is also damaged. 
     

     
    The loco came with a few parts from the detailing pack. 
     

     
    The small plastic fitting in between the cab door and drain cock is from the front of one of the cylinders. 
     

     
    Thankfully I had the above parts in my spares box along with a new brass smokebox door dart. 
     
    Assessing the damage I decided I needed a new tender chassis and coupling mounting block.
     
    The excellent Bachmann spares department had the parts in stock so duly ordered and on their way. 
     
    The brass chimney is a taller type from DMR and is a lovely casting. These were used on some Ivatt's. Ideally I would like a Darlington build  tall skinny chimney that Comet used to produce.
     
    Sadly these are no longer available. If anyone has one they would like to part with please PM me. 
     
    I will be going to finish the loco as either Cambridge 31A's 46467 in lined black with early crest or Oban's 46468 in lined black with late crest. 
     
    I'll start repairing the loco shortly when the parts arrive and removing the numbers and LMS insignia. 
     
    A nice little project awaits in this Ivatt restoration. 
     
    More soon. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
  7. 46444
    My new Hornby LMS brake van in BR guise appeared in a previous blog entry.
     

     
    As I mentioned then I felt the curved moulded rain strips were reminiscent of the old Airfix BR brake van kit. Prototype photos showed angled batons. Microstrip was used to make these. 
     

     
    The lower handrails were bowed so replaced with brass wire painted with Halfords white primer. 
     
    I painted the buffer beams bauxite to match the body. The veranda foot boards were also painted
     
    Weathering was carried out with washes and dry brushing of Vallejo acrylics. Then Tamiya acrylics were sprayed on the roof and underframe. 
     

     
    A nice little project which certainly enhances an excellent model. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
  8. 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
     
  9. 46444
    With the weather being good here yesterday I was able to fire up the airbrush in the workshop so work on the Manor has progressed nicely.
     
    One thing I did want to make sure was I got the chimney on straight because originally when I fitted it there was a distinct 'wonk' on! In order to combat this I used a 4.5mm HSS drill bit and turned it with my fingers to enlarge the existing hole. The size was determined by the piece if plastic tube I had to hand which would fit inside the DMR chimney. Thankfully this made fitting of the replacement chimney with Superglue easy. A clean up with a glass fibre burnishing pen finished the process nicely. The photo below shows this clearly and made a good solid vertical fit. Phew!:
     

     
    I've removed the plastic Bachmann lamp bracket from the smokebox door and made a replacement from a bent up staple. Working from the photograph of 7818 on an earlier post I've also added the two pips either side if the safety valve and a pipe that runs from the cab next to the reverser housing down on to the running plate and goodness knows where after that?!
     
    The boiler was then masked off and the smokebox sprayed with Valejo Black acrylic avoiding the previously painted copper cap on the chimney.
     

     
    Then I masked off the smokebox and sprayed Phoenix GWR green over the boiler. handrails, touched in other areas around the cab and on the tender avoiding the GWR transfers.
     

     
    Here's a close up shot of the chimney insitu and the paintwork as described above. This will receive a coat of Valejo satin varnish before being lightly weathered.
     

     
    Also in the above photo you'll see the brass safety valve cover has been filed down to give a finer lip. This has then been refinished with a mix of Games Workshop Burnished/Shining Gold seen below. Also the David Geen cab screw reverser housing has been cut down to fit the cab as per prototype and will be fitted once the glazing is put back in.
     

     
    Jobs to do include making up some brake gear linkages, seats for the cab, sort out the water filler lid in the open positioning and some detail painting. Then name/number plates can go back on before finishing.
     
    I'm pleased with how this project has gone so far. It's been good to revisit some modelling from 5 years ago and see how I've developed as a modeller by enhancing the previous work and also creating a better model of a class that certainly deserves a more up to date model to the standards of the DJM/Hattons King!
  10. 46444
    Now if you have a large piece of equipment to move you need to borrow a Pug no less. 
     
    According to Tonks in his Ironstone Quarries of the Midlands-Wellingborough Area book this was the case in the early 1950's when Wellingborough 15A borrowed a Derby 17A Pug to help move machinery from Finedon Ironstone Quarry to the Wellingborough exchange sidings for onward transfer to Blisworth Quarry near Northampton. 
     
    Due to the RTB Finedon Quarry system no longer having motive power 51235 was hired in from BR coming from Derby. 
     
    Now over time most of us modellers have owned either a Dapol or Hornby Lanchashire & Yorkshire Pug at some point in our modelling lives. I know I have. 
     
    Wishing to model 51235 I acquired a second hand Hornby weathered example of 51232 for a princely sum. Thankfully it was a very smooth runner. 
     

     
    Detailing wise I have filled in the cut out of the front and rear buffer beams with plastic strip and repainted them with Vallejo and Citadel acrylics. 
     
    The coupling hooks were replaced with Mr Franks finest from Lanarkshire Modelling Supplies (LMS) versions. 
     

     
    I also replaced the moulded smokebox door dart with a Eileen's Emporium turned brass example suitably trimmed for length.
     

     
    Front and rear lamp irons were made up from staples. The sheeted over cabside has been opened out also. 
    The cab windows were reamed out gently as well.
     
     

     
    I refinished the cab moulding with a few coats of Halfords  spray grey primer and satin black
     
    Fortunately I discovered that the etched brass 18" inch scale cab spectacles from Mainly Trains (MT 226. Available from Wizard Models) were a perfect fit.
     

     
    These were suitably fixed in place. Using Microsol Kristal Klear new cab glazing was made up.
     
    The boiler tank had received the TCut treatment and the factory finished weathering had been removed including the BR early crest. 
     
    A few coats of Johnson's Klear brought a nice sheen to the saddle tank.
     
    Transfers are from the Fox range and the smokebox numberplate is from the excellent Pacific Models. 
     
    Eagle eyed viewers will notice that Hornby have made a mistake with the builders nameplate. It's says 'LMS BUILT ???? SWINDON'. Not sure what the L&YR would say about that. 
     

     
    The weathered valve gear was painted in using a Sharpie silver marker. 
     

     
    Jobs to do now include weathering, fitting a crew, fitting lamps and adding some cab side screens to disguise the motor. 
     
    More soon in the next instalment. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
  11. 46444
    Richard of a Far North Line fame on here recently detailed a number of GBL static Black 5 models.
     
    I must say I was inspired to have a go myself at a quick project. It's not all beer and Ivatt 2MTs on the 46444 workbench. 
     

     
    The GBL Black 5 is ultimately a copy of the Hornby Black 5. This was confirmed when a spare Hornby Black 5 fall plate literally fell into place when I fitted it. 
     

     
    With the GBL model I removed the cabside number with T-Cut and a cotton bud.
     
    Then I sprayed in the smokebox, tender chassis and cab roof top of tender with Tamiya Nato black. The boiler, cab sides and tender sides where brush painted with Johnson Kleer.
     
    I could have removed the boiler handrails and replaced them with brass wire and knobs but thought this would go against the ethos of the project. 
     
    Using a few spare Comet detailing pieces I had to hand and a Bachmann Ivatt 2MT detailing pack these were fitted to the loco. 
     
    Fox Transfers supplied the 67A shed code plate, cabside numbers and power classifications. The smokebox numberplate is from Pacific Models. 
     
    I flush glazed thd cab windows using clear plastic from an Oxford Diecast model cut to shape. Real coal was added to the tender. 
     
    Suitable crew figures were fixed in the cab and a Lanarkshire Lamp was positioned on the smokebox door. 
     
    This loco may have had a tablet catcher fitted as well. 
     

     
    Overall a brilliant little project. The Hornby Black 5 and 8F certainly deserve a revisit at some point by a manufacturer. 
     
    The parcels van in picture is an old project that has been subject of a rebuild. It appeared in a blog entry from many years ago but never ran well after new bogies were fitted. 
     
    Essentially it is the Lima 42ft GUV with Lanarkshire Model Supplies buffers and roof vents. 
     

     
    The body had Microstrip ribbing adding as per prototype. It was finished with Vallejo acrylics and HMRS Methfix decals. 
     
    The chassis was modified and cut out to receive part of a spare Mainline 50ft LMS GUV chassis with bogie mountings. 
     

     
    The ride hight was modified and bogies refitted. It now runs superbly. Another model that deserves revisiting. 
     
    More on those Ivatt's soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
     
  12. 46444
    The Bachmann Wickham Trolley is a brilliant model and certainly offers up a quick detailing project. 
     

     

     
     
    In this instance I've added light lenses courtesy of Paragon Kits having drilled the light houses out. I think some very clever folk have added working lamps. 
     

     

     
    The weak point with this model is the trailer which is motorised. The faux ballast load does not look right in my eyes. Once more modellers have resorted to all manner of fixes to bring the trailer to life. 
     
    In my instance I used a piece of Tunnocks Caramel Wafer wrapper to make a tarpaulin. Shaped to the trailer and load I sprayed it with Halfords grey primer them airbrush finished it with Tamiya acrylics. 
     

     
    Cotton sheet ropes were added and the tarpaulin was glued to the load with contact adhesive. The sheet ropes were glued to the underside of the trailer. 
     
    I do think this brings some life to the previously sterile looking trailer. 
     
    The trolley roof was brush painted and airbrushed with Vallejo and Tamiya acrylics. Then the trolley was weathered with Vallejo paints dry brushed on to the surface. 
     

     
    Thankfully the good folk at Modelu have produced a delightful 3D printed Wickham Trolley crew and the tools of their trade. The scanning is wonderful with lots of lovely detail. 
     
     

     
    Once more painted with Halfords white primer and Vallejo acrylics. 
     

     
    These tweaks have certainly brought this superb little model by Bachmann alive. 
     
    A nice project for a couple of dark winter's evenings. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
  13. 46444
    Bit of an update on the Coble front I've made from the Zvedza 'Medieval Boat' kit. It was given a coat of Halfords grey primer and then dry brushed with Valejo German grey, On top of this it has received a coat of Valejo dark earth. More dry brushing to complete as well as name and registration lettering for a Scarborough registered boat. I'm told fishing boats in the 1950's carried registration details painted on their hull's.
     

     
     

     
    Around the Coble can be seen a number of mysterious buildings made from Wills kits. Also some Monty's figures can be seen and a few donkeys!
     
     

     
     

     
    Finally, two PECO L&BR coaches have had their roofs modified with the removal of the gas light fittings and vents to be replaced with MJT torpedo vents. These in due course will be repainted in the colours of the FBLR *.
     

     
    More updates soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    A prototype photo for painting the Monty's donkeys as well!
     

     
     
     
     
     
     
    * Filey Bay Light Railway
  14. 46444
    Evening,
     
    Been very quiet of late, mainly due to a course I'm doing.
     
    Have managed to do some modelling (hopefully some updates soon) and am getting into the swing of things again.
     
    However, a group of us meet at Brian's for a running session once aweek. He happens to have a very posh shunting plank in a spare room.
     
    Being an ex-Wellingborough (15A) fireman there is obviously a BR Midland theme though anything goes as long as it's steam. The only diesels seen on the plank have been an Heljan Class 14 and Class 15.
     
    I've supplied the Ratio Midland signal box and a few other pieces including the scratch built platelayers hut which is based on one that stood opposite Wellingborough Station.
     
    Here's a few photos taken on my phone:
     

     
     
     
    Said box and hut with a young Brian chatting to the signalman

     
     
    One of Brian's old engines he worked on. This is Wellingborough's (15A) 48671-that belongs to him which I've renumbered and weathered for him.
     

     
     
    Then Kettering 15B's 46400 on a Kettering-Cambridge train in the early 50's. This is a repainted Bachmann loco, and as you've guessed is one of my favourites.
     
    Just need the J15 now!
     
    All I'll say is this an excellent layout to spend an evening pottering about and shunting. Work continues, but I can't persuade him to get rid of the foam underlay and put some ballast and greenery down-which would certainly make a difference on appearance.
     
    Thanks to Brian for is excellent hospitality and allowing us to take over his layouts.
     
    Thanks,
     
    Mark
  15. 46444
    Whilst searching for an Hornby Fowler 2-6-4 on eBay for a good friend I came across this Hornby Stanier 2-6-4. It was a reasonable price so I thought it would make a nice project. There were a few areas on the model I could see needed repairing. 
     
    When it arrived and I examined it it became clear the motion bracket was broken on one side. This resulted in some rather lumpy running. 
     
    The other area of note was on the fireman's side the cabside steps and the injector pipework under the cab had been damaged. 
     
    I stripped down the loco. Degreased the chassis and rewired it removing the circuit board in the process. The chassis was reassembled and regreased the gears with Vaseline. Thankfully it was a smooth runner minus valve gear. 
     
    Through Peter's Spares I managed to obtain a replacement motion bracket assembly and got everything running very sweetly. 
     

     
    I then repaired the pipework under the fireman's cabside step as well. The step was also reglued. One of the rear handrails was missing and also replaced. 
     
    The body work was given a light buff with T-Cut and the numbers removed.  I brush applied a number of coats of Johnson's Kleer to lift the finish. 
     
    I sprayed in the smokebox and cab roof with Tamiya NATO black. The coal bunker received a false floor made up from black plastic sheet. 
     
    Choosing a class representative that would be found in the Kettering/Wellingborough area came up with 42446 which was shedded at Leicester 15C but I believe it was a Market Harborough loco and worked on the Market Harborough-Northampton line. 
     
    Numbers from Fox along with power classification and 15C shed code plate. The smokebox number plate is from the excellent Pacific Models range. 
     

     
    Everything was then sealed with a coat of airbrushed Kleer followed by a coat of Vallejo satin varnish. 
     
    The valve gear was inked in with a Sharpie silver marker followed by washes of Vallejo dark rust and German grey to pick out the relief. 
     
    I managed to find an accessory pack on eBay which was duly fitted. 
     
    Weathering wise the usual mix of Tamiya NATO black/brown for underframe dirt was sprayed on. Satin black from the same manufacturer was dusted over the smokebox. Detail painting and washes with Vallejo acrylics. 
     
     

     
    Finely crushed real coal was added to the bunker. Crew are Horny drivers (For Mikkel) with suitable amputations to fit in the cab Dukes of Hazard style through the side windows. 
     
    Lamps to be fitted.
     
    A nice project all round and good to restore a loco and give it another lease of life. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
     
     
  16. 46444
    Recently I've been experimenting with static grass and scenic effects on the photo plank. Having been successful I'll use the same techniques on the W&LLR/Blue Bell Knoll. On top of the hanging basket liner I've used a selection of static grass fibres from Auhagen and Jarvis along with Noch leaves and Bachmann Woodland Scenics materials.

    All fixed with cheap Co-op extra hold hairspray....Because I'm worth it!

    Kes 1 by Mark Branson, on Flickr

    Here's Kestrel with my recently renovated Jouef/Egger-bahn brake coach.

    Kes 2 by Mark Branson, on Flickr

    I've recently acquired another Egger-bahn brake coach which I'll finish in grey to resemble a goods brake van. I've a spare NP etch for the balcony end railings.

    Cheers,

    Mark
  17. 46444
    Last night I managed to almost complete the pipework.
     
    O&K 40HP Part 2 30.9.15 002 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    I also curved the roof ready for fitting once painted by rolling it with a bottle on some paper which worked a treat. I'd previously drilled holes for the whistle. Also I added rain gutters from Microstrip and cleaned everything up with a glass fibre abrasive pen:
     
    O&K 40HP Part 2 30.9.15 003 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    The steam pipes where also bent up and fitted to the smokebox/cylinders.
     
    O&K 40HP Part 2 30.9.15 004 by Mark Branson, on Flickr
     
    Essentially most of the complicated work is completed. It's application of Archers rivet decals, the addition of smaller details, lowering the chimney and painting the wheels black.
     
    Then she'll be ready for the paint shop.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  18. 46444
    This morning the replacement chassis I purchased from eBay arrived in the form of an unboxed 7811 Dunley Manor. I believe this model was only available in the Cambrian Coast set and other than a broken shaft to the vacuum pump was immaculate. Lucky I will be able to replace this with the one from 7802. Otherwise it would have been a case of soldering up a replacement. Additionally it had also seen little use.
     
    This particular model of 7811 appealed because it was one of the later releases so I thought would be in better condition. To my surprise Bachmann appeared to refresh the Manor at some point and this version comes with lamp irons, parallel sprung buffers and a new chimney reminiscent of the BR pattern which is a nicer shape than the original chimney seen on 7802 below:
     

     
    Here's a view of 7811 with the chassis stripped:
     

     
    The finish, new chimney and extra bells and whistles have brought this model of 1980's origin alive once more. One strange thing is the whistle and shield have been moved forwards of the cab on the firebox.
     
    Finally here's 7802. Valve gear being repaired as identified above and slide bars being painted with Citadel Gun Metal.
     

     
    This evening I've cleaned, greased and reassembled the chassis and all is well!
     
    Next stage is the attending to the bodyshell paintwork, detailing and weathering.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  19. 46444
    A welcome return to my 009 blog and an enjoyable build of one of Matt's 3D printed loco bodies.
     
    In this instance a Kerr Stuart Sirdar tramway version designed to run on the ever reliable Kato 109 chassis. 
     

     
    It's a nice 'Old School' 3D print build with no surprises and the print cleans up really nicely.
     
    The kit also comes with a selection of thoughtful accessories as well and is nicely packaged in a protective box.
     
    Unfortunately I managed to drop my print on my modelling room floor and remedial surgery was required.
     

     
    I rebuilt the buffer beams and running plate, skirts and steps with plasticard I had to hand. 
     
    I used Peco track pins for the tank fillers, the sand box and the sliding rear doors.
     

     
    Safety valves are 10BA screws and the whistle is a combination of an handrail knob and brass wire. 
     

     
    Wire handrails were added to the cab doors.
     
    The smoke box door hinge was rebuilt with Microstrip and wire. The door dart is courtesy of Alan Gibson.
     
    Lamp irons are the standard Branson bent staple affairs. 
     
    The couplers are from Narrow Planet. 
     
    Having sprayed the loco with Halfords White Primer I then airbrushed Vallejo and Tamiya acrylics for the livery.
     
    I painted some Tamiya masking tape with Games Workshop brass and cut a thin piece for a decorative boiler band behind the smokebox. 
     
    A few coats of Johnson's Kleer lifted the paintwork nicely ready for the name and number plates once more courtesy of Narrow Planet. 
     
    Locomotives on the Wadenhoe & Lilford Light Railway are usually painted black but in this instance having provenance from the Craster Kipper Tramway No: 8 retains its green livery and old name. 
     
    Crew are the venerable Airfix/Dapol figures. 
     
    A great kit to build from the Matt Ditch stable and lovely to do some modelling to lift it to another level. 
     

     
    The kit can be found here:
     
    https://www.mattditch.photography/online-shop-1
     
    Just a happy customer by the way.. 
     
    As for the name 'Kipper Wynd' there are many plausible explanations... 
     
    No: 8 will be part of the Wadenhoe & Lilford Light Railway's spur to Stoke Doyle Halt appearing shortly. 
     

     
    I'll tweak the wonky nameplates and add a touch of light weathering before entering service. 
     
    Thanks for looking. 
     
    Cheers, 
     
    Mark 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  20. 46444
    In the background I've been working on a number of projects including a few London Transport protoypes.
     
    Here's a snifter of what's in store.
     
    The venerable Bachmann GWR/BR 57xx has been available in London Transport livery over the years. 
     

     
     

     
    Railtec Transfers do a LT Pannier number set and I was able to renumber one of my Panniers to L89.
     
    Essentially a very simple job. The existing numbers were removed carefully using  T-Cut and either a blunt cocktail stick or cotton bud. 
     
    Leaving a nice gloss surface the Railtec  Transfers bedded down nicely. A light coat of brush applied Johnson's Kleer helped with this.
     

     
    The Railtec LT Pannier transfer sheet comes with a number of options by the way. The buffer beam number, bunker number and cabside numbers are included on the sheet.
     
    For those who are struggling to find a Bachmann LT Pannier tank, Bachmann Spares Department, sell the LT finished bodyshells as well as the wheelsets. An easy conversion of a Bachmann BR or GWR 57xx. 
     
    I do have a couple of Bachmann LT BR brakevans, one which will be renumbered using Modelmaster decals from their LT Wagon sheet.
     

     
    These transfers are no longer available but sets do crop up on eBay from time to time.
     

     
    Again due to the rarity of Bachmann LT BR brake vans I thought I would make up a Dapol/Airfix kit to address this
     
    The roof vents and chimney have been reversed to correct the error in the ancient mouldings. Roof vents are from Lanarkshire Models and chimney is made up from scrap parts.
     

     
    I could have made a replacement roof but decided to leave it. The rain strips are pieces of Microstrip cut to size. Brass handrails have been added to each end. Lanarkshire Models buffers and coupling hooks have been added as well..
     
    It is finished with a combination of Valejo and Revell acrylic paints.
     
    Finally, a request to Steve at Railtec Transfers came up trumps.  He has been able to produce some excellent LT style reporting numberplates that the LT Pannier's ran with.
     

     
     

     

     
    The quality of the 3D printed decal is superb even picking our the framework around the individual numbers which were placed in a bracket.
     

     
    In my eyes these fill an important void, whilst addressing the needs of the LT modeller of the 1960's/early 1970's.
     
    For those interested in the LT Panniers history and their operation should look no further than 'Red Panniers. Last Steam on the Underground' by John Scott-Morgan & Kirk Martin, published by Lightmoor Press (2008).
     
    A well recommended read.
     
    Once again, a big thanks to Steve at Railtec for his help with this project.
     
    More soon!
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
     
  21. 46444
    This morning our Postie delivered a small package from the Bachmann Spares Department. Excellent service as ever.
     

     
    Inside was the new tender chassis and coupling mounting block highlighted as damaged in the previous post. 
     
    Armed with a mug of Yorkshire Gold in a suitable receptacle with an Ivatt 2MT on it I set to work... 
     

     

     
    The smokebox door handle was replaced with a new brass Eileen's Emporium example. This was sprayed with Hycote grey primer and satin black before fitting.
     
    The top lamp bracket has been renewed also. Finally the vacuum pipe was added and loose buffer fixed in position. 
     

     
    On to the tender which had received the most damage the chassis was renewed.
     
    The electrical gubbins and weights were fixed in position. Damage to the front of the tender was made good using a piece of kit sprue from a Parkside kit. 
     

     
    The rear of the tender had the broken coupling mounting block renewed. 
     

     
    Also the rear vacuum pipe and ladder were replaced. 
     

     
    Here is 6404 essentially ready for service having been reserected to full glory. Just needs brake rodding to loco and tender adding along with front foot steps.
     

     
    Hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to remove the numbers and insignia before spraying the sides to make good. 
     
    I'll also lop the chimney off and replace with the brass DMR version.
     
    Still undecided on a lined 46467 or an unlined 46468. Could be a toss of a coin... 
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
  22. 46444
    Tonight's blog entry is an eclitic mix of wagons I am working on that are currently on the workbench.
     
    The kit below I am working on is an excellent Chivers GWR P17 permanent way wagon. As with all Chivers kits the quality is superb. 
     
    It's just waiting for some of Mr. Frank's finest buffers from Lanarkshire Model Supplies (LMS).
     

     
    The Cambrian GWR P18 is enhanced with Lanarkshire Model Supply buffers and Chivers door bangs.
     

     
    To complete the BR WR permanent way train an old Ian Kirk GWR P23 kit adds to the collection.
     

     
    All of the above will be finished in black with transfers courtesy of John Isherwood at Cambridge Custom Transfers.
     
    The Airfix 5 plank wagon is enhanced with the fitting of a Ratio RCH 10ft chassis to represent a LMS D1892 Open Merchandise wagon.
     
    Buffers again from LMS as well as door bangs from Chivers.
     

     
    The velnerable Airfix/Mainline/Hornby GWR/BR 'Bogie Bolster A' recieves a makeover. Romford wheels and new buffers from LMS.

     

     
    I have been on the look out for the Ratio Huntsman Ales van kit to complete the 1980's trio including the BOCM and Badger Ales versions I had already built.
     
    Recently I was able to acquire an unopened kit from eBay for less than £10.
     
    The build of the BOCM and Badger Ales vans are detailed in a previous blog entry.
     

     
    Finally following on from jweallans thread I purchased a 3D printed Three Peaks Models Lancashire & Yorkshire Diagram 1 Low Goods Wagon kit.
     

     
    I will do a blog entry on this shortly. Must say I am really impressed with this kit.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
     
  23. 46444
    Eveventually I came across some pictures of Collett cabbed Moguls with lining which answered my previous question.
     
    Using Fox GWR/BR passenger loco lining I have finished the lining out including the wheel splashers.
     

     
    The lining transfers were fixed with Johnson's Kleer when in the correct place. Once dry a couple of light coats of Halfords Laquer varnish was applied. To tone things down a misting of Halfords Matt varnish was then applied
     

     
    A nice front end shot showing off the new chimney and 3D printed Railtec smokebox numberplate and 81E Didcot shedcode plate.
     

     
    Window frames have been edged in with a Citadel acrylic brass colour.
     

     
    Real coal added to the tender, fixed in place with Kleer. 
     
    Jobs to do include adding flush glazed cabside windows. Front ones are Microscale Liquid Glaze. 
     
    Also to do are the two uprights in the tender for the cab weather sheet.
     
    Light weathering, add a crew and a local passenger lamp on the smokebox door. 
     
    The contents of the photographic plinth are well recommended by the way....
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
  24. 46444
    Recently a good friend of mine picked up a fairly decent 'old school' Bachmann split chassis GWR Mogul.
     
    In this instance the Collett cabbed later prototype version.
     

     
    I said I would give it a service and make good any problem areas. 
     
    Initially the model came in unlined economy BR green. Something 7327 carried in later life. The Bachmann green was a bit flat. I decided I would give it a makeover for him. 
     
    I carefully removed the moulded on cabside numberplates as well as the smokebox numberplate. A new door strap was made up from Microstrip. 
     
    The chimney was lopped off with the trusty Xuron's and the base made good. An Alan Gibson turned brass replacement was fitted having been sprayed with Halfords grey primer and satin black.
     
    The smokebox was sprayed in with Tamiya matt black and the boiler, cab sides and tender received a coat of roughly applied Precision BR Green. This certainly lifted the patina.
     
    Dapol spares available from Peter's Spares came up trumps with new sprung buffers, lamp irons and vacuum pipes. 
     

     

     
    Wheel sides have been inked in with a black Sharpie. Valve gear with a silver Sharpie.
     
    Steve at Railtec made me up a set of excellent 3D printed transfers for the cabside, smokebox numberplate and the shedcode plate for 81E Didcot.  A brilliant service and product if you have never tried it. Well recommended.
     

     
    What started off as a reasonably running loco developed the wobbles from a chassis failure. Examining the wheelsets showed the dreaded split axles.
     
    Thankfully, Peter's Spares produce replacement axles and gear for these split chassis Bachmann models. 
     
    The parts arrived speedily once more from Peter's Spares and in a matter of no time using a OO Scale back 2 back gauge I had a sweet running chassis in both directions. As new...
     

     
    I have started lining the loco and tender out with Fox Transfers lining. I have sealed this with Johnson's Kleer as I have gone along. 
     

     
    Now my question is does anyone have a decent picture of the cabside lining on these Collett cabbed variants?
     
    The horizontal upper lining start point is easy beneath the handrail but the separate vertical handrail throws out where I think the lining should go.
     

     
    If anyone can help please get in touch.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark 
     
     
  25. 46444
    In the 1980's as an impressionable teenager Ratio produced a number of special pre-printed kits based on their venerable GWR 12T box van. 
     
    As far as I an aware the three kits available came in Badger Beer, Huntsman Ales/Elderidge Pope and BOCM liveries *. 
     
    When they were available in the 1980's I never built them. I remember they were advertised in black and white images in the Railway Modeller from Ratio when they were based in Sturminster Newton. 
     
    However a pang of nostalgia sent me on a retro modelling challenge. Sadly I have not been able to procure the Huntsman Ales kit to complete the trio. Hence the blog title.
     

     
    The Badger Beer van came as new in an un-opened package courtesy of eBay. Other than Gibson bearings/12mm wheels and Lanarkshire Model Supples GWR  buffers the kit is as supplied.
     

     
    I have added a Microstrip rain strip above the doors and sprayed the roof in Tamiya German grey.
     

     
    The BOCM variant was a different kettle of fish. Essentially a non-runner minus roof and broken details it was obtained from eBay cheaply. 
     
    To mine and our postman's suprise it arrived in a used Heinz Tomato soup tin. The Postie was evidently bemused.
     
    Using a new donor Ratio GWR 12T Van kit I was able to restore the broken detail, missing roof and running gear. 
     
    Thankfully Games Workshop/Citadel paints offer a suitable match for the light blue. 
     

     
    The roof has been finished as per the Badger version.
     
    I am still looking for the Huntsman Ales/Elderidge Pope kit. If you have a spare kit please contact me via PM.
     
    More soon.
     
    Cheers,
     
    Mark
     
    * Was there a Harvey's Sherry version as well?
     
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