I'm building a small test layout, 140cm x 25cm (roughly 4' 7" x 9 3/4") to see how well I get on with the smaller scale. It's loosely based on The Eastgate Tramway by Philip Moss, which is in the 7mm NGA's Small Layouts Handbook, but obviously a lot smaller. I only plan to use 4 wheel stock, to allow small trains that can be run round in the loop. It's more a shunting plank than a proper layout, but I wont' know if I can manage the small stock and track with fat fingers and failing eyesight unless a have a go. So far I've assembled the baseboards, bought from Tim Horn, printed out the track plan and stuck it to the boards, and checked the clearances. So far, so good. Now to start laying the track. Ed
I've just managed to fit a couple of rail joiners without resorting to the magnifying visor, but now I've got to solder a couple of wires on Ed
Already have Ron, it's just a bit too heavy to keep carrying in and out of the garage. http://platform1mrc.com/p1mrc/index.php?threads/7mm-narrow-gauge-micro-layout.2661/ Work on the O-16.5 plank has stopped until the summer, this one is considerably lighter. Ed
Finally made two Dundas coach kits I bought ages ago Not very good, but first attempt................ Small and fiddly comes to mind Ed
I bought a side tank loco body from cwrailways, which comes in four main parts. Glued it together apart from the roof. A lot smaller than the Smallbrook O-16.5 locos I was doing last year, but easy enough with the magnifying visor. Coat of grey primer done and it's sitting on it's Kato 11-103 chassis. I've painted it black, but it will need toning down with some matt varnish. I'd used car rattle cans for my O-16.5 locos which gave a pretty good finish. Unfortunately I'd run out and got some Humbrol spray paint with my last order of scenery stuff from that great box shifter in Widnes. It's taken far more coats and I don't think it gives as good a finish, but it will have to do. Ed
I know how tiny these locos are but even in "cruel" close up the finish is amazing. Once detailed with handrails etc, it will look even better! Nice one mate Pete.
Thanks Pete. I've ordered a whistle and some other bits, but although the scale is 4mm, you need slightly smaller 'fittings' which is making things interesting Ed
I've used some card to do a bit of landscaping. I covered it with a mix of Polyfila and brown paint, which unfortunately gives a colour that doesn't show up too well on camera. Also painted the track. Darker picture indoors shows the hills (if you can call 'em that) a bit better. Ed
When ever I see an update like this Ed I want to dash into the shed and start another layout using my O16.5 stuff . Must say though I like the way you are heading, great stuff!! Pete.
Hi Pete, Yes I know what you mean regarding eyesight that's the reason I gave up on NGauge to go on the bigger Scale 16mm. Your small layout looks good, love the little loco and the kit coaches. Regards, Gloria.