Bodywork for Martin Evans Firefly in 5" Gauge

A friend is building a very nice Firefly in 5" Gauge - it's pretty much built now (including the boiler) but the last remaining big task is the bodywork/sheet metal work. Does anyone know of a source of pre-cut metalwork by any chance please - Model Engineer's Laser don't list anything unfortunately. Unfortunately my friend knows nothing about transferring parts onto CAD (nor do I) so going down that route isn't easy either.

Many thanks,

Brian

Contact MEL and get a quote for drawing into CAD file and cutting. You would supply the drawings. This would not be cheap probably. Or just get on with cutting them out the old fashioned way. There is no good way to cut sheet metal in my experience. I’ve cut 1/16th steel successfully with a jigsaw with appropriate blade. Same with thick brass and copper sheet. Band saw for narrow cuts that will go past the frame, and the hacksaw and sheet saw can be useful. Tin snips for thin stuff. Your club might have a guillotine but I’ve not used one. Laser cutting is certainly very attractive.

Brian,

I have just spoken to Ed at MEL and they are actually in the process of doing the drawings for the Firefly tanks and cab in 3.5" gauge. They will follow the usual format of slots and tabs for quick and accurate construction. If your friend would like to contact Ed he will be very happy to help with your friend's 5" gauge version.

I hope this is of help,

Reg

Many thanks for the replies - the news that MEL are already working on a 3.5" Firefly sounds very promising; I'll call my friend later and give him the good news

Many thanks for the help.

Brian