Not really, but a visit to an On30 layout a couple of months ago inspired a new loco project. We took a number of pictures of a tiny Quarry locomotive that was parked in the yard. It was built from a kit and probably wasn't more than two or three inches long.
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The idea of creating a large scale version took hold and the planning phase started. The first consideration was to select a power block. My all time favorite is Bachmann's 0-4-0 and a side tank loco surrendered its works to the project. This didn't work out because of my inability to create accurate crank parts to convert it to an outside frame unit. Then I remembered that a power block from a B'mann 45 ton monster switch engine was in a box somewhere. THAT block has some super cranks and side rods AND two driven axles which make binding almost impossible. After a few stumbles the cylinders and crosshead guides came together allowing smooth operation.
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The body came together using mostly styrene and ABS plastic.
![Image]()
Details were added and I actually developed some skill in soldering parts together without unsoldering adjacent parts.
![Image]()
This thing would never stand up commercially as some of the parts are screwed together, some are glued, and some are just held in place with pins.
![Image]()
Assembly and weathering (always scary) and adding some chains, tools, and of course a dog to keep the crew happy and it's done.
![Image]()
![Image]()
I added the LGB skates because this will be operating on a section of the Door Hollow Shortline that is pretty much inaccessible for track cleaning during train shows. The skates really don't show (all that much) but will help keep it running all day.
The idea of creating a large scale version took hold and the planning phase started. The first consideration was to select a power block. My all time favorite is Bachmann's 0-4-0 and a side tank loco surrendered its works to the project. This didn't work out because of my inability to create accurate crank parts to convert it to an outside frame unit. Then I remembered that a power block from a B'mann 45 ton monster switch engine was in a box somewhere. THAT block has some super cranks and side rods AND two driven axles which make binding almost impossible. After a few stumbles the cylinders and crosshead guides came together allowing smooth operation.
The body came together using mostly styrene and ABS plastic.
Details were added and I actually developed some skill in soldering parts together without unsoldering adjacent parts.
This thing would never stand up commercially as some of the parts are screwed together, some are glued, and some are just held in place with pins.
Assembly and weathering (always scary) and adding some chains, tools, and of course a dog to keep the crew happy and it's done.
I added the LGB skates because this will be operating on a section of the Door Hollow Shortline that is pretty much inaccessible for track cleaning during train shows. The skates really don't show (all that much) but will help keep it running all day.
