Managed to get a little work done on the Saloon coach kit. It's now up on it's wheels and starting to look like it could be ready for the Summer season service on the BBR. This was the first time in 20 years I soldered white metal castings on an etched kit, and it went fairly easily with thanks to Carrs low melt solder. Excellent stuff it appears. Now to press on and get it finished.
It's been a fair amount of time between posts. Work and domestic affairs taking away time from the hobby, however I've managed to write up a couple articles for publication in the Guild & operate the railway here and there. Some photographic evidence below of BBR Manning Wardle Niki shunting the Windrush Junction goods yard.
I've managed to dust off an old project & restart the Connoisseur Models brass Saloon coach kit build. I've now completed all brass parts and onto the white metal axle boxes / fitting the wheels. Should be exciting. I'm hoping to get it completed by the end of March. Time will tell indeed. All for now.
Summertime always brings more gardening, fun time at the beach, and a busier work schedule. So not much activity on the railway. In the last month plus I've managed to make a little more progress on my coach from Connoisseur Models. Still enjoying the challenge and rewards of building my first etched brass model in decades. Looking forward to painting (& hiding) my messy solder joints !
Time for a new project, something a little different. A coach, but in etched brass ! I have built a brass kit, but it's been over 16 years. If there is one thing true in this scale, it's that one should start ones journey into etched kit construction with one of Jim's fantastic kits. The instructions, diagrams and well thought out design of the Connoisseur models range is very well known.
I've wanted to expand my choice of available coaches to form a typical light railway passenger service, which will mostly be run in the form of mixed trains between Boxer Bay & Windrush Junction, where passengers will change trains to "God's Wonderful", or the occasional S&DJR service.
The kit is PMK.7, four wheeled Saloon coach, based on a North Eastern design. It will of course be lettered for my fictional "Boxer Bay Railway", Price was £64 plus wheels. I've already managed to make my first folds & form the tumblehome curve. Since this is my first brass kit in decades I'll be taking it slow. Learning & challenges are all part of the enjoyment & satisfaction of model railways. I hope to construct my first locomotive after this experience.
