Rea Valley Light Railway http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/ 19 rows en-gb 60 18 - Construction of 4 Plank 4 Wheeled Dropside Wagon Kit from I P Engineering http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1504046.html <p align=center>4 plank 4 wheeled full dropside wagon for the RVLR constructed from the I P Engineering Four Plank Wagon Kit. All of the models can be bought directly from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> <p align=center>These kits come complete with everything you need to make up this dropside wagon except for paint and glue. The body is made up from good quality plywood panels with white metal castings for ironwork and Hudson type axleboxes, these having brass bushes for the axle bearings. Wheel sets are of all steel construction. Even though the price is at the lower end of the market the model can be made up into an excellent addition to any 16mm:1ft model railway. <p align=center>The kit is supplied with instructions making construction straight forward. I chose to use Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) to build the model. The thin grade is excellent when using capillary action to draw the glue into the joints. The joint bonds very quickly and can then be strengthened by one or two more applications of glue. I have chosen to add some brake detail obtained from <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> <P><p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> <FONT COLOR=BROWN>or <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM> Saturday 3 May 2008: <p align=center>4 plank 4 wheeled full dropside wagon for the RVLR constructed from the I P Engineering Four Plank Wagon Kit. All of the models can be bought directly from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> <p align=center>These kits come complete with everything you need to make up this dropside wagon except for paint and glue. The body is made up from good quality plywood panels with white metal castings for ironwork and Hudson type axleboxes, these having brass bushes for the axle bearings. Wheel sets are of all steel construction. Even though the price is at the lower end of the market the model can be made up into an excellent addition to any 16mm:1ft model railway. <p align=center>The kit is supplied with instructions making construction straight forward. I chose to use Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) to build the model. The thin grade is excellent when using capillary action to draw the glue into the joints. The joint bonds very quickly and can then be strengthened by one or two more applications of glue. I have chosen to add some brake detail obtained from <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> <P><p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> <FONT COLOR=BROWN>or <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM>

The comprehensive set of parts supplied with the kit - 27 April 2008 The end and side panels are already scored on the outside to depict the planking - I decided to score the other sides as well so as to match the outsides - 27 April 2008 Starting with building the chassis onto the underneath of the wagon floor - The buffer beams have had the ends tapered so that they appear thinner than they actually are - 27 April 2008 The axleboxes were prepared by fixing the brass bushes in place - These were partially pressed in and then after adding a tiny drop of glue pressed flush to the casting - 27 April 2008 The side frames were made to fit perfectly between the two buffer beams and then the axleboxes were glued at the desired spacing - The fixing of each of the axleboxes was strengthened by adding two 3mm diameter by 6mm long bolts tapped into the side frames - The frame spacing and positioning were first established by dry building the chassis in place - Any adjustments needed to centralize the frames was done then - 27 April 2008 This later picture shows the 3mm bots in place firmly securing the axle boxes to the frames - 27 April 2008 The wheel sets are put in place and the other frame and axle boxes are positioned correctly and glued - The clamps hold the parts together and help to keep every thing flat by clamping it to a small glass cutting board - 27 April 2008 The whole thing is now checked over and left to dry - 27 April 2008 The end boards are fitted with their ironwork making sure that the board is at right angles to the wagon floor - The corner ironwork is fitted so that the catch at the top is on the sides of the wagon and not the ends - 27 April 2008 The length of the side-boards are reduced so that they are an easy fit between the two end-boards - The corner ironwork on the end-boards will overlap preventing the side-boards from falling out - 28 April 2008 The corner ironwork is filed down so that it is flush with the end-board - Now the catch detail is removed with the file - 28 April 2008 Using strips of card and pins a new iron strap and catch is made to fit the ends of the side-panels - 28 April 2008 The side-boards are fixed in place with their Using brake parts from Cambrian Models and pieces cut from styrene sheet a set of brakes are made to fit the one side of the wagon - 29 April 2008 With everything in place the complete wagon is given a coat of grey car primer followed by the coloured top coat with the ironwork picked out in black - 29 April 2008 Custom decals are added and a set of standard RVLR couplings are fitted - 16 May 2008 The finished wagon ready for service after being given a final coat of matt varnish - 16 May 2008

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Sat May 3 2008 17 - Construction of 3 plank dropside wagon for the RVLR from an AnDel Models kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1504018.html <p align=center>3 plank dropside wagons for the RVLR constructed from the AnDel Wide Bodied Open Wagon Kit. All of the models can be bought directly from the <A href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/AnDel-Models"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>AnDel Models</STRONG></FONT></A> eBay shop.<p align=center>These AnDel resin kits come complete with everything you need to make up this dropside wagon except for paint and glue. The castings are very good and the kit is well presented in a plastic box with a set of comprehensive instructions. The price also fits nicely into the lower end of the other kit suppliers with a model that would look well on anyone's garden railway against the best. <p align=center>Construction is very straight forward and can be completed in just a few hours. I chose to use Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) to build the model. The thin grade is excellent when using capillary action to draw the glue into the joints. The joint bonds very quickly and can then be strengthened by one or two more applications of glue.<P><p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/AnDel-Models"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>AnDel Models</STRONG></FONT></A> <FONT COLOR=BROWN>apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM> Saturday 3 May 2008: <p align=center>3 plank dropside wagons for the RVLR constructed from the AnDel Wide Bodied Open Wagon Kit. All of the models can be bought directly from the <A href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/AnDel-Models"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>AnDel Models</STRONG></FONT></A> eBay shop.<p align=center>These AnDel resin kits come complete with everything you need to make up this dropside wagon except for paint and glue. The castings are very good and the kit is well presented in a plastic box with a set of comprehensive instructions. The price also fits nicely into the lower end of the other kit suppliers with a model that would look well on anyone's garden railway against the best. <p align=center>Construction is very straight forward and can be completed in just a few hours. I chose to use Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) to build the model. The thin grade is excellent when using capillary action to draw the glue into the joints. The joint bonds very quickly and can then be strengthened by one or two more applications of glue.<P><p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/AnDel-Models"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>AnDel Models</STRONG></FONT></A> <FONT COLOR=BROWN>apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM>

Here the parts have been made ready to build the body - The panels are made up of two pieces so that the planking detail is shown on both sides - 26 April 2008 The end boards have both been fitted into place making sure that they are square to the wagon bed - 26 April 2008 The supporting iron work was then added - 26 April 2008 The side boards were reduced in length so that they were just a loose fit between the ends - 26 April 2008 The end supports for the sides are moulded with the catch to hold the side closed - The position of the catch was not as I would have expected and so this was changed as shown in the next two pictures - 26 April 2008 The sides were fixed in place with the hinges and end supports - When these had set the detail was removed from the tops of the end supports - 26 April 2008 The detail has been replaced the opposite way round to the original using pin heads to represent the rivets and a short strip of plastic for the catch - 26 April 2008 Once everything was in place for the body attention was turned to the chassis - The wheels supplied are turned plastic mounted on steel axles - These are well made and gauged correctly for running on most track systems - There is no reason why these wheels should give good service - For comparison with another AnDel kit I have fitted with the original plastic wheels I decided to change this set for a set of I P Engineering all steel wheel sets - 26 April 2008 The comprehensive non working brake gear is very straightforward to fit and adding this kind of detail really turns a good model into much more - 26 April 2008 Once completed the whole wagon was given a coat of grey primer followed by three coats of colour - Once this had all dried the ironwork and chassis were picked out in black - 30 April 2008 Sign writing was then added followed by a coat of matt varnish - 30 April 2008 To complete the wagon for the RVLR suitable couplings were added and then a final all over coat of matt varnish - 7 May 2008

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Sat May 3 2008 14 - Picture notes showing the construction of LYNX from a Locolines' CHUNKY kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1484697.html <p align=center>These pictures depict some of the stages during the construction of RVLR diesel loco D10 “LYNX” built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES‘</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> CHUNKY kit, January 2007. The finished loco sits on top of a <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> budget chassis which has an extended wheelbase and both axles driven. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE><I>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A></I> or <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><I><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A></I> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</FONT COLOR = BROWN> Monday 31 March 2008: <p align=center>These pictures depict some of the stages during the construction of RVLR diesel loco D10 _LYNX_ built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES_</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> CHUNKY kit, January 2007. The finished loco sits on top of a <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> budget chassis which has an extended wheelbase and both axles driven. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR=BLUE><I>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A></I> or <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><I><FONT COLOR=BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A></I> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</FONT COLOR = BROWN>

Cut out bonnet side panels - 2 January 2007 Fix wood strip to top of side panel and trim to size - 2 January 2007 Fit card spacers around the grill cutout leaving a gap of 5mm from grill cut-out - Cut grill to size and fit - 2 January 2007 Fix the engine printed card over the back of the grill - 2 January 2007 Finished side panel - 2 January 2007 The front grill is made up in a similar way to the sides -The quarter round moulding was fitted in place - 2 January 2007 I chose to make the front section taller than needed so that it could be cut to size when the engine cover was made up - 2 January 2007 Both side panels fitted in place - 2 January 2007 The top section is cut so that it is a perfect fit between the two sides - A wooden strip is added to each side - 2 January 2007 Top panel fitted - The front can now be trimmed to follow the shape of the engine cover - The overhang at the cab end is also trimmed to length - 2 January 2007 With everything trimmed to a tidy fit the cab front is fitted in place - 2 January 2007 This is now fixed to the footplate - Holding it down on a glass chopping board as seen here ensures that everything sits nice and square - 2 January 2007 The supplied parts are fitted under the footplate - The cut-out in the footplate is to allow the motor to be fitted vertically into the engine cover - 4 January 2007 This picture shows how all the joints between the cab panels have been created - Each panel is made up of a 3 piece laminate which sandwiches the glazing - The control panel has been fitted at this stage - 4 January 2007 All the cab panels are now in place - 6 January 2007 Almost finished loco with details added including makers plate and name plate- 14 January 2007 Almost finished loco - Wire handrails fitted as well as exhaust pipe and horns - 14 January 2007 Finished loco - Handrails are made from copper wire - The horns have been turned from wood and the exhaust pipe is wood - Multi height couplings are fitted to each end and finally windscreen wipers are added - 15 May 2008 Finished loco - A closer look at the additional details - 15 May 2008

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Mon Mar 31 2008 15 - RVLR Wickham Trolley - How it was constructed from the Locolines’ kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1482682.html <p align=center>RVLR Wickham Trolley and how it was built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES‘</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Wickham Trolley kit, 2008. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES‘</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</FONT COLOR = BROWN> Thursday 27 March 2008: <p align=center>RVLR Wickham Trolley and how it was built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES_</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Wickham Trolley kit, 2008. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES_</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</FONT COLOR = BROWN>

Wickham Trolley fresh from the RVLR Workshops - 25 March 2008 Wickham Trolley page 1 Wickham Trolley page 2 Wickham Trolley page 3 Wickham Trolley page 4 Wickham Trolley page 5 Wickham Trolley page 6 Wickham Trolley page 7 Wickham Trolley fresh from the RVLR Workshops - 25 March 2008

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Thu Mar 27 2008 03 - The monochrome collection http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1457786.html Scenes reproduced in sepia or black & white. Monday 1 January 1979: Scenes reproduced in sepia or black & white.

Viewed from RVLR Workshops WREKIN passes with a short passenger train making for Rea Falls - 10 August 2007 No. 2 ENID leaves Rea Falls and heads down the grade towards Greenwood Halt - 17 July 2007 Halfway Service Station as seen from the RVLR - 20 August 2007 Steam loco AFRICAN QUEEN with the Simplex and two skips of stone passing behind - 20070724 Tram no. 3 VICTORIA and 0-6-0t no. 13 MALVERN wait in Rea Falls station - 8 February 2008 No. 14 WREKIN outside RVLR Workshops - 8 February 2008 AFRICAN QUEEN - 24 July 2007 WREKIN prepares to leave Rea Falls with the new signal box in the background - 31 July 2007 Tram No. 3 VICTORIA running light - Nearing Greenwood Halt whilst travelling up the gradient to Rea Falls - 28 November 2006

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Mon Jan 1 1979 10 - Construction of No. 13 "MALVERN" from a Locolines’ “Jumbo” kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1345174.html <p align=center>Stages in the construction of 0-6-0T No.13 MALVERN, a battery powered loco constructed from card & wood. <p align=center>The model was adapted from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>' "Jumbo" card loco kit and the chassis is the 0-6-0 deluxe model from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>. Some of the detailing was supplied by <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> who produce a wide range of items for 16mm:1ft scale model narrow gauge railways. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> Saturday 11 August 2007: <p align=center>Stages in the construction of 0-6-0T No.13 MALVERN, a battery powered loco constructed from card & wood. <p align=center>The model was adapted from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>' "Jumbo" card loco kit and the chassis is the 0-6-0 deluxe model from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>. Some of the detailing was supplied by <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> who produce a wide range of items for 16mm:1ft scale model narrow gauge railways. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM>

The sound unit is a tight fit inside the over-sized backhead - 7 August 2007 After varnishing the Locolines' printed sheets the cab back and rear sides are cut in half The cab back and rear sides cut in half - This prepares these parts for making the coal bunker This side view shows how the coal bunker has been formed from the modified parts - 31 July 2007 To get some idea of size the half finished loco is seen here with other stock from the RVLR - 31 July 2007 Instead of producing separate tanks with the boiler in between the tanks are made up into one large box - In this picture the smokebox has been fitted - 2 August 2007 The detailing added to the removable tanks and boiler top - 7 August 2007 The tanks and boiler top seen here fitted to the loco - 7 August 2007 Inside the space created sits the batteries and smoke unit - Switches have been fitted inside to allow different settings for the smoke unit and motor - 7 August 2007 To start the loco a Forward - Stop - Reverse switch has been fitted inside the coal bunker - 7 August 2007 Bench testing the smoke unit which was taken from a large toy locomotive costing £4.99 - 7 August 2007 Outside testing of the smoke unit - There is a small centrifugal fan fitted under the footplate which forces air through the unit and out of the chimney - 7 August 2007 Cylinder components have been made up from wood and card - 18 September 2007 The completed cylinder is in place with the connecting rod fitted to the I P Engineering chassis' centre axle crank - 18 September 2007 Undergoing trials on the RVLR - Detailing has yet to be added but both the smoke and sound unit are working well - 20 September 2007 Interior of the cab back on the finished loco - 30 September 2007 The control switch is hidden amongst MALVERN's coal - 30 September 2007 Finished backhead and controls - 30 September 2007 Pictured from above the detail on the tops of the tanks and boiler can be seen - 30 September 2007 No. 13 MALVERN is now finished - 30 September 2007 MALVERN stands outside the RVLR workshops ready for duties - 30 September 2007

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Sat Aug 11 2007 08 - Development of No. 11 "AFRICAN QUEEN" - a small live steam industrial loco http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1333305.html <p align=center>RVLR freelance industrial steam loco No. 11 "AFRICAN QUEEN" <p align=center>African Queen started life as a MiniSteam which loosely represented an 1832 Baltimore & Ohio Railroad “Grasshopper” type loco. With its central vertical boiler and upright steam engine it immediately resembles a small De Winton quarry loco so a decision was mad to build a freelance engine styled loosely on the De Winton. The kit needed no machining but there was an enormous number of very small parts, the cylinders and gears looking like something from a steam driven pocket watch! The tiny steam engine is a two cylinder double acting oscillator which drives just one axle via a series of gears giving a reduction of 11:1. The loco was built according to the instructions first before making any changes. This allowed me to evaluate the performance which proved to be perfect for my needs. The boiler, engine and gear train were left unaltered, the changes being made were all cosmetic. There were no plans except for the ideas in my head. This allows me to change anything during construction. The loco eventually evolved into what you see. Because the boiler is very small steaming is limited to just under 15 minutes at the most before refilling with water and gas. Normally it will run at a steady gentle pace but if stopped and pressure is allowed to rise then it will take off with plenty of wheel spin. The very low gearing also allows it to crawl without any problems other than it takes forever to get anywhere. <P align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> No. 11 AFRICAN QUEEN <object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kBKh4IG7Vzk&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kBKh4IG7Vzk&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P> Wednesday 25 July 2007: <p align=center>RVLR freelance industrial steam loco No. 11 "AFRICAN QUEEN" <p align=center>African Queen started life as a MiniSteam which loosely represented an 1832 Baltimore & Ohio Railroad _Grasshopper_ type loco. With its central vertical boiler and upright steam engine it immediately resembles a small De Winton quarry loco so a decision was mad to build a freelance engine styled loosely on the De Winton. The kit needed no machining but there was an enormous number of very small parts, the cylinders and gears looking like something from a steam driven pocket watch! The tiny steam engine is a two cylinder double acting oscillator which drives just one axle via a series of gears giving a reduction of 11:1. The loco was built according to the instructions first before making any changes. This allowed me to evaluate the performance which proved to be perfect for my needs. The boiler, engine and gear train were left unaltered, the changes being made were all cosmetic. There were no plans except for the ideas in my head. This allows me to change anything during construction. The loco eventually evolved into what you see. Because the boiler is very small steaming is limited to just under 15 minutes at the most before refilling with water and gas. Normally it will run at a steady gentle pace but if stopped and pressure is allowed to rise then it will take off with plenty of wheel spin. The very low gearing also allows it to crawl without any problems other than it takes forever to get anywhere. <P align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> No. 11 AFRICAN QUEEN <object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kBKh4IG7Vzk&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kBKh4IG7Vzk&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P>

First steaming of the completed Ministeam Haulage trials which showed that the loco steamed very well, but with only one axle driven and the loco being very light it suffered from wheelslip which restricted the load - 29 January 2006 This picture of the The roof which can be easily lifted off has been completed - Detail has been added which includes cab controls and clutter on the footplate - 16 February 2006 Looking at the driven axle from underneath you can see the train of small brass gears which reduce the drive from the engine to the wheels by 11:1 The tiny two oscillating double acting cylinders From above can be seen the lubricator and direction/speed steam control valve which is similar to the Mamod/MSS loco's but considerably smaller The exhaust steam pipe runs down and over the side of the footplate Heat for the single flue tube vertical boiler is supplied by this miniature The refillable gas tank for the burner is removable to make for easy filling AFRICAN QUEEN outside RVLR Workshops - 24 July 2007

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Wed Jul 25 2007 07 - The evolution of No. 2 "ENID" - an 0-4-0 + 0-4-0 Garratt style loco http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1311763.html <P align=center>This collection shows how ENID evolved from a simple Mamod Steam Locomotive from the early 1980s to the battery powered Garratt of today. <P align=center>The Garratt used for the logo has evolved to the current version over 24 years. Unfortunately I didn't keep a photographic record of the original build and there were never any drawings since the design came directly from my head. It started life as a simple 0-4-0 tram loco made around a Mamod. This little loco was so successful that I thought that it had a lot more possibilities. A boiler was taken from a twin cylinder Mamod stationary engine and another chassis from a scrapped Mamod loco. To this was added a couple of one gallon oil cans which were used to construct the bodywork. The front unit was fitted with the Mamod loco's oscillating engine hidden inside the bodywork. This drove the front wheels via chain and sprockets , the engine being geared down by 2:1. The visible cylinders of both units were non working. The fire under the boiler was fed from a spirit tank located between the frames of the rear unit. The rest of the rear unit was taken up with a water tank which was used to fill the boiler by vacuum. The Garratt ran successfully like this for many years until the engine became worn out. <P align=center>I decided then to convert it to battery power by simply replacing the steam engine in the front unit with an electric motor. I also decided to add a little more detailing at the same time. After several motor and gear arrangements I have finally settled with the present set up. A sound unit has been added to the rear unit and smoke unit fitted inside the chimney. The power comes from 6 AA NiMh batteries fitted inside the boiler. <P align=center>Since the Garratt has been with the railway almost from the start I thought it would be an ideal subject for the RVLR's logo. <P align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> 0-4-0 + 0-4-0 Garratt “ENID” running light <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/B3ph4-b5pnA"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/B3ph4-b5pnA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="200" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P> Monday 25 June 2007: <P align=center>This collection shows how ENID evolved from a simple Mamod Steam Locomotive from the early 1980s to the battery powered Garratt of today. <P align=center>The Garratt used for the logo has evolved to the current version over 24 years. Unfortunately I didn't keep a photographic record of the original build and there were never any drawings since the design came directly from my head. It started life as a simple 0-4-0 tram loco made around a Mamod. This little loco was so successful that I thought that it had a lot more possibilities. A boiler was taken from a twin cylinder Mamod stationary engine and another chassis from a scrapped Mamod loco. To this was added a couple of one gallon oil cans which were used to construct the bodywork. The front unit was fitted with the Mamod loco's oscillating engine hidden inside the bodywork. This drove the front wheels via chain and sprockets , the engine being geared down by 2:1. The visible cylinders of both units were non working. The fire under the boiler was fed from a spirit tank located between the frames of the rear unit. The rest of the rear unit was taken up with a water tank which was used to fill the boiler by vacuum. The Garratt ran successfully like this for many years until the engine became worn out. <P align=center>I decided then to convert it to battery power by simply replacing the steam engine in the front unit with an electric motor. I also decided to add a little more detailing at the same time. After several motor and gear arrangements I have finally settled with the present set up. A sound unit has been added to the rear unit and smoke unit fitted inside the chimney. The power comes from 6 AA NiMh batteries fitted inside the boiler. <P align=center>Since the Garratt has been with the railway almost from the start I thought it would be an ideal subject for the RVLR's logo. <P align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> 0-4-0 + 0-4-0 Garratt _ENID_ running light <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/B3ph4-b5pnA"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/B3ph4-b5pnA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="200" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P>

Today's ENID crossing the Rea Valley viaduct - June 2007 Seen here is the original ENID built around a Mamod performing on the RVLR in 1982 - The bodywork is made from aluminium with an increase in the width and cab height over the Mamod loco - A displacement lubricator has been fitted but the fire is still the standard solid fuel tray - In this guise ENID was an excellent steamer and performed very well which led to the idea of trying to get a little more from a Mamod Its 1983 and the new ENID stands in Northfield station - Steel from old oil cans has been used this time for construction The boiler is from the largest of the Mamod stationary engines and is fitted with a simple regulator and displacement lubricator - The globe valve sitting on the footplate is the vacuum filler control for the boiler Looking underneath the footplate the red pipe to the left of the picture is the feed for the vacuum filler - The steam pipe can be seen in the firebox and is fed down through the footplate where it will be connected to the engine in the front unit via silicon tubing The boiler is fired with a three wick burner - Each burner is 15mm in diameter with the meths being fed from the rear unit via the red silicon tubing The powered front unit with the Mamod loco cylinders mounted above the frames - The red silicone tube is the steam feed and the clear tube takes the exhaust back to the chimney The Mamod cylinders are mounted on cut down Mamod loco frames and fit nicely into the front unit - The forward-stop-reverse lever has been extended so that it can be accessed at the top of the unit The meths tank is located between the frames of the rear unit with a filler that passes up into the coal bunker - The large tank is for water which is used by the vacuum filler to replenish the boiler The rear unit viewed from underneath shows the water and meths outlets - These are joined to the vacuum filler and fire by silicon tubing Another view of the rear unit which clearly shows the water tank and meths filler The well used steam powered ENID finished in heat proof green - In this form the Garratt ran for many years with a run time of about 17 minutes before refuelling the fire and refilling the boiler In 2006 the worn out steam engine was removed and ENID was converted to battery electric - New couplings were fitted with detailing being added before applying a fresh coat of paint The first trial motor to be fitted to ENID was a direct exchange for the original steam motor - A Seuthe No.5 smoke unit was fitted into the chimney and a sound system in the rear unit When converted to electric some simple detailing was added to the cab of ENID The new powerful electric motor has been fitted - The top of the Seuthe #05 smoke unit can be seen inside the chimney

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Mon Jun 25 2007 11 - Construction of No. 14 "WREKIN" - Built from a Locolines' “Hunslike” kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1309168.html <p align=center>Stages in the construction of 0-4-0ST No.14 WREKIN, a battery powered loco constructed from card & wood. <p align=center>The model was adapted from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>' "Hunslike" card loco kit and the chassis is the 0-4-0 deluxe model from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>. The small valve hand wheels were supplied by <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> who produce a wide range of items for 16mm:1ft scale model narrow gauge railways. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> Friday 22 June 2007: <p align=center>Stages in the construction of 0-4-0ST No.14 WREKIN, a battery powered loco constructed from card & wood. <p align=center>The model was adapted from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>' "Hunslike" card loco kit and the chassis is the 0-4-0 deluxe model from <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A>. The small valve hand wheels were supplied by <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> who produce a wide range of items for 16mm:1ft scale model narrow gauge railways. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM>

Finally - Handrails and couplings have been added with other detailing - Number and name and makers plates fitted and a final coat of varnish has been applied - 2 September 2007 Here is a diagram showing how the connecting rods have been fitted to the big-end The height of the frames were reduced to just above the wheels and the width narrowed down so as to just accommodate the wheel sets - 10 June 2007 The gearbox was fixed in place with 2.5mm bolts - The position of the electric motor has been altered to vertical - 10 June 2007 The footplate & cab have been reduced in width - the tank and length of the loco are as supplied - Construction was simple but effective - 10 June 2007 The firebox end of the boiler has been made using several layers of card - To add weight to the model white metal was heated just enough to allow it to pour into the firebox - Care has to be taken not to over heat the metal or it would set fire to the card! - 12 June 2007 The smoke box also has been filled with white metal - 19 June 2007 Simple detailing was added to the cab interior before fitting the cab back and roof - The brake was turned from wood and the forward reverse lever fabricated from card - 21 June 2007 Detailing was started with the fitting of the axle springs - Some of the smokebox detail has been added as well - 21 June 2007 The cab is now complete - Two non working doors have been added to the back and a cover for the water tank filler has been turned from a piece of wood I decided to use low cost materials for the cylinder assemblies - The cylinders are turned from wood and a 2mm rebate was run down opposite sides - This was used for fixing the slides which are made from 2mm square pine The brackets for the far ends of the slides have been cut from card and glued using superglue The crossheads are also made from card with cocktail sticks used for the piston rods The cylinders are fitted after being wrapped with printed paper - Next job to do is to fit the connecting rods The connecting rods have been made using recycled steel from a biscuit tin - Because the connecting rods are thin all that needs doing is to file down the big end bearing of the coupling rods just enough to allow the connecting rods big-ends to fit onto the crank pin and allow the e-clip enough room to snap back into place The rods and crossheads have all been painted black - Since the cranks are rather large for a Hunslet they too have been painted black - The coupling and connecting rods have been picked out with a red stripe and everything has been given a coat of matt varnish

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Fri Jun 22 2007 19 - RVLR Workshops - A selection from the stock built for other railways http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1227127.html <p align=center>The items seen here have been made either for general sale or are one off specials commissioned for other railways. The materials used in the construction of the superstructure for most items is various types of wood and printed card. When the card is cut and shaped it is chemically hardened especially at exposed corners. This makes the card very strong, durable and waterproof. After adding details such as handrails etc. they are painted and then given several coats of waterproof varnish to protect them from the weather. The chassis for coaches and wagons are made up from wood with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING‘s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> white metal Hudson style axle boxes fitted. These have brass bearings in which run I P Engineering’s 24mm steel wheel sets. The locos are powered by a variety of chassis also supplied by I P Engineering. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with I P Engineering apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM> Friday 9 March 2007: <p align=center>The items seen here have been made either for general sale or are one off specials commissioned for other railways. The materials used in the construction of the superstructure for most items is various types of wood and printed card. When the card is cut and shaped it is chemically hardened especially at exposed corners. This makes the card very strong, durable and waterproof. After adding details such as handrails etc. they are painted and then given several coats of waterproof varnish to protect them from the weather. The chassis for coaches and wagons are made up from wood with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING_s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> white metal Hudson style axle boxes fitted. These have brass bearings in which run I P Engineering_s 24mm steel wheel sets. The locos are powered by a variety of chassis also supplied by I P Engineering. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with I P Engineering apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM>

Catalogue number IC02 - 0-4-0 class 200 diesel off the production line - 13 February 2007 Catalogue number IC02 - 0-4-0 class 200 diesel with a fully enclosed cab and removable roof have the superstructure made from wood & printed card - the chassis is supplied by I P Engineering - 13 February 2007 Catalogue number GV01 - 4 tons green wood goods van - Printed card & wood construction with steel wheel sets running in Hudson type axle boxes supplied by I P Engineering - 29 November 2006 Catalogue number GV02 - 4 tons grey goods van - Dimensions are 185mm long x 95mm wide x 135mm high above the rail head and weighs 270 grams - 26 March 2007 Catalogue number GV02 - 4 tons grey goods van - Built from printed card and wood with steel wheel sets running in Hudson type axle boxes supplied by I P Engineering - 26 March 2007 Catalogue number GV02 - 4 tons grey goods van - To finish the van all Catalogue number CGV03 - 4 tons maroon goods van - Dimensions are 185mm long x 95mm wide x 135mm high above the rail head - Weight around 250 grams - 28 April 2007 Catalogue number CGV03 - 4 tons maroon goods van - Built from printed card and wood with steel wheel sets running in Hudson type axle boxes supplied by I P Engineering - 28 April 2007 Catalogue number CGV03 - 4 tons maroon goods van - Built from printed card and wood with steel wheel sets running in Hudson type axle boxes supplied by I P Engineering - 28 April 2007 Catalogue number PC01 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in green - Dimensions are 165mm long x 95mm wide x 140mm high above the rail head - Weight around 330g - The interior headroom equates to 6' 3 Catalogue number PC01 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in green - Constructed of printed card and wood - Steel wheel sets and axle boxes with brass bearings supplied by I P Engineering - The roof lifts off for access - 5 April 2007 Catalogue number PC02 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in brown & cream - Dimensions are 165mm long x 95mm wide x 140mm high above the rail head - The interior headroom equates to 6' 3 Catalogue number PC02 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in brown & cream - Constructed of printed card and wood - Steel wheel sets and axle boxes with brass bearings supplied by I P Engineering - 8 May 2007 Catalogue number PC02 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in brown & cream - Constructed of printed card and wood - Steel wheel sets and axle boxes with brass bearings supplied by I P Engineering - 8 May 2007 Catalogue number PC02 - 2nd class 4 wheeled coach in brown & cream - The roof lifts off for access - 8 May 2007 Catalogue number IC01 - 0-4-0 class 100 diesel built for the Seibiant Hill Railway - Constructed from printed card and wood - 9 March 2007 Catalogue number IC01 - 0-4-0 class 100 diesel built for the Seibiant Hill Railway - The chassis with insulated wheels was supplied by I P Engineering - 9 March 2007 Catalogue number IC01 - 0-4-0 class 100 diesel built for the Seibiant Hill Railway - After having several coats of matt polyurethane varnish it was finished with a coat of gloss - 9 March 2007

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Fri Mar 9 2007 16 - Construction of 4 Plank Wagons from a Locolines' card kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1154944.html <p align=center>RVLR 4 Plank wagons. These have been built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES‘</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Card Wagon Kits which have been modified to suit the needs of the RVLR. The main material used in their construction is card with the chassis made up from wood with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING‘s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> white metal Hudson style axle boxes fitted. These have brass bearings in which run I P Engineering’s 24mm steel wheel sets. Brake details are from the <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> range of 16mm:ft products. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM> Thursday 7 December 2006: <p align=center>RVLR 4 Plank wagons. These have been built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES_</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Card Wagon Kits which have been modified to suit the needs of the RVLR. The main material used in their construction is card with the chassis made up from wood with <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING_s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> white metal Hudson style axle boxes fitted. These have brass bearings in which run I P Engineering_s 24mm steel wheel sets. Brake details are from the <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> range of 16mm:ft products. <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BROWN>(All links correct at 10 May 2008.)</EM>

All the sheets of printed card have been given three good coats of varnish before starting construction - The Wagon sides as supplied by Locolines have had extra detailing added to them - The one has had a small central door added and the other has had a full length door - Both of the non working doors are The ends have been left almost the same as supplied - they have been fitted the other way up and the lower strip of wood has been removed - 7 December 2006 Here can be seen the side with the full length drop side - hinge and catch details have been fabricated from card - 7 December 2006 View showing side and end - pins have been fitted to represent the bolts - 7 December 2006 View from underneath shows the A closer look at the A final coat of matt black paint was added to cover the pin heads followed by a good coat of matt polyurethane varnish - the bottom was not varnished at this stage - 7 December 2006 The frames were cut to the length of the wagon less twice the thickness of the buffer beams and another 4mm - this allows the buffer beams to be inset by 2mm - the axle boxes were then glued in place using an all purpose adhesive - 8 December 2006 When dry the frames were drilled through the axle box's fixing holes with 3mm diameter drill - Then two 3mm bolts were passed through each axle box and were secured with a washer and nut - 13 December 2006 One of the frames was glued in place - when dry the wheel sets were fitted using a washer to space them from the axle boxes - then the other frame was glued in place - an extra piece was added to each end to help support the buffer beams which have now been added - 13 December 2006 The frame and axle boxes were given a coat of matt black paint - When all the paintwork was dry all of the wagon was given a generous coat of hard wearing matt finish varnish - 29 April 2008 Extra detail has been added with the imitation bolt heads holding the planks together - 4 May 2008 Finally brake detail has been added using parts from CAMBRIAN MODELS and black styrene sheet - 6 May 2008 The finished 4 plank dropside wagon on the RVLR - 6 May 2008

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Thu Dec 7 2006 13 - Construction of Tram No. 3 - “VICTORIA” - from a Locolines' card tram kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1111133.html <p align=center>RVLR Diesel powered tram locomotive No. 3 "VICTORIA" which has been built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES‘</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Victoria tram kit. The kit is made up from several sheets of very rigid card that have the parts printed on them. The tram for the RVLR is considerably shorter than the Locolines’ model, with the alterations for the RVLR being achieved easily from this very adaptable kit. The chassis for the tram is <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING‘s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> budget model with both axles being linked by sprocket and chain. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines or I P Engineering apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> Sunday 15 October 2006: <p align=center>RVLR Diesel powered tram locomotive No. 3 "VICTORIA" which has been built from the <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES_</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> Victoria tram kit. The kit is made up from several sheets of very rigid card that have the parts printed on them. The tram for the RVLR is considerably shorter than the Locolines_ model, with the alterations for the RVLR being achieved easily from this very adaptable kit. The chassis for the tram is <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING_s</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> budget model with both axles being linked by sprocket and chain. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines or I P Engineering apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM>

Above is the Locolines' side panel for the steam tram & below is the modified side for RVLR Tam No. 3 The completed sides with glazing added - The side is cut out and then thin card has been glued to the back leaving space for the glazing - The glazing is added and then another layer of card is laid on top - 29 October 2006 The ends are made up in the same way as the sides with the glazing sandwiched between the card - 29 October 2006 Two strips of wood were then glued to each side - One on the top and one to the bottom - These were cut to the length of the side less twice the thickness of an end panel - The two pieces of card protruding from the bottom of each side are for the fitting of the side skirts - 29 October 2006 The four main body panels have now been assembled and glued together - The two balsa strips at the top have been planed to the curve of the roof and a start has been made on the strips for the panelling - The green paint was mixed from semi gloss water based acrylics - 30 October 2006 Here all the strips of card have been added using Uhu general purpose contact adhesive- the edges of the strips were painted before fixing in place and then they were all given a final coat of paint followed by another coat of varnish - The motor can be seen through the door - 2 November 2006 The interior is now complete - No steam engine in here ! - This tram is powered by diesel - The engine cover (which covers the I P Engineering budget chassis' motor) with access doors can be seen in the centre with the air intake off towards the top of picture - The control panels at each end include an illuminated dial - 8 November 2006 The chassis is now in place and most of the wiring is connected - power is from 2 AA batteries - There is a slide switch on each side - one for direction and the other for on/off - Another switch has been fitted underneath so that the motor can be disconnected allowing for the directional lights to be on during photo sessions without the tram moving - 10 November 2006 The bodywork is nearing completion with the exhaust stack fitted to the one end - Detailing to the side skirts and a roof plus couplings along with lights are still to be added - 14 November 2006 The driver is a modified The gaps have been filled with air drying modelling clay - Once dry and after a few adjustments using a fine file the driver is given several coats of primer - There are still a few holes but these will be filled when painted with acrylic colours - 14 November 2006 Finished with acrylic paints - The driver is now ready to take the controls of Tram No. 3 - 15 November 2006 Tram No. 3 - VICTORIA - is now complete - The body made entirely of card using the Locolines 'VICTORIA' tram loco kit and mounted onto an I P Engineering budget chassis - Working directional headlights have been added - 28 November 2006 An overhead view of VICTORIA with the heat of the exhaust causing the inside of the pipe to glow red! - (red diode fitted inside the silencer) - 28 November 2006 A view of VICTORIA showing the other end which does not have an exhaust pipe - 28 November 2006

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Sun Oct 15 2006 02 - RVLR - Scenes from the present railway - Rea Valley http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1096580.html <p align=center>With a move to a new home the original RVLR (Rea Valley Light Railway) garden model narrow gauge railway was born again starting high up the Rea valley where the river cascades down Rea Falls at the side of which the old Rea Mill stands. Rea Falls station sits above the falls with the RVLR workshops close by. The varied stock is made up of what might have been found on the RVLR and most have been built by myself, some being modified kits and many being my own creations. The idea is to capture the magic of a small narrow gauge railway with stock that is reliable and rugged enough to operate outdoors all year round. <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <p> <p align=center>1 -> Beyer Garrett "ENID" &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 -> Cab Ride &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 -> 0-4-0T "BREDON" &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4 -> Co Co diesel "PUMA"<p align=center>1 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ULeE7HWLeeY"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ULeE7HWLeeY" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mZR8OWRXiLA"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mZR8OWRXiLA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c9MPjR9gcm0"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c9MPjR9gcm0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3UPIYBzpOYk"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3UPIYBzpOYk" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="117"></embed></object> <p> <p> Friday 29 September 2006: <p align=center>With a move to a new home the original RVLR (Rea Valley Light Railway) garden model narrow gauge railway was born again starting high up the Rea valley where the river cascades down Rea Falls at the side of which the old Rea Mill stands. Rea Falls station sits above the falls with the RVLR workshops close by. The varied stock is made up of what might have been found on the RVLR and most have been built by myself, some being modified kits and many being my own creations. The idea is to capture the magic of a small narrow gauge railway with stock that is reliable and rugged enough to operate outdoors all year round. <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <p> <p align=center>1 -> Beyer Garrett "ENID" &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 -> Cab Ride &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 -> 0-4-0T "BREDON" &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4 -> Co Co diesel "PUMA"<p align=center>1 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ULeE7HWLeeY"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ULeE7HWLeeY" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mZR8OWRXiLA"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mZR8OWRXiLA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c9MPjR9gcm0"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c9MPjR9gcm0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4 -> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3UPIYBzpOYk"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3UPIYBzpOYk" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="117"></embed></object> <p> <p>

Maintenance Loco heads towards Rea Falls - 19 January 2006 A35 van crosses the railway bridge at Rea Falls in the winter snow - 24 February 2006 Maintenance Loco passing under the road bridge at Rea Falls - 19 January 2006 Maintenance Loco approaches Rea Falls - 19 January 2006 Co Co diesel PUMA hauls a train of two bogie coaches out of the workshops - 22 August 2006 PUMA in the short cutting before Rea Falls Station Road bridge - 22 August 2006 PUMA and passenger train cross Rea Falls viaduct - 22 August 2006 PUMA and train stand in Rea Falls station - 22 August 2006 PUMA passes under Rea Falls Station Road bridge - 22 August 2006 0-4-0T ANNA hauls a short train of 4 wheeled veranda coaches around the back of RVLR Workshops to Rea Falls - 2 June 2006 0-4-0T ANNA with two 4 wheeled veranda coaches emerges from the side of RVLR Workshops - 2 June 2006 Railtruck RT1 just completed and on its first outing - The picture shows the cab details with the driver's seat facing sideways - 29 March 2006 Railtruck RT1 approaching Rea Falls station - 29 March 2006 Railtruck RT1 behind the workshops returning to Rea Falls - 29 March 2006 Railtruck RT1 having just crossed Rea Falls viaduct - The headlights lit - 29 March 2006 Railtruck RT1 passing behind the RVLR workshops - 29 March 2006 Railtruck RT1 on its return to Rea Falls - 29 March 2006 Rea Falls Station - Tea break - 20 April 2006 The water mill standing at the side of the Rea waterfalls - 2 June 2006 RVLR workshops diesel station - 25 September 2006 The pump end of the diesel station - 25 September 2006 Beyer Garratt ENID after conversion to battery electric with smoke & sound units - June 2005 ENID in the snow at Rea Falls - February 2006 D10 - LYNX - Seen here in Rea Falls station with tram No. 3 VICTORIA in the background - 14 January 2007 Water tender for No 8 - PRINCE - is craned onto the track at Rea Falls - 19 June 2006 The Lumar Contractors high lift mobile crane prepares to lift the water tender - 19 June 2006 The track maintenance loco moves up to make way for the water tender - 19 June 2006 The water tender is now on the rails - 19 June 2006 Looking down lets you see the full size of the crane's jib - 19 June 2006 Tram No. 2 ELIZABETH completed and hauling a train on the RVLR - 23 May 2007 A few adjustments being made to No. 12 BREDON - 6 March 2007 LYNX arrives at Rea Falls with a short goods train - 22 May 2008 Greenwood Halt at dusk - 22 August 2007 Greenwood Halt at night - 12 October 2007 Old barn and car with the site of the coming Halfway Service Station office in front - 10 August 2007 A closer look at the old petrol pump behind the barn of Half Way Service Station - The office is still to be built - 10 August 2007 Halfway Service Station now completed - 20 August 2007 Repairs take place at Halfway Service Station - 30 September 2007 Working into the night at Halfway Service Station - 12 October 2007 Approaching Halfway Corner - 12 October 2007 0-4-0T BREDON leaves Rea Falls station with two 4 wheeled veranda coaches - 13 October 2006 No. 12 BREDON after passing under Rea Falls road bridge - 13 October 2006 BREDON and passenger train heads towards Rea Falls viaduct - 13 October 2006 Tram loco VICTORIA with a train of 4 wheeled stock stands in Rea Falls station - No. 13 MALVERN waits with a passenger train in the other platform - 8 February 2008 No. 14 WREKIN prepares to fill up with coal & water at RVLR Workshops - 8 February 2008 Beyer Garratt ENID crosses the Rea Valley Viaduct - 17 June 2007 The new signal box at Rea Falls - The resin cast kit was supplied by Another view of the new Rea Falls signal box - Smoke can be seen coming from the the working stove - 3 August 2007 A night time view of Rea Falls signal box - 12 October 2007 Rea Falls station with an MR train standing in the platform as the diesel

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Fri Sep 29 2006 09 - Construction of No. 12 "BREDON" - an 0-4-0T built from a Locolines' “Tiny” card kit http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1087210.html <p align=center>RVLR 0-4-0T steam loco No. 12 - "BREDON" - This loco was built from a "TINY" STEAM LOCO KIT - a card kit produced by <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> - and has been fitted with a "BUDGET CHASSIS" made by <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR=BLUE></A>. Lamps came from the <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> range. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>1 -> 0-4-0T “BREDON” running light<p align=center> 1-> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hp8rKON17iU"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hp8rKON17iU" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P> Monday 18 September 2006: <p align=center>RVLR 0-4-0T steam loco No. 12 - "BREDON" - This loco was built from a "TINY" STEAM LOCO KIT - a card kit produced by <A href="http://www.locolines.net/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>LOCOLINES</STRONG></FONT COLOR = BLUE></A> - and has been fitted with a "BUDGET CHASSIS" made by <A href="http://www.ipengineering.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT COLOR = BLUE>I P ENGINEERING</STRONG></FONT COLOR=BLUE></A>. Lamps came from the <A href="http://www.cambrianmodels.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>CAMBRIAN MODELS</STRONG></FONT></A> range. (<I>Links correct at 10 May 2008.</I>) <p align=center><FONT COLOR=BLACK><EM>Please note that I have no connection with Locolines, I P Engineering or Cambrian Models apart from being a very satisfied customer.</EM> <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>1 -> 0-4-0T _BREDON_ running light<p align=center> 1-> <object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hp8rKON17iU"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hp8rKON17iU" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P>

Contents of the kit supplied by Locolines for their TINY loco kit - 15 September 2006 Parts to make up one of the water tanks - 18 September 2006 Right hand tank made up and fitted to the front of the cab - 18 September 2006 I decided to use balsa wood to add strength to the structure - 18 September 2006 Both tanks fitted and black paint added to inside and cut edges - 18 September 2006 I P Engineering Budget Chassis added with sprockets & ladder-chain connecting both axles - 18 September 2006 Tanks & cab front fitted to footplate with electric motor protruding into the cab - 18 September 2006 Boiler and smoke box - 19 September 2006 View of boiler showing smokebox door detail - 19 September 2006 Boiler and smokebox fitted to the footplate - 19 September 2006 Firebox end of the boiler - 25 September 2006 Firebox end of the boiler in place on the footplate - 25 September 2006 Firebox with glowing fire inside - 25 September 2006 The interior of the finished cab - 28 September 2006 All major work above the footplate completed - 1 October 2006 A second look at the completed bodywork - 1 October 2006 TINY has now been fitted with a pair of cylinders - 6 October 2006 The cylinders are made from wood with card wrapped around them and a 1/8 Locolines TINY is now completed with connecting & coupling rods fitted along with a set of couplings - 11 October 2006 Overhead view showing tank fillers - 11 October 2006 This low rear quarter view show some of the cab detail - The silver lever of the On/Off switch can be seen under the footplate just in front of the cab step - The Forward/Reverse switch is on the opposite side - 11 October 2006 A head on view of the completed loco - The cylinders can be seen just set back from the front buffer beam - 11 October 2006 The final transition to RVLR steam loco number 12 BREDON - 13 October 2006

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Mon Sep 18 2006 12 - Construction of Tram No. 2 - “ELIZABETH” - plywood construction http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c1050801.html <p align=center>0-4-0 Steam Tram No. 2 - Fitted with smoke unit and directional headlamps from a £4.99 toy - Fire glow effect has been added to the firebox. <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> Tram No. 2 “ELIZABETH” undergoing trials<p align=center> 1-><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YJUXilX3Fcs"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YJUXilX3Fcs" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P> Sunday 13 August 2006: <p align=center>0-4-0 Steam Tram No. 2 - Fitted with smoke unit and directional headlamps from a _4.99 toy - Fire glow effect has been added to the firebox. <p align=center><FONT color=GREEN>To activate the video clips, click on the thumbnail of your choice and then on the start arrow. If, instead of the start arrow, you click again on the picture you will open another window where you can view a larger format of the movie. <P> <p align=center>1 -> Tram No. 2 _ELIZABETH_ undergoing trials<p align=center> 1-><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YJUXilX3Fcs"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YJUXilX3Fcs" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="140" height="120"></embed></object> <P> <P>

Completed chassis with air pump fitted for smoke effect - 29 January 2006 Overhead view of the chassis - 29 January 2006 ST2 running tests with the boiler and smoke unit fitted - 24 February 2006 The fire effect and smoke unit can be seen working - 24 February 2006 A close up of the smoke unit and oscillating cylinder air pump - 24 February 2006 The body for ST2 is made from plywood - 13 August 2006 An end view of the body - The windows at each end will eventually be glazed - 13 August 2006 Haulage trials - 20 August 2006 Haulage trials - 20 August 2006 Haulage trials - 20 August 2006 This side view shows most of the wood detailing in place - Metal handrails and door handle have yet to be fitted - 13 August 2006 The bodywork has been painted and handrails have been fitted along with headlamps - 19 September 2006 Detail has been added to the interior - The contacts at the edge of the footplate carry power to the directional headlights - 23 May 2007 A one way valve and control valve have been added to improve the exhaust effect - 23 May 2007 The completed tram standing outside RVLR Workshops - 25 May 2007

Published in Rea Valley Light Railway

]]> Sun Aug 13 2006 06 - Construction of the RVLR http://rvlr.photos.gb.com/c977761.html <P ALIGN=CENTER>Construction methods for both the original railway in Northfield which was laid using Mamod cast metal track and the present day Rea Falls with Peco SM32 being the choice for the new track. <P ALIGN=CENTER>The original Mamod track was in place for around 12 years when it was lifted ready for the move to a new home. The wooden track bed was found to be in excellent condition but the Mamod track had become brittle in parts, with some of it falling to pieces when lifted. It is hoped that the new Peco track used for Rea Falls will be in place for many years before it needs any major repair work. Many of the buildings, yard and station accessories plus figures are resin castings supplied by <A href="http://www.modeltown.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>MODEL TOWN</STRONG></FONT></A>. Thursday 1 June 2006: <P ALIGN=CENTER>Construction methods for both the original railway in Northfield which was laid using Mamod cast metal track and the present day Rea Falls with Peco SM32 being the choice for the new track. <P ALIGN=CENTER>The original Mamod track was in place for around 12 years when it was lifted ready for the move to a new home. The wooden track bed was found to be in excellent condition but the Mamod track had become brittle in parts, with some of it falling to pieces when lifted. It is hoped that the new Peco track used for Rea Falls will be in place for many years before it needs any major repair work. Many of the buildings, yard and station accessories plus figures are resin castings supplied by <A href="http://www.modeltown.co.uk/"><STRONG><FONT color=blue>MODEL TOWN</STRONG></FONT></A>.

Rea Falls Stage 1 - Most of the fill is now in place with the Rea Falls in water and the viaduct being built around the wooden supports and up to the track bed - 16 March 2004 Rea Falls Stage 1 - Rea Falls road bridge is in place with the road leading to Rea Falls station - Planting has been started in the finished areas. 17 May 2004 Track plan of the completed original RVLR - Construction of Northfield station - The Mamod track is laid on 2 Walls were then built up to the track level and this was then filled with soil and gravel to assist drainage This section has been filled - the visible timber structure at the back of the picture is a wooden viaduct passing over the back of a small pond The same scene as the previous picture but 2 years later - The signal has been added and the siding which can be seen at the back leading to the right The position of the point levers on the Mamod track was too close to the rails for the larger RVLR rolling stock - Here the original point lever has been used but the linkage has been extended by 40mm On all of the other points the lever was made up from scrap aluminium - This was connected to the point via rods and a crank Here can be seen the completed viaduct with a mixed train entering Northfield station An early picture of the newly finished Northfield Station Track plan of the second RVLR - Rea Falls Stage 1 - The trackbed is in place for Rea Falls - The choice of construction is the same as Northfield with a timber track bed on timber supports. 1 August 2001. Rea Falls Stage 1 - This will become Rea Falls station with a branch off into the workshop and another leading around the back of the workshop - 1 August 2001. Rea Falls Stage 1 - The small railcar has just crossed the viaduct and enters Rea Falls station - In the distance can be seen Rea Falls road bridge - The water mill building on Rea Falls can also be seen - 29 April 2006 Rea Falls Stage 1 - Looking over Rea Falls to the viaduct. Still a lot to do although the falls and viaduct are almost finished - 2 June 2006 Rea Falls Stage 1 - A closer view of the viaduct - 2 June 2006 Rea Falls Stage 1 - Trackwork is by Peco with the points being operated by modified Peco point motors - 2 June 2006