Improving the IP 'Rapier' kit?

[GWRKev]

Hello folks. I'm hoping to dip a toe in the world of garden railways this summer, and bought one of these kits to see how I get on, without spending too much money.

I've somehow managed to lose the worm and axle gear during a recent tidy up, so I've written to Ivan to ask if he can send me replacements. While I'm waiting, I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions on simple things I can do to add some detail to the basic kit.

Many thanks for any ideas!

Kevin.

[ge_rik]

Hi Kevin
I've no direct experience with the Rapier kit but I have constructed an Albert kit which is similar
https://riksrailway.blogspot.com/2018/0 ... lbert.html

Firstly, from my experience, Ivan is very responsive to your sort of request and I'm sure he'll get back to you with a replacement forthwith.

Regarding the enhancements. As far as I remember I added a few controls to the loco's dashboard and a moulded seat - all courtesy of Cambrian - https://www.cambrianmodelrail.co.uk/16mmng-parts - A really cost effective way of adding details to locos like this.

Have you thought about RC? I can recommend Micron RC components ( http://www.micronradiocontrol.co.uk/lan ... nents.html ). They are small and very responsive. As they are based on Deltang gear they have a good pedigree. I must confess to some bias as I was once a seller of Deltang gear (throughhttps://www.rctrains.co.uk/), though I sold off my business several years ago and am now nothing more then a very "satisfied customer".

Rik

[GWRKev]

Thanks Rik, that's really helpful. I will definitely be adding Deltang R/C kit - I use it in my 009 and 00 models so fitting it in the Rapier should present no problems!

Kevin

[ge_rik]

I've just noticed your 'handle' is GWRKev and mine is GE_Rik. Never the twain shall meet ......

I chose this moniker when I created my eBay account many (many) years ago. The website suggested I chose something I was interested in and combine it with my name. As it was in my pre garden railway days, the Great Eastern Railway was at the forefront of my mind.

Rik