Test Build 1 - Laying down the gauntlet

I'm still in the debating and designing phase for future micro layout projects and as part of that process I challenged myself to think about how an O9 layout might look if I was to create something that didn't use my existing fleet of locomotives and stock from 'Shifting Sands', maybe pushing far further into the minimum gauge ethos rather than miniature railway.

Anything new also had to be easier and quicker to build than previous models too, so it isn't a surprise that I started with a kit, the Minimum Gauge Models 'Classic Diesel'. It's only been in the stash four years... Whilst it has a whiff of the RH&DR's 'Redgauntlet' it is reproduced slightly over-scale with several detail differences.

Construction is largely soldered, I've never been convinced that superglue will give longevity on bonds like those holding the bonnet top in place, even if reinforced with Araldite. The cab roof and bonnet have been left as separate units for now to aid painting in the future, and I will get around to adding an exhaust pipe and front grille.

I chose to not use the layered bufferbeams the kit provided and instead used 30 thou styrene to create new overlays, making it easier to add suitable mounting points for MicroTrains couplers and also to alter the shape to sit closer to rail level.

Thoughts also turned to rolling stock. Whilst some existing wagons could be used, more would be required if I went down a light industrial or agricultural route. My usual way of wagon building had three points of time consumption:

• Scribing plank lines on styrene sheet
• Creating wood grain effects
• Adding bolt detail individually

The chance purchase of a Slaters sheet of rivet details on 20 thou styrene sheet prompted some experimentation. Using this and planking sheet the wagon body on the left was built, eliminating all three points of contention.

However, it looked more like a wagon built from old shed timber than planks, so the version on the right was created, returning to scribed planks on the sides (but retaining the Slaters sheet on the floor). The rivet strips were cut finer this time and the end result looks quite acceptable. On the end Evergreen channel section adds further relief.

So the ideas and options are there for the stock, I just need to work out what the layout might be...

Colin