Like the Simplex this uses the split frame pick up system. The frames and bodywork are whitemetal whilst the footplate and buffer beams are, for insulating purposes, plasticard. Whitemetal is also used for the connecting rods, cylinders and flycranks. No coupling rods are supplied, and drive is to the rear wheels only, making it in reality a 2-2-0!
This one is my original, and my favourite kit built loco;
Its built as Brian Clarke intended and runs nicely.
My second loco has been slightly modified, it sports a better motor (5 pole LH17 instead of the supplied cheapo 3 pole) fitted with a custom turned flywheel (I was working in a machine shop at the time that I built this), brass axle bearings (the axles usually run straight in the w/m frames), a lubricator fitted onto the chimney (another Saltford casting), springs above the front axle (Chivers w/m castings), and extra pipework under the tank sides;
There's still a fair amount of work to do before its finished.
The con rods on these locos have a cut down split pin on the piston end, which slides along a fixed 'piston' rod glued into the cylinder. There's no attempt at even cosmetic slidebars. Despite the crudeness (or because of it?) watching it trundle along is a joy.
Even the instuctions had a certain charm, here's the exploded view;
But, there is a fault with the kit in that the flycranks are too big, meaning that they are in fact larger than the wheels, a problem on pointwork and inset track. However, it is a proper outside framed loco, and like all of Saltford's range came as a complete kit.
Paul.
What a lovely little model, for me, it sums up the charm of 009 modelling...of course, you have done your customary top job of assembly. The instructions, too...full of a certain Emmet flavour, entirely appropriate. I can see why this is your favourite.
ReplyDeleteThanks Iain.
ReplyDeleteThe red one must have been built about 25 years ago, the Simplexes in about 1988.
There are a few other Saltford kits in the box unmade, waiting for a rainy day.