tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42369298919736803002024-03-04T20:08:56.434-08:002MM FENCE HOUSES MODEL FOUNDRYEtched Kits For The Discerning Modeller (Mainly But Not Exclusively For 2mm Finescale)Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-60185154418737036492013-08-31T03:17:00.000-07:002013-08-31T03:17:53.499-07:00Just testing!Over a year since I posted anything here, and that's down to my old computer operating system refusing to work with Googles latest upgrade!
So hence this test from my iPad.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFM9t65BSyp86T2yp4IoBOKoj1cpN2bJaObTWhtaImDm1sDO2hvU9fxMISYrEjB_E4JrUlJHa5jsHeqZ7ktjRD7j1hqVdjxwu5KLOj2r2l4dXHHgNkqhI5kK_2V3ZI_GukCyZqcDh8qLY/s1600/ME-FAR.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMFM9t65BSyp86T2yp4IoBOKoj1cpN2bJaObTWhtaImDm1sDO2hvU9fxMISYrEjB_E4JrUlJHa5jsHeqZ7ktjRD7j1hqVdjxwu5KLOj2r2l4dXHHgNkqhI5kK_2V3ZI_GukCyZqcDh8qLY/s320/ME-FAR.jpg" /></a>Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-14607748195324485162012-07-05T01:12:00.001-07:002012-07-06T12:59:23.687-07:00Latest videoHot off Ian Morgan's press, here's the latest video taken at the NE group 30th anniversary bash on the 23rd of June.
At last we have some steam locos in evidence (even if the Black 5 is still not painted yet). Thanks Ian.
See "Layout Videos" below right.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-15267726130113342012012-02-23T12:14:00.000-08:002012-02-23T12:14:23.084-08:00Jim's WagonsSome weeks ago I saw a few photos of Jim Watt's build of some 2mm scale wagons, one of which was in the Fence Houses Foundry livery! I've wondered for some time what that would be if I ever got round to doing it, but Jim has beaten me to it. Interesting load Jim, they certainly look like foundry castings.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtI56IxPWOfOo8PCHPUnhA0Ww9IDDIgLqMcEjf-KqyXyLhwXPUtl8byep0_PjVnqLBdlzsW5XaoXTY6qLF7SgFZIQsqUvsYjcMDPtlahIBuqmlmEz2R8aXJNKrKZXl2s9PCvJCaq6YRYw/s1600/Fencehouses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtI56IxPWOfOo8PCHPUnhA0Ww9IDDIgLqMcEjf-KqyXyLhwXPUtl8byep0_PjVnqLBdlzsW5XaoXTY6qLF7SgFZIQsqUvsYjcMDPtlahIBuqmlmEz2R8aXJNKrKZXl2s9PCvJCaq6YRYw/s320/Fencehouses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> This next shot shows the same wagon as part of a rake of Jim's further output. It would be nice to welcome the wagons on to the layout one day, and as we were asked last year to attend the 2014 Glasgow show (to be confirmed), then maybe we can see them on Jim's home territory, even further 'up north' than we are!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrd6ShZwFbnKv56QUbHCebNzZML-3HCf497eucj4O-vkEzLmy_JiI6gAn2CXt9YLxU4mwnYqnXwj5RDTzv_9yUKjV_7YSx4PTLdgot7a2NnSwR2DZMq8E1F0SwvORVDiTHz-CcxEj6FtPu/s1600/Three+wagons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="109" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrd6ShZwFbnKv56QUbHCebNzZML-3HCf497eucj4O-vkEzLmy_JiI6gAn2CXt9YLxU4mwnYqnXwj5RDTzv_9yUKjV_7YSx4PTLdgot7a2NnSwR2DZMq8E1F0SwvORVDiTHz-CcxEj6FtPu/s320/Three+wagons.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-70962432329491218242012-02-20T13:26:00.000-08:002012-02-20T13:26:51.897-08:00Tom Harland - Sad NewsThose of you who know of the work of Tom Harland and his masterpiece 'Bramblewick' (NER 4mm), may not know that Tom died this morning (20th February) after fighting cancer for some time.<br />
Tom was a great inspiration to many modellers, me included, especially with regard to the finish of Victoria's stonework. Anyone who saw Bramblewick in MRJ or on the circuit, will remember Tom's artistry in creating all that stonework, and of course his 'day job' as a professional artist always shone through. More than that, he was a gentleman, always willing to help.<br />
Thank you Tom.<br />
I never met Tom's family, but I wish them all the best at this sad time.<br />
<br />
Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-83580673417968507972012-02-17T07:27:00.000-08:002012-02-17T07:27:17.397-08:00Treemendous!Alan Pearson, our chief arboretum chappie, has been rather busy over the last few months. Here are a few photos of Alan's work on Victoria's board (apologies for the garage lighting and background). He's also 'planted' a lot more trees and bushes etc. on the rest of the layout, so if you have only seen Fence Houses at Oxford in 2010, you are well behind!<br />
No more prattle. I'll just let Alan's photos and inspirational work speak for themselves.<br />
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More prattle........ Alan's techniques will be explained in an article he is planning for one of the major magazines. I'll report here when it appears in print.<br />
<br />
See all this for real at Nottingham!<br />
<br />
Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-62627114537006522272012-02-12T10:50:00.000-08:002012-02-13T04:53:07.168-08:00More of VictoriaTeam member John Robson and his wife Rita recently made their first trip to view Victoria viaduct close up. John sent me this photo, which struck me as showing how enormous the bases are for this listed structure. John's glamorous assistant here poses by one of the north side piers, where some of the scribbling of the local idiots does not detract from Victoria's (and Rita's) magnificence.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicE4LTzO1nh1ZyCMjq6aqbJunaYjqtN1lAJZkmHeFUCNBm4ovPKBmUUzL5h3hLHWx8AoNp7q4_Q8hL1pvVkna5DdDU9xJF8iJht5O69bAaGih5NiQIR0ravSKU9Lh6RYzgvpe_IHWS_KCX/s1600/VICTORIA+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicE4LTzO1nh1ZyCMjq6aqbJunaYjqtN1lAJZkmHeFUCNBm4ovPKBmUUzL5h3hLHWx8AoNp7q4_Q8hL1pvVkna5DdDU9xJF8iJht5O69bAaGih5NiQIR0ravSKU9Lh6RYzgvpe_IHWS_KCX/s320/VICTORIA+3.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
John's photo reminded me of a rather primitive drawing I'd been sent when researching the project, from the publication 'Fordyce - A History of Durham'. This shows Victoria under construction (1836-8), with the timber staging required to support the masonry above, a couple of derrick's for moving stone blocks around, and what may be a temporary contractors railway in place for supplying the stonework to the site.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMXMJI6MezDs445_S-izq87xrX6bhVjOTmOXP-Awck_a5Akw2RyfJzwrkX60ScXwhU5mFVum-zR4JFfXvrZf2yS_KlRhqnxM0C5iUxgUmQrEhdtRfZx_vYocmpSi-zSNdNG7CPJxkmVsa/s1600/FORDYCE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMXMJI6MezDs445_S-izq87xrX6bhVjOTmOXP-Awck_a5Akw2RyfJzwrkX60ScXwhU5mFVum-zR4JFfXvrZf2yS_KlRhqnxM0C5iUxgUmQrEhdtRfZx_vYocmpSi-zSNdNG7CPJxkmVsa/s320/FORDYCE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Less than 4 weeks to Nottingham now, better get a move on!<br />
<br />
Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-39172990406020022272012-02-04T09:44:00.000-08:002012-02-04T09:47:47.928-08:00Lambton 'D' Pit Headgear EtchI made a posting here dated 29th March 2011, ending with the words "back down the pit" or something like that. Well here's what I'd started back then, after looking on and off at the 'Wrightscale' etched brass kit in a drawer for the previous 3 years (you may remember the kit being advertised in the 2mm Scale Association Magazine). Mr Wright also did the kit in 4mm scale, and I think they are still available.<br />
<br />
Like many kits, there are quirks and 'incomplete' parts to the instructions. Even having to drill holes for some of the handrails in the floors (not lining up with the post centres) and some missing words on a page, I am still delighted with the kit and the efforts it took to (nearly) complete the model as seen here.<br />
When I bought the kit I also availed myself of the additional etch that was on offer for a spare set of sheaves (wheels). These can be left lying around representing a spare set at the pit.<br />
A long time afterwards I was looking at the kit etches and noticed that the main kit sheaves are about 2.5mm bigger in diameter than the additional etch! The axle bearings on both etches are exactly the same size, so it's not a case of the sheave only etch being 'shrunk' to a different scale. Weird, but as the sheaves are cosmetic only, it will not matter in my case. <br />
<br />
The finished headgear will be situated on top of the roof of the colliery building next to the winding house on my little representation of Lambton 'D' pit on Fence Houses.<br />
<br />
I'm now awaiting the latest test sheet back from the etchers any day now, and with various walkways, stairs and lots of wall and roof windows for the colliery buildings, I should be able to finish all the buildings in time for the Nottingham show in 5 weeks time...... hopefully! <br />
Bob.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53aX7bnDwRrCQf41kfWMIzY1JjNOq0ItuslOzAfXo3Bqqe61omXH_5LVX1ybxmOZQJiYqWMmijs5YFpkYEFcE111Ka7gT7RkEs5JW0WfIBqo0MthgtNTtV6baQ4rytRJKgfRimvoDP_qV/s1600/HEADGEAR+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53aX7bnDwRrCQf41kfWMIzY1JjNOq0ItuslOzAfXo3Bqqe61omXH_5LVX1ybxmOZQJiYqWMmijs5YFpkYEFcE111Ka7gT7RkEs5JW0WfIBqo0MthgtNTtV6baQ4rytRJKgfRimvoDP_qV/s320/HEADGEAR+1.JPG" width="234" /></a></div>Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-84851937033706231612011-10-29T06:30:00.000-07:002011-10-29T06:51:18.155-07:00Bringing the video links togetherNot sure if this is the best way to display these links, but this will do to start with, at least they are all together and accessable by just one click!<br />
Thanks to Ian Morgan and Mick Simpson for the videos.<br />
<br />
1st is the FHMF 2FS 9F kit 2007.<br />
2nd is the inaugral run in and out of the garage 2010.<br />
3rd is the first test run at the Blyth club premises prior to the 50th anniversay Expo at Oxford 2010.<br />
4th and latest to date is the NEFG meeting at the Blyth club 2011.<br />
<br />
Bob.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a394fqgsXVk%20">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a394fqgsXVk </a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqxEbDtc0To">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqxEbDtc0To</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kO6pBINLTI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kO6pBINLTI</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Qzn8BLj7Ak">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Qzn8BLj7Ak</a>Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-65160745463144473342011-10-24T02:00:00.000-07:002011-10-24T04:33:04.854-07:00AGM, Black 5 update, and a Fry-upThat time of year again, and good news from the AGM down in Aldershot for one member of the Fence Houses team.<br />
The last posting here was about Simon's model of Wapping Bridge Signal Cabin, and guess what? Simon was awarded the Malcolm Stone Trophy. We liked the box anyway, but now Simon has the icing on the cake.<br />
9F's breeding? Well that's what the comment was in the 2mm Magazine for August-September 2011. See the magazine photo of the two locos built by David Smith of Essex, from the FHMF kit. I hear that David won The Groves Trophy for one of them, so well done David (maybe I'll get round to finishing my own second one now!) <br />
Talking about finishing things, we have been working on the layout (no, it's not 'finished' yet) after the Blyth show last August, but what with various illnesses in the team, plus a general slowing down due to lethargy and old age, well at least for me, we have still a way to go to where we want to get to. However, we have the Newcastle show at Gateshead International Stadium in just under three weeks now (12th-13th November) to look forward to, so no doubt the adrenaline will come pumping back in time to fire us all up again. Hope to see some of you there.<br />
One thing I have done since Blyth is resurrect the prototype build of the Black 5 kit that had been languishing on the 'damaged' shelf, following a serious wheel slip and a bending of one of the coupling rods. I was expecting a complete strip down of the chassis to put things right, but was amazed at the fact that I just pushed all the wheels back in to 'quarter', and force re-bent the offending rod, to produce a 99% acceptable situation. I suppose my 'just go for it' attitude helped, as I was not expecting it to work, and nothing would have been lost anyway. See the attached two photos, which shows the loco still unpainted of course, despite chivvying from certain team members. Sorry, but I just like the gleaming brass fittings, nickel silver and white metal....... even at an exhibition. At least people can see the origins of the thing, and that it's not just another Chinese import (superb as they may be these days). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NAA_1GP4Uug_6J9FzUdwxTLm-8Y3w97EE0cH8WgK9dNE4llNAjVIcsK06pnNKnSQnOmBJ-0q_PneFA4p5bffSFp0oYGEQhYtKvAgZIx8WpK_euyYTRtczxufjIJ2hinC9q6hpWnTuh13/s1600/BLACK+5+RH1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NAA_1GP4Uug_6J9FzUdwxTLm-8Y3w97EE0cH8WgK9dNE4llNAjVIcsK06pnNKnSQnOmBJ-0q_PneFA4p5bffSFp0oYGEQhYtKvAgZIx8WpK_euyYTRtczxufjIJ2hinC9q6hpWnTuh13/s400/BLACK+5+RH1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Finally, how not to handle your expensive DCC chips!<br />
It's been a long time since I dismantled a Mashima motor to clean the commutator of carbon, and on re-assembling the parts, it's important to remember the insulating washers go next to the steel body, not on the outside of the wire contact strips/brush holders! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1YfAn3Wg57_G9BdkI0r1qaleeObH39I4uWtVZUjb9piuPMe12JYbYUHcYr5OhCAwE8K_UvbEqT2ii6BaivdFv_CLMQpapksWYThqzF1_O-bU3qLY2NTTSra-epFli6ILvWToMt59Vcjg/s1600/Ooops%2521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg1YfAn3Wg57_G9BdkI0r1qaleeObH39I4uWtVZUjb9piuPMe12JYbYUHcYr5OhCAwE8K_UvbEqT2ii6BaivdFv_CLMQpapksWYThqzF1_O-bU3qLY2NTTSra-epFli6ILvWToMt59Vcjg/s400/Ooops%2521.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Have fun. Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-20738544296617331972011-08-07T09:15:00.000-07:002011-08-07T09:45:14.119-07:00Simon says.......<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdI9hahEoHrdSCHVTFoH-lfbJj4TS_Dq-e5WtejVfXcfbku4hUzc2MnGD7rdt6EybtIEgjY8O9-8fvW3xBOGuzgg09ZpnRbcRl3CFXM-lfbU4k6Z7hQUKguhNo1DC7YjoZpsLixR4SezCi/s1600/SIMON+2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 388px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdI9hahEoHrdSCHVTFoH-lfbJj4TS_Dq-e5WtejVfXcfbku4hUzc2MnGD7rdt6EybtIEgjY8O9-8fvW3xBOGuzgg09ZpnRbcRl3CFXM-lfbU4k6Z7hQUKguhNo1DC7YjoZpsLixR4SezCi/s400/SIMON+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638155779435498642" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCVVqQUri9IpP5FaqdlkFXJ_1TaNhqmTubWT3C3xxPEVdgRc_0RCi-icVyut3r0XADEX1j0pynmdZz7jxirwadL0Trxneko6XUYjo2SMIFvDkUSxWPQpiIuvgV_RlYRD_jl3wpSrhyJlC/s1600/SIMON+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 390px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCVVqQUri9IpP5FaqdlkFXJ_1TaNhqmTubWT3C3xxPEVdgRc_0RCi-icVyut3r0XADEX1j0pynmdZz7jxirwadL0Trxneko6XUYjo2SMIFvDkUSxWPQpiIuvgV_RlYRD_jl3wpSrhyJlC/s400/SIMON+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638152422892612434" /></a><br />Fence Houses team member Simon Perkins has been saying for some time that he has "nearly finished" Wapping Bridge signal box. It's been quite some time coming, but we finally got delivery last Wednesday, and all I can say is, that it's more than worth the wait! We now all need lessons from Simon in brickwork painting and weathering!<br />This little box is adjacent to the down main line, and controlled the southern end of the four track section junction that ultimately ends at another signal box, Penshaw North (see previous postings). There was approximately 1.5 miles between the two real boxes, but as previously mentioned in an earlier posting, our boxes are only 1.5mtrs apart. Hopefully no one will notice the lack of distance, once they see the effort and quality of the work that has gone in to the models!<br />These two shots show the box in position, but not finally installed, as we intend to put a retaining wall at the sides and rear, to hold back the earthworks. Simon can show us then how to create the fantastic painted finish he has achieved.<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-76959325463757802192011-07-16T00:33:00.000-07:002011-07-16T00:49:12.006-07:00Moving Pictures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDsi4EA8S51rxspg8kkLcx3UTnvwnjuejAXgQViiID_l3N8bjH5B5A7fA58DZaUzWpW0d_qpK4WIY_rr4TKy-rn54rDpKFtqBgIFioCjPWA5wXrHov0DgWKLQ-5UK6mY9CvtGVQZimYd6/s1600/BLACK+BOY+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDsi4EA8S51rxspg8kkLcx3UTnvwnjuejAXgQViiID_l3N8bjH5B5A7fA58DZaUzWpW0d_qpK4WIY_rr4TKy-rn54rDpKFtqBgIFioCjPWA5wXrHov0DgWKLQ-5UK6mY9CvtGVQZimYd6/s400/BLACK+BOY+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629852302876502722" /></a><br />Further to my last posting, and the still photos previous to that, here's the link to the video made by Mick at the 8th July meeting of the North East Finescale Group (NEFG). This local group comprises modellers interested in all scales/gauges.<br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Qzn8BLj7Ak<br />Class 24 diesels abound as the motive power. We've spent that much time progressing the layout that steam loco servicing has taken a back seat. Something we shall be addressing shortly, with the upcoming August exhibition in mind!<br />As it seems a bit odd not having any photos in a posting, here's one of Black Boy Bridge at the 'exit stage left' location. Nothing to do with ethnicity, more to do with black faced coal miners from the local pits!<br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-15088118171204608342011-07-14T12:58:00.000-07:002011-07-14T13:27:12.405-07:00Oh yes it is, Oh no it's SNOT!No pictures this time, but today's proceedings at North Shields culminated in my previously slippy 9F, hauling 40 of Chris Mills build of the 21t hoppers! 92099 struggled with less than 20 in times past, and we actually ran out of hoppers to put behind her this time, as she could have taken more. We did have a little wheel slip on the first circuit coming off Victoria, but not on the second, so she must have been getting in to her stride!<br />The reason for this transformation? That wonderfully named product "Bullfrog Snot"!<br />I'd applied the solution to the second pair of drivers from the front, and at the second attempt (not happy with a bumpy finish first time around) I left it to dry till I could give the engine a test on a decent train length....... that was months ago, and it's taken this long to get the whole layout up and running in test mode. Well today we tried it and I'm amazed, even though I've seen the videos before (type Bullfrog Snot in to Google and believe!)<br />Talking of videos, Mick has taken a new one of train movements on the layout which will be appearing shortly. I'll post the link when we get it. I've seen the initial video which I think is brilliant, but Mick's perfectionist eye has spotted something he's not happy with, so you will just have to wait a couple more days for the treat!<br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-63618962049659882482011-07-12T13:18:00.000-07:002011-07-12T13:53:14.936-07:00Fence Houses at North Shields<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hTmuruF2YCwfyrkjz98BbMiqatc54j8pslPZBH3SB-J4C9ENMth53voGL-hnhJF9euUJ7FNRQJHw5Tuf3Ta6zlM5_GPCqorvZ-2svn4BBNX6pImhjwZWLBu6dW_3FJIVYVUrfWMYiwgf/s1600/PUB+GARDEN+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 244px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hTmuruF2YCwfyrkjz98BbMiqatc54j8pslPZBH3SB-J4C9ENMth53voGL-hnhJF9euUJ7FNRQJHw5Tuf3Ta6zlM5_GPCqorvZ-2svn4BBNX6pImhjwZWLBu6dW_3FJIVYVUrfWMYiwgf/s400/PUB+GARDEN+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628567278596124242" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNriVJ7WsaLcrMGLXyP3Yo_mQ6CCzkl6ULBr21Yd-35TrmfJAJ_aEsIsSs4QAuw7KdKEypwrunw0iH93pI-wPXaRwdxP3KSOleQ9VBf1z6ppphMX58RSw5pxHkGid7umizE_WoFNPztY2_/s1600/COAL+DROP+2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNriVJ7WsaLcrMGLXyP3Yo_mQ6CCzkl6ULBr21Yd-35TrmfJAJ_aEsIsSs4QAuw7KdKEypwrunw0iH93pI-wPXaRwdxP3KSOleQ9VBf1z6ppphMX58RSw5pxHkGid7umizE_WoFNPztY2_/s400/COAL+DROP+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628567121379843874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI36FOL__ZGHrkg3fm2wm-zYChVP3eqchHrui5ZQxxOexNXu3nMFY3Db5H8GH787pxymc8QhzgmIRPpGyJMdlTVZAKK7sym5Zsw11YPIOyH7IQi3Fe7c7jCsJM8ZVmtAbFeKoxyQuYooIr/s1600/LOW+LAMBTON+3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI36FOL__ZGHrkg3fm2wm-zYChVP3eqchHrui5ZQxxOexNXu3nMFY3Db5H8GH787pxymc8QhzgmIRPpGyJMdlTVZAKK7sym5Zsw11YPIOyH7IQi3Fe7c7jCsJM8ZVmtAbFeKoxyQuYooIr/s400/LOW+LAMBTON+3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628566922217805618" /></a><br />We've been there a week today, after setting the whole layout up for testing. It's the first time in exactly a year (since the Oxford Expo), that it's all been put together after ballasting and scenic work having been carried out, and all sorts of things have been done in an effort to get ready for the show at the end of August. It's getting near now to bringing it all back home again to finish off some other things in comfort.<br />Before we strip down I've taken a few photos. Compare Low Lambton Bridge with the posting on the 8th January 2011. Looking north we have the general shot of the signal box and the other station buildings behind. Note the coal drops in the right foreground. Looking south shows Alan's rendition of the pub garden, and the footbridge is now painted and populated. I should mention the fact that the buildings (with the exception of the goods shed and the coal depot office) are not yet stuck down. The signal box especially is noticeable in that the base has yet to be bedded in with ballast. However, I think we're starting to get there.<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-20321297205248642762011-07-03T00:26:00.000-07:002011-07-03T22:57:06.651-07:0012 Months on<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_jsypLUMfbpXumWz1sZgJeMS3Tn7hfD3rgLRRY3M2qPq7pVdpaDJqkrUYgW1470qlLB2gJa7jx0_SbQnS6Zw8ENPoRKXOqVFOP0LgLkbxmzokwtKG6vXjGnmAbl8UYNAqp11IvpR6ND5/s1600/VENUE+MAP+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_jsypLUMfbpXumWz1sZgJeMS3Tn7hfD3rgLRRY3M2qPq7pVdpaDJqkrUYgW1470qlLB2gJa7jx0_SbQnS6Zw8ENPoRKXOqVFOP0LgLkbxmzokwtKG6vXjGnmAbl8UYNAqp11IvpR6ND5/s400/VENUE+MAP+2011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625372070448579906" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsrMtRaYaErAe2Qk5PVM2cFY9v-rEuHPV5BfKRIiJ1o3fsmAPs1Je0C8NHe5220NdZZ9WJqSWAu25WXgD2yFwNscvcxr88WoVF01piP759fqx8i177ff_Wik-qLjN8rgrDlkyifWwzy3a/s1600/Hall+Layout+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsrMtRaYaErAe2Qk5PVM2cFY9v-rEuHPV5BfKRIiJ1o3fsmAPs1Je0C8NHe5220NdZZ9WJqSWAu25WXgD2yFwNscvcxr88WoVF01piP759fqx8i177ff_Wik-qLjN8rgrDlkyifWwzy3a/s400/Hall+Layout+2011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625371854991373458" /></a><br />Can you believe it's a year since that incredible Oxford get together?<br />Coincidentally we are just about to set up the whole layout again for the first time in 12 months. This will be in North Shields, where we are to spend at least a week at the substantial new premises of The Blyth & Tyne MRC, where a few of us are members. The premises are only about a mile from the upcoming exhibition venue, and we're hoping that a week or so spent tweaking, altering (Les is to fit a new power booster to electrically separate the front viewing area from the rear fiddle yards), and re-checking everything will result in a stress free (you must be joking!) weekend in August. At least let's hope it won't be as hot and humid as the Oxford venue, with all the funny/peculiar DCC chip happenings that went on there on that fateful Sunday! Both Mick and Les intend making some video footage of the time we have in the clubrooms, so look out Youtube! I might take some stills as well for posting here. The attached two posters are for the August exhibition, and note the club site at http://www.railexne.com/ where more details of the attending layouts can be seen (click on 'Layouts, demos & Traders'). If you've viewed this site previously, note that the famous and well regarded NER layout Bramblewick is not now attending until 2012. Professional Artist and layout owner Tom Harland is undergoing hospital treatment at this time, and we all wish Tom the very best of health and a speedy recovery. Fence Houses still has a long way to go, especially with regard to the 'proper' stock period etc. and stock levels generally, not to mention signalling (what signalling!) but after the fantastic progress we've made since last July, we're getting there. A great big thank you to all the team from me.<br />One member of the team deserves a special mention. Jean. Come September we'll have been married 45 years, and she's still here, even after TWO Fence Houses! This has to be a record for someone with no interest at all in modelling, and I can only say how lucky am I! Our FH days are usually well attended for modelling purposes, but maybe some of Jean's cakes help the other team members remember another reason for coming along?<br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-77052025122408737342011-05-27T04:44:00.001-07:002011-05-27T04:56:28.573-07:00Oh, and one last thing.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-zbaOHgAfWO1ne8KWld6Y0fDId056xL6OIOzt44MiLX1QDK8uPWYtOwObIes6JxR4X-MVwp7en8HxTj5Lpv3XoP8PQz2IoEWI4SKMwMRmgVSe4Bj1z8cUuzUkmpy-hu5A2M1BcKo1ddx/s1600/VICTORIA+WATER.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-zbaOHgAfWO1ne8KWld6Y0fDId056xL6OIOzt44MiLX1QDK8uPWYtOwObIes6JxR4X-MVwp7en8HxTj5Lpv3XoP8PQz2IoEWI4SKMwMRmgVSe4Bj1z8cUuzUkmpy-hu5A2M1BcKo1ddx/s400/VICTORIA+WATER.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611360683181074274" /></a><br />In all the postings I've made here, it seems this is the first photo of the real Victoria viaduct, (this is just a part of it). I think she's beautiful, even if she is 173 years old!<br />She looks so slender, but those dark areas under the arches are 25 feet wide. That indicates to me not just the shear size, but how well designed and built she is. <br />Thinks........ must get that water effect on the model finished off.<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-89108935510863063662011-05-27T04:08:00.000-07:002011-05-27T04:42:46.289-07:00Even more progress at Fence Houses<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIrvm6HiLhyphenhyphenefJMRmCTEZwHN9FG2sbj4cautxKbX5d2R1C6tx7WuBBORW0ULJIxQHnPd6Mtvi8NigcmFjtE1s5445ln2sYlYMgmfn-6SJ-LMAtmtscX4qO4o0MdQbA8hzIxt0GeEbzIvM/s1600/GOODS+SHED+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIrvm6HiLhyphenhyphenefJMRmCTEZwHN9FG2sbj4cautxKbX5d2R1C6tx7WuBBORW0ULJIxQHnPd6Mtvi8NigcmFjtE1s5445ln2sYlYMgmfn-6SJ-LMAtmtscX4qO4o0MdQbA8hzIxt0GeEbzIvM/s400/GOODS+SHED+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611353253130793794" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXslOff4PxOTJtDXZ2ROIpe1eSQLjZnUCoRjMnJkjnGJS1cDgzmNvLQyKa3otuyCd4ggVmZsi_N0i7sM527ajy1us-TIgKqKn5oMRwX89XD_vgVOz5Gcl59bSvfq5LFqWooHQa7-7b_pUj/s1600/FOOTBRIDGE+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXslOff4PxOTJtDXZ2ROIpe1eSQLjZnUCoRjMnJkjnGJS1cDgzmNvLQyKa3otuyCd4ggVmZsi_N0i7sM527ajy1us-TIgKqKn5oMRwX89XD_vgVOz5Gcl59bSvfq5LFqWooHQa7-7b_pUj/s400/FOOTBRIDGE+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611353078359446306" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0zCn-y4EFNitQBL9LditejsA27IW6hzGrRsx9hHdzh4T7eUXgdtJ08AAwnstA7lGhdO8w6hyphenhyphensB9zppCC8XjkBSIVHlj6UKaRx_x3vPnqelSBH7wCoqy6ZT9YQHFEpJzr7vdOgV2AHTNW/s1600/SIGNAL+BOX+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0zCn-y4EFNitQBL9LditejsA27IW6hzGrRsx9hHdzh4T7eUXgdtJ08AAwnstA7lGhdO8w6hyphenhyphensB9zppCC8XjkBSIVHlj6UKaRx_x3vPnqelSBH7wCoqy6ZT9YQHFEpJzr7vdOgV2AHTNW/s400/SIGNAL+BOX+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611352923207253362" /></a><br />More of Alan's recent photos, showing the station buildings from the 'N' gauge version of 30 years ago. We have the signal box, then the goods shed (with one missing door), and showing the wooden platform extensions in the foreground. Note also the octagonal shaped cattle auction mart in the left background. Next the footbridge, which is finished apart from painting. This shot shows the Station Inn in the background, and also where I'm awaiting some etches to complete the sloping fences at the platform ends, one run of which has the paper print out in place where I've used it to check that I have the angles and length correct.<br /><br />BobBob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-39986488257488701462011-05-27T02:19:00.000-07:002011-05-27T04:07:06.085-07:00Alan Pearson's scenic work at Fence Houses<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3q_7rjw-yieVyiJF9Zkrnf5dHI5zDz71FduzEq1e3FoIAyb-jE-SvOkkDh8itbeZb9yMFANxW6fXLOOdq8iitaEOTtJuRv_MK3L4E37LeQ0lVOAeXhmMwzHX7ywU3tHlPGbhyknuuCgN/s1600/HILLS+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3q_7rjw-yieVyiJF9Zkrnf5dHI5zDz71FduzEq1e3FoIAyb-jE-SvOkkDh8itbeZb9yMFANxW6fXLOOdq8iitaEOTtJuRv_MK3L4E37LeQ0lVOAeXhmMwzHX7ywU3tHlPGbhyknuuCgN/s400/HILLS+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611348727936765090" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOXfMWy7FNllQnIOvkbvQFfB1gcCf0r7W3DlA10-pwxLFAvxup9cBc1pSpIcO50LgysSrnK0UZXZqOlR0l0O8DRe1TMVVYlGRcQZ0KM4W0ke4cqg4_gpTl_0InMvz5W9-Rb5lC9AuC8py/s1600/TREES+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOXfMWy7FNllQnIOvkbvQFfB1gcCf0r7W3DlA10-pwxLFAvxup9cBc1pSpIcO50LgysSrnK0UZXZqOlR0l0O8DRe1TMVVYlGRcQZ0KM4W0ke4cqg4_gpTl_0InMvz5W9-Rb5lC9AuC8py/s400/TREES+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611347747394387810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxN-SiesojrARHyqm-Uo0vuciLOT2PKxWeVMfL4R5uetBdYmhpoEp9JWOANfuKfB-urTSrHcGQMIZeJpNGWS0U6bMT9CQyju7Jw8sm-xPdeYJxRxZNxEqW_3rIQFnF75gaiuO4DVDdbFDv/s1600/FLOWERS+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxN-SiesojrARHyqm-Uo0vuciLOT2PKxWeVMfL4R5uetBdYmhpoEp9JWOANfuKfB-urTSrHcGQMIZeJpNGWS0U6bMT9CQyju7Jw8sm-xPdeYJxRxZNxEqW_3rIQFnF75gaiuO4DVDdbFDv/s400/FLOWERS+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611347586537742994" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />After Les' article in MRJ 207, I thought I'd share with you a few photos of the latest progress on the layout, especially Alan's amazing scenic work.<br />These were taken by Alan at an impromptu session we had the other day, hence on some you will see a not very complimentary background (my garage, where we do most of the work these days).<br />The exception is the use of Mike Raithby's back-scene from Victoria viaduct, which, as the only painted back-scene we have to date, gets in on the act for most of our photography lately! There is a detail shot of some flowers at Morton wood, followed by a general shot of the wood itself, or at least our little part of it.<br />The other photo is of a scenic area just to the south of Morton wood, with Mike's background showing (again) to great advantage.<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-81893813373704796172011-03-23T10:23:00.000-07:002011-03-23T11:41:21.580-07:00Scenic Progress<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUbImz4b-mKFOuDKnT_GQCqvdBAup7rp_2lQDPP4omfpLkPz_SwznSMEqdl49l2xXea5Rolsdi5fCRARfufy0taQkF08yxGzzfBGJupF09V29O0AJ4MjLQYlTmJ8zx7vphQBOBa4eljN4/s1600/LOCOS+2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUbImz4b-mKFOuDKnT_GQCqvdBAup7rp_2lQDPP4omfpLkPz_SwznSMEqdl49l2xXea5Rolsdi5fCRARfufy0taQkF08yxGzzfBGJupF09V29O0AJ4MjLQYlTmJ8zx7vphQBOBa4eljN4/s400/LOCOS+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587344093250557250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfj-1h9JTAA9atVHgw4GKhLSERu9uFgB4_-F5N9oPr-PPajGvbpnQlFKQb_pj0Uhs4Jz4DpAMHSlUppWcDvcSneogpn86IvRgooGa0b3ofIIhpG0IqVN1-DOvjPljJhgm11vuihnvo96h/s1600/DMU+3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfj-1h9JTAA9atVHgw4GKhLSERu9uFgB4_-F5N9oPr-PPajGvbpnQlFKQb_pj0Uhs4Jz4DpAMHSlUppWcDvcSneogpn86IvRgooGa0b3ofIIhpG0IqVN1-DOvjPljJhgm11vuihnvo96h/s400/DMU+3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587343893454060018" /></a><br />These two photos show some of the scenic progress made by team member Alan Pearson on board six, which has the exchange sidings, south of the station and just prior to entering the fiddle yard. The work Alan has recently put in is yielding some very impressive results, including the use of some natural material, along with an etched tree skeleton, suitably clad. Thanks Alan.<br />The trackwork looks rather bare without the Chris Mills hoppers filling the area! <br />This posting might well have been headed "is this 'N' gauge mister", thanks to Bachmann Farish products coming to the rescue on stock levels! The 3 car DMU belongs to Les Waters, and has just had 2mm Association replacement drop in wheelsets fitted. The class 24 on the left is mine, and was fitted likewise prior to last July's 50th bash at Oxford. The B1 has only recently arrived at Fence Houses, and is awaiting wheel reprofiling....... when I pluck up the courage! Well if Mick can do it on a 4MT, then I'll have a go too. Watch this space.<br />Ah well, back down the pit (what does he mean I hear you ask, well keep checking the blog and find out!)<br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-27032033822261945292011-01-08T06:13:00.000-08:002011-01-09T02:01:24.827-08:00Low Lambton Farm Access Bridge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS2DH1GsqI47SDucjzDRESF5HuF5ta96u6x4ZpIU8jzPdGgZmANa1DBFJ-eIArcbDbWz54Mt2sb2eYcoGnWUDJUJBm0BW99yoDkRIg637YXtNWyrlBENCml0qkvmeter8BmRXWMkRd1HpV/s1600/BRIDGE+5.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS2DH1GsqI47SDucjzDRESF5HuF5ta96u6x4ZpIU8jzPdGgZmANa1DBFJ-eIArcbDbWz54Mt2sb2eYcoGnWUDJUJBm0BW99yoDkRIg637YXtNWyrlBENCml0qkvmeter8BmRXWMkRd1HpV/s400/BRIDGE+5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559825755846474530" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnTzzBCoLvYH2njK-U2Q85RDmK8OYyck7w83DB8un35kZ248z0qAUa-TRUe7qHMOvPqY7RxSEhelmIlpHt5FwlDxfcnU4sWtlFTvuZEwfODXtNuO4q8rfCgJ_5yORUJtUIZlMap1pGucH/s1600/BRIDGE+3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 236px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnTzzBCoLvYH2njK-U2Q85RDmK8OYyck7w83DB8un35kZ248z0qAUa-TRUe7qHMOvPqY7RxSEhelmIlpHt5FwlDxfcnU4sWtlFTvuZEwfODXtNuO4q8rfCgJ_5yORUJtUIZlMap1pGucH/s400/BRIDGE+3.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559825482847483506" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIcig4Nm-bEVSgnPTsIhcocbl5qKUD0SEkvSB7eanpCHI4fEbMSWxuco6dEFYmWuw6GTBFUab0Y67vEa8aqMVtBA0PU3ZjbCnRSNIUf65nx7q5flexeW_6ZjQW0CUCkqp38INAEizeorZ/s1600/BRIDGE+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsIcig4Nm-bEVSgnPTsIhcocbl5qKUD0SEkvSB7eanpCHI4fEbMSWxuco6dEFYmWuw6GTBFUab0Y67vEa8aqMVtBA0PU3ZjbCnRSNIUf65nx7q5flexeW_6ZjQW0CUCkqp38INAEizeorZ/s400/BRIDGE+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559825260789421634" /></a><br />This slightly unusual bridge is situated just a few yards south of Penshaw North box, which featured in my last couple of postings. Well it seems unusual to me, because of the mix of masonry materials used. I'm guessing, but it looks like The North Eastern Railway built their side over the four track main and relief lines part in the more pleasing (and presumably expensive) stone, whereas the colliery lines made do with a more economical brick version for their part of the structure. As used on the previously mentioned signal box, Slater's Plastikard has been used for the brick and stone work. In reality the actual bridge metalwork seems to have been in two parts as well. Though indistinct, photographs appear to show a different design for the platework for the two sections. Again, the colliery span differs, and seems to be provided with fewer strengthening uprights on the sides. Regardless of this I've etched the whole span in one design as shown here. Note the colliery lines on the layout are to be out of sight under the embankment on this baseboard, and also partly out of sight on the two adjacent boards as well. One photo shows the situation without the removable embankment section in place. The other photos show the embankment in place. The colliery lines are diving down to pass under the main lines here, so that they are out of sight by the time the main lines reach Victoria viaduct, which caters for only the up and down lines. On the photo looking south along the lines, the track to Low Lambton Farm can be made out coming off the bridge on the right hand side, while on the left hand side you can see where we are to represent the actual Lambton railway colliery lines, lifted and abandoned. Apart from the bridge and masonry, it's obvious that much scenery and greenery has yet to be done, but we are getting there, and we should start using the electrostatic grass applicator soon. Some of you may be interested in the fine gauze type netting we have used to cover the polystyrene and removable embankment sections in. This was bought from Aldi about a year ago, and was sold as winter protection for vulnerable garden plants! Applied using pva glue (before and after laying in place), it sets and gives a finish when dry, a bit like fibre glass. Seems ideal for painting with enamel (nothing water based obviously due to the previous application of pva), and should be ideal for our requirements. <br />Happy New Year, Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-47724531691639270752010-12-07T05:07:00.000-08:002010-12-07T05:19:31.350-08:00Penshaw North Box - The Dark Side<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_w1e-EOYuI9LDDMz_BVvWo2LQ7zVxkfJWoyALr84eSwMsub6icQhKew2D2ejC9DM2uYxuF4e1YINtKJ6htUWDD1ZMFRaShITQHaGedFj3NmSjbAJ7uD7pv6fTYD6fhwVy2DXyrhyphenhyphenkFKRC/s1600/PENBOX+REAR.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_w1e-EOYuI9LDDMz_BVvWo2LQ7zVxkfJWoyALr84eSwMsub6icQhKew2D2ejC9DM2uYxuF4e1YINtKJ6htUWDD1ZMFRaShITQHaGedFj3NmSjbAJ7uD7pv6fTYD6fhwVy2DXyrhyphenhyphenkFKRC/s400/PENBOX+REAR.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547928657821982226" /></a><br />Like our nearest celestial neighbour, this is the side you wont ever see....... unless you are an operator on the layout peering over the top of the backscene.<br />Forgot to include this view in yesterday's posting, so two postings in two days!<br />Also forgot to include any build details in the previous missive. The whole thing, excluding the brick base supports is an etching in my normal 0.25mm thick nickel silver . The brick wall under the chimney in this shot is also part of the etch. The box itself comprises the main three layers, representing the front and rear 'sliding' windows (which don't) and the outer framework 'wood' parts. In addition at the top, is another overlay representing the barge boards and guttering. The main roof is half etched and rolled to shape prior to soldering on (slots and tabs for location). There is some internal detailing in progress, such as the lever frame, table and chair etc. but I have not yet started the glazing........ should be fun! After all this is finished the box will be permanently secured to the floor. There will be the operating wires to run down the inside of the wall of course, but I'm not sure how far we'll go with the point rodding yet. One of many detailing jobs that will need tackling sometime. All Handrails and posts are etched to shape. I know some people don't go for this as the sections come out square as opposed to round. The brick bases are in 4mm scale embossed brickwork Plastikard. I don't mind these scale deviations, as from NVD (normal viewing distance) they are hardly if ever noticed. Be honest, like the over scale brickwork, did you really notice the square handrails before I told you? If you did, bear in mind the enlargement of the photos. The four layer thick support girders for instance are 110mm long x 10mm high, and the brick supports are 40mm high. Drop the sizes down to these figures and take another look.<br />I've spent quite some time on the painting and weathering. Anyway, I pleased with it, though I'm no Mike Raithby!<br />No modelling yet today, as I've been out on the shovel again this morning in readyness for the weekly get together tomorrow. From upstairs it looked like just a cm thick, but when I tackled it it was more like 3cm, plus the ice my neighbours over the road had left me to clear up after their departure for the daily grind. It's so much harder to shift after it's been compacted!<br />Talking of tomorrow, we're hoping to get a first try with the two newly acquired ESU radio control handhelds for the ECoS. Another learning curve! At least we will be in the warmth of the house instead of the garage.<br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-50730986608493907392010-12-06T09:15:00.000-08:002010-12-06T09:27:46.342-08:00Penshaw North Signal Box<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IGasvEoLRKSIQ1x6Hz6UwdOrenJVw4NltuNLMeGnfAcQE7NUN3ArLuz8qmE7y3iU3Hlj0bMysqgEqkeo2t_MDZvfO9ixXXJEpBsti1mv0UcV2fmWSZDSMwmsaj2WbO7mGjQIjz4Rjuqc/s1600/penshaw+north+Nev+056.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IGasvEoLRKSIQ1x6Hz6UwdOrenJVw4NltuNLMeGnfAcQE7NUN3ArLuz8qmE7y3iU3Hlj0bMysqgEqkeo2t_MDZvfO9ixXXJEpBsti1mv0UcV2fmWSZDSMwmsaj2WbO7mGjQIjz4Rjuqc/s400/penshaw+north+Nev+056.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547620603853433090" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBqoIeJbyFAMTEAqDa6QuUGZv57STAaldAZLb285lezXY29sgnv11rEaZFZj0c5KBJ11bqgnO3sb1MQy5NWMa7Wt8wIYi8sdN_wS-oz53yNSIwVX6ySl8gC4y2Q3_xHQp_2f3I4-Sd3nO/s1600/PEN+BOX1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 372px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBqoIeJbyFAMTEAqDa6QuUGZv57STAaldAZLb285lezXY29sgnv11rEaZFZj0c5KBJ11bqgnO3sb1MQy5NWMa7Wt8wIYi8sdN_wS-oz53yNSIwVX6ySl8gC4y2Q3_xHQp_2f3I4-Sd3nO/s400/PEN+BOX1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547620151592923746" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGW9ky_PAGskXd0Kvco3RxvU-xyYibjRU1UDOZEykLD6DR9NiD3pldBmxJqnY1EAvWopBS_ldqD9tW-MYJqXnfuOFQauQG6EPML9MHQ5GC_fxNd9j_kg7e9J9-7twwOkbDptmLnauXk6eE/s1600/PEN+BOX2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 304px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGW9ky_PAGskXd0Kvco3RxvU-xyYibjRU1UDOZEykLD6DR9NiD3pldBmxJqnY1EAvWopBS_ldqD9tW-MYJqXnfuOFQauQG6EPML9MHQ5GC_fxNd9j_kg7e9J9-7twwOkbDptmLnauXk6eE/s400/PEN+BOX2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547619866172982418" /></a><br />The rather excessive snow around the North East having curtailed various other activities, has at least kept me fit with all the shovelling, and has enabled some progress to be made with the box. As an appeasement to the villagers of Penshaw and it's station (located between Fence Houses and Victoria viaduct), which have for space reasons been omitted from the layout, I have at least made a decent effort to model the overtrack signal box at the junction. The box spans four tracks here, and was kept busy even in the late 60's, according to one of the signalman, Neville Whaler.<br />Nev has sent me loads of photos of the box (one of himself at the controls is above), along with various shots of just some of the adjacent lattice signals. Lots of etching work to do now to get this lot incorporated on to the layout!<br />The box is not fully fitted yet, so still a few hours more work to do on all the bits and pieces, but nearly there.<br />Note the outside 'netty' (NE for toilet) and the little crane for hauling a bucket of coal up to the box. Apparently it was safer than going up and down the stairs!<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-35366823041651436722010-10-27T01:04:00.000-07:002010-10-27T01:16:41.083-07:00Oh Ballast!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9_Em1pTJzGSznZ-AJdkGLT4LII3ThuEEX8RDnNz6Q78n3rJlgdiXZ79sAszzMcIuiNRGlHNmc8ApXkNnrhwiLdirQLEB-HeMBON2Blgrg8SiLJTPv3Pz1AEgtX6g7lVq1OCHtBiUmWxl/s1600/BALLAST+4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9_Em1pTJzGSznZ-AJdkGLT4LII3ThuEEX8RDnNz6Q78n3rJlgdiXZ79sAszzMcIuiNRGlHNmc8ApXkNnrhwiLdirQLEB-HeMBON2Blgrg8SiLJTPv3Pz1AEgtX6g7lVq1OCHtBiUmWxl/s400/BALLAST+4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532636384558533250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-zzJi02_XvHWL5hyd3agd_VvWEluVvNj0-ndMkl2mYPtsHKrRsOOOs4c57mg9bgFKKaqQyQ2HgN46GjVzhPNLyz560XsW6R9MIia-u38EM7l6z0s0dwnJnVECdd5lVyCm6AatfDv5nmm/s1600/BALLAST+2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 376px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-zzJi02_XvHWL5hyd3agd_VvWEluVvNj0-ndMkl2mYPtsHKrRsOOOs4c57mg9bgFKKaqQyQ2HgN46GjVzhPNLyz560XsW6R9MIia-u38EM7l6z0s0dwnJnVECdd5lVyCm6AatfDv5nmm/s400/BALLAST+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532636017474143874" /></a><br />It may seem from the lack of posts that nothing is being done......... far from it!<br />The first exhibition is now only 10 months away and we are under pressure, though enjoying it (well David will be when he finishes re-building his house).<br />We have now finished applying the track ballast, and are in the middle of cleaning up and making sure the trains will run again.<br />Some of the basic scenery has been applied, but there will be no more until we are fully finished on the trackwork/ballast. No point in hampering yourself by putting things in the way!<br />Happy modelling, Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-49437083796391018232010-07-30T09:48:00.000-07:002010-07-30T09:59:16.286-07:00The shunting plank<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0RoQll9nB4tVGi-QJZNnaW35ZeloQsiFBn7ppUtIlawGVBMWy8yuEewP16LGi1IKoqK791Enulq9tqkYpX9htP1Yr8aZ-lCGhry8eeukSaQ5KGaRPIu9HOhJa_POfj46wkQLgEYqRGTo/s1600/Fence+Houses+-+This+is+no+shunting+plank.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 172px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0RoQll9nB4tVGi-QJZNnaW35ZeloQsiFBn7ppUtIlawGVBMWy8yuEewP16LGi1IKoqK791Enulq9tqkYpX9htP1Yr8aZ-lCGhry8eeukSaQ5KGaRPIu9HOhJa_POfj46wkQLgEYqRGTo/s400/Fence+Houses+-+This+is+no+shunting+plank.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499744103320610994" /></a><br />Been a while since I posted, so for anyone who did not make it, here is a photo from Expo at Oxford.<br />Not mine, but one of Paul Martin's for which I have permission to show.<br />In order to get said permission I did agree to state:- "This awesome image created by the skill wit and judgement of master-photographer P. Martin Esq." <br />Thanks Paul!<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-42363349135984202722010-05-07T08:26:00.000-07:002010-05-07T09:23:28.106-07:00Fence Houses - The Full Monty!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLAr3_9Cd3fjfU3bt_IMVpWsL_maSMOQ3te5GMB-6_AXkHQtpkA14lIvAenyaRUm5SEHj9bM80Xdh-GWki00NZKK5crrwyK4XBKlGpDVGVNJ9l8kYiPbW6m_GnlTdFWz1V_VwAVUoy4ZZ/s1600/MONTY4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 324px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLAr3_9Cd3fjfU3bt_IMVpWsL_maSMOQ3te5GMB-6_AXkHQtpkA14lIvAenyaRUm5SEHj9bM80Xdh-GWki00NZKK5crrwyK4XBKlGpDVGVNJ9l8kYiPbW6m_GnlTdFWz1V_VwAVUoy4ZZ/s400/MONTY4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468563811272262882" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGcce96Zj3lqFRpkNhiaedKlM6p4kpiFBQMIF6QgcltFdCc_dGCt0EIBY989V04-G_lamj8lshLL3h89Etwk0_Knavvoa4iS3milT8UXQ5KLtZVYxfgteQzlVoKuGORF8jlc3VxgSDjee/s1600/MONTY2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGcce96Zj3lqFRpkNhiaedKlM6p4kpiFBQMIF6QgcltFdCc_dGCt0EIBY989V04-G_lamj8lshLL3h89Etwk0_Knavvoa4iS3milT8UXQ5KLtZVYxfgteQzlVoKuGORF8jlc3VxgSDjee/s400/MONTY2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468563488760320930" /></a><br />Yesterday was a very momentous day for all concerned.<br />I agree with Nick, but then there's Gordon and David....... sorry I'll start again.<br />Late night watching part of the election results, then up early and out to Harrogate this morning for the Model Engineer's Show has taken it's toll! <br />Seriously, what a day we had yesterday (Thursday). After postponing the previous two days due to what turned out to be incorrect weather forecasts, we set about adding to the four baseboards I'd already set up under cover in the garage in readiness. Then came the drizzly rain, and a few cups of tea.....then lunch....then the first board....then more drizzle and plastic sheets, but finally some dry though dull weather. We decided to go for it.<br />All 14 baseboards went up as best we could, and we did well, considering the very unlevel area at the front of the house. Aldi's work stands are great, and will be even better when I install the height adjusters (screwed rod with knobs on) to the top rail.<br />Chris Mills plus wagons, then Mick and Yvonne all arrived to add to us lot (me, Les, Simon and David......'our' David that is, not the other one), and then the time came to turn the power on. Big fat Zero! Nothing but a dull red 'stop' light on the Ecos power unit. <br />What to do now? Fortunately Les had designed in some terminal block breaks on each board, and with Chris' help they soon isolated the problem area.<br />This was down to me. One red wire feed in a black position, and vice versa had the whole job stopped. Out with the soldering iron and five minutes later the red light had gone, and we were away!<br />Mick captured the first complete circuit on his mobile phone....see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqxEbDtc0To and I've added a couple of stills here to record the event for posterity. <br />Still a very long way to go, but we are all really looking forward to bringing "the big test track" to Expo, so we can start learning how to operate it!<br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4236929891973680300.post-47589743298832713332010-02-09T06:16:00.000-08:002010-02-09T09:21:46.454-08:00Fence Houses layout plan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3R6vqckvJ2Pi4p7ZSapuIXDOgvxuRHlArJvYFrhDIAfxDaR8cr1cA40yU7JdE6EuI4lJa_6tijn1SjdyeyBWliaYQVHuF6GOR3SmHlj6fpq457GXzLwU4iXpw5R4xfffGo-8b4SaeQTJY/s1600-h/FH+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3R6vqckvJ2Pi4p7ZSapuIXDOgvxuRHlArJvYFrhDIAfxDaR8cr1cA40yU7JdE6EuI4lJa_6tijn1SjdyeyBWliaYQVHuF6GOR3SmHlj6fpq457GXzLwU4iXpw5R4xfffGo-8b4SaeQTJY/s400/FH+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436249637270126578" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGwRB-FsvZnx0Ay9nEhphfTP2pGG7a3LUScBz1GntuyG4gwwAuaumb8h-nhV89KnRxxgtSuP7ssLKw-LsXSr9A1zL_dAElxkzB-ntbR800WZfQHQehdv_iDwx9JrUEoQUpgugnOJJmFJc/s1600-h/FH+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJGwRB-FsvZnx0Ay9nEhphfTP2pGG7a3LUScBz1GntuyG4gwwAuaumb8h-nhV89KnRxxgtSuP7ssLKw-LsXSr9A1zL_dAElxkzB-ntbR800WZfQHQehdv_iDwx9JrUEoQUpgugnOJJmFJc/s400/FH+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436249629743779250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ428-ggrWl4S_hEJ2FaTwTxAEidoISl1ocTlU0O5L6Vn0gV8Gzyf0dsK-6c6ohfr5OKKOc2FmeyRNvjSYz6sTJHgpw5eTqDYZt9zz-BZdMBXWznRvjteOzRsbxfPA-LyO0JiJK3oDIwD9/s1600-h/FH+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 327px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ428-ggrWl4S_hEJ2FaTwTxAEidoISl1ocTlU0O5L6Vn0gV8Gzyf0dsK-6c6ohfr5OKKOc2FmeyRNvjSYz6sTJHgpw5eTqDYZt9zz-BZdMBXWznRvjteOzRsbxfPA-LyO0JiJK3oDIwD9/s400/FH+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436249620740063858" /></a><br />I'm posting the layout plan here for the first time. It's in three parts, which can be cut out and joined at 'A' and 'B', to give the full plan (38'-6" x 9'). Originally it was 'only' 37'-0"long, but we have extended board 6 by a further 18", and because of that, board 12 also to match. Most of the track layout worked as planned, but the final stretch before reaching the end board 7 just ran out of space.<br />With a layout this big, what does an extra 18" matter!<br />At the viaduct end, compare the plan with the photo from my posting of 25th February 2009.<br />A lot of the latest track used is Easitrac. On the previous post this is much in evidence, coupled to the F.H. etched chairplated pointwork system. There are quite a few 'one off' shaped turnouts on view and it has all worked out quite well.<br />Note the track at the ends of the boards is all soldered construction. <br /><br />Bob.Bob Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07782791951738728704noreply@blogger.com0