“Here are more from my layout… Just about 33% done… With this half.
James”
“My Big Curve Conclusion.
How it came out and a little fun while doing it.
Rob”
Heading off to ebay? Hold your horses:the latest ebay cheat sheet is here.
That’s it for today.
Please do keep ’em coming though – I enjoy them as much as you do.
And if today is the day you decide you want to join in on the fun, the Beginner’s Guide is here.
Best
Al
Alan has kindly answered the questions posted on his last piece.
“Hi Al,
I’ve had some very nice comments about my layout so thank you everyone.
A few questions were asked, my prototype is The Western Region in South Wales.
The layout is pure fiction, but I try to replicate the operating practices of that area which is set in the late 1950’s.
You may have seen my station pilot loco, an ex GWR pannier tank complete with Shunters truck. These were unique to the GWR/western region.
They were used in marshalling yards and the trucks had running boards on either side for the shunter to stand on. It saved a lot of walking. He had along pole which was used for uncoupling and applying the brakes on wagons.
Right up to the early 1960’s loose-coupled goods wagons were still in use (no air or vacuum brakes).
Wagons were uncoupled by the shunter, then the wagon or wagons were pushed by the loco into the siding where they were needed.
The shunter then had to run alongside and apply the individual brakes on the wagons, again using the pole. It was so archaic and dangerous.
I find the shunting movements far more enjoyable than just watching trains go round & around.
The back scenes are made by Gaugemaster and are photographic. They do a selection of different views, plus there are many other makers. Just type in ‘model railway back scenes’.
Lastly, I was asked about fiddle yards . Mine is a turntable type. I wanted enough tracks to hold most of my stock so I have 8 roads. The centre one is split in two by the pivot bolt, thus creating two short roads. I then have three roads either side.
The length is determined by how much room you have, remember it has to turn 360 deg. so you have to have enough room either side.
Electrical connection is made by rod & tube method. So when the train runs back to the F/Y I just turn it 360deg and it,s ready to depart again.
Mine is 44 inches long enough for a tank loco + eight wagons or two coaches.
I hope that helps
Alan”
And after ken’s brilliant video trailer, he’s sent in some ‘out takes’.
I have to say, I thought it was better than the trailer – so here it is.
That’s all for this missive peeps.
Please do keep ’em coming.
And if today is the day you grab the bull by the horns, the Beginner’s Guide is here.
Best
Al
PS Latest ebay cheat sheet is here.
“Thought you could use some pics to post with the movie trailer … Thanks Al”
“Hi Al hope all is great … The new movie Amsterken will be out this spring !!!! here is the Movie trailer not sure if ill go with this one would like input to this and maybe some story ideas BBBRRRRAAAPPPPP
Amsterken”
Big thanks to Ken – enjoyed that!
Have no idea why so much stuff is being listed on the ebay cheat sheet at the mo. Maybe it’s because summer is looming.
Anyhow, please keep ’em coming.
Best
Al
