Time to build a railway...but where?

[BorisSpencer]

Wow, that kit is a (laser-)cut above the norm.

[Peter Butler]

Since discovering Jerry's kits I have been converted to kit-building. I have no connection with the supplier and have never met Jerry but during e-mail conversations it is clear to me he strives to set the bar very high in his product range, see below....

https://www.flickr.com/photos/107486657 ... 8655086333

All of his kits are supplied with ball race bearings as standard and steel wheels are available as an option (at small additional cost).
Jerry is a Forum Member..... search... 'Jerry'.

[Andrew]

Those are very nice kits, aren't they? I love the chunky running gear - it's going to take more than the odd derailment or two to damage those... Lovely finish too Peter...

Cheers,

Andrew.

[ge_rik]

Those kits do look good. Are they 32mm gauge only?

Rik

[SimonWood]

That looks terrific, Peter! A finely detailed wagon, and beautifully finished.

Those kits do look good. Are they 32mm gauge only?

Most of the stock is available in 32 or 45mm, but the option to have the tool wagon as a kit is (or was in June) 32mm only.

[chrispearce]

Well my giddy aunt! Stap me vitals etc. Have just read through this entire thread and what a brilliant railway! Stunning.
More strength to your already apparently very strong arm Sir.

[Peter Butler]

Well thank you Chris, you are a brave man to take on my version of 'War and Peace' and survive. I am pleased to hear you are impressed and hope you get all the help you need from other members of the Forum. They are a friendly and supportive group.

[Peter Butler]

I have commented on the thread by Mitch concerning his PDF 3D Baldwin build and have mentioned my current Hunslet build from the same company. I won't hi-jack his story but can show progress so far on my own.
Only recently I built an earlier made Hunslet 'Alice class' kit from PDF which was entirely printed, however, their production method has altered considerably since then and this 'Port class' kit is a much better option, having more laser cut HIP parts for the cab, chassis and footplate. Everything fits perfectly and the printed parts, boiler, cylinders, saddle tank, firebox and smokebox (incl. chimney) are the only pieces to rub down to a satisfactory surface for painting.
It is well worth the effort to spend time on these prominent sections in order to get best results.
There are options available when ordering the kit..... eg. short or tall chimney, plastic or metal gears, but others are available if you ask. I wanted metal wheels, at extra cost (plastic are now the ones supplied) and a 12v motor...... not a problem! You also get a 4 x AA battery holder and a DPDT switch included.
'Cambrian' rivet heads and cab detailing parts are included so I attached these to the bodywork and firebox.
I spent some time preparing the parts for paint so little to see there, once sprayed I added lining tape (Trimline) and a spray lacquer to keep it in place.....

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The boiler and firebox were filed out to accept a 4 x 4 AA rechargeable battery pack.....

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The chassis can be painted before assembly and is bolted together using the printed spacer blocks provided....

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I mounted a single pole on-off-on switch under the cab and a charge point at the rear using a plastic tunnel to conceal the wiring into the firebox. This will be hidden by the driver and fireman (from 3D Design Scan Print) which are currently on order.
Not included in the kit are handrail knobs or buffers. This leaves the builder free to choose so I have fitted brass knobs and brass handrail to continue around the chimney. Also, I have replaced the springs with plastic moulded ones I had from an unknown source. I also replaced the printed spectacles for brass ones, which look better.

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Up to present time it is a running loco using Deltang receiver and RC Trains controller and just waiting for final detailing.

[LNR]

Beautiful surface preparation and paintwork as usual Peter.
Grant.

[ge_rik]

Another finely finished model, Peter.

Rik

[FWLR]

Very nice Peter.

[BertieB]

Wow. Beautifully done. Love the cab windows; and interior; and...

[Peter Butler]

Further progress today.... the handrails and springs previously mentioned are in these pictures, along with the buffer beams, cab steps and Binnie buffers. Also, the nameplate 'Alice', offered for sale on eBay just days ago, is now attached.
I will give the whole thing a light spray with matt lacquer to cut back the high gloss finish. I have used this method before and it gives a nicer overall appearance...

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Still waiting for the two 3D printed figures to arrive but I have the cab roof to form first.

[Peter Butler]

Now 'Alice' is finished (except for driver) I have introduced her to the garden railway, just a short run as there is so much crud on the line it wouldn't be possible to do the full circuit. With the additional batteries on board (8 instead of the 4 holder supplied) it has better traction and responds really well to the Deltang control system. Not fast by any means, but proto-typically smooth with ample pulling power.

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Now we are confined to home I can see another kit joining the fleet any time soon.

[philipy]

Very nice Peter, as always!

[LNR]

Pretty as a picture.
Grant.

[ge_rik]

A great addition to the line, Peter. Are you going to add a gallery to the slate quarry for her?

Rik

[philipy]

A great addition to the line, Peter. Are you going to add a gallery to the slate quarry for her?

Rik

Oooh, naughty naughty Rik!
I got in trouble when I suggested something similar many moons ago and caused Peter more work!

[Peter Butler]

That's true Philip, but it worked out well. Having searched through my photo files it is interesting to see how long ago it was....
Building began here in June 2014....

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From a simple siding plan a full blown quarry site emerged complete with inclines and winding house. It all adds to the visitor attraction on my tourist line.....

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[FWLR]

She looks brilliant Peter. Those little extras have made her look very proud and regal. Your attention for detail inspires me to try to do the same, but alas I don't come close to you.

Thanks also for reminding us about your Quarry build. It's got to be one of the best I have seen.