have just bought a model train and no nothing about them

Hi all, I have just acquired an old model steam train. I have paid quite a bit of money for it but not sure about what to do now and just looking for some expert advice. But I can say with confidence whoever made it knew what they were doing. The level of detail is mind blowing but it has been lying a while.Will post photos shortly.

Here is a photo

Greetings Ben,

now that you have purchased your locomotive, I suggest that you look to see what model engineering clubs are near you, visit them, and join the one that suits you best.

That way you will have a knowledge pool of the subject available to you, and stacks of advice, you just have to pick the best. Your new clubs boiler inspector will also guide you through the boiler regulations, and finally, you will have a track to run your pride & joy on.

regards

BB

Hello Ben - Congratulations on your smashing looking purchase. I am not really into loco's so I cannot tell which full size original your model is based on. Could the original be French or German? Just curious!

Rik

South African Rik. The little red badge at the back says "south african railways 3343". I was told the guy who built the original train built this model and two others at different scales which would make it a fair age I think. This is the middle size model according to the guy I bought it from.

Ben,

Nice buy.

Its a Class 19D with two types of tender.

What gauge is it, and did it come with a tender?

In 3.1/2" it would be equivalent to a British loco in 5" gauge.

Looks as if it's been standing unused for a while, so will need careful inspection and cleaning.

Being your first, DO take 'photos for Africa' of every part. (Lots and lots)

I concur with BB about joining a local club.

You don't say which part of the world you are.

I'm in South Norfolk and you are welcome any time.

The first time you crack the regulator and it pulls you, it will be an experience never forgotten.

Geoff - Now recovering from 'throne duty' yesterday

Oops.

Just read the Thread Description.

Note to self - Wake up!

Geoff - Blushing.

Hi, OuBallie. Im up in aberdeenshire. There is the old royal deeside railway a couple of miles from me and the guys there pointed me to a guy who builds model trains from scratch. He was blown away by it but is not in the best of health so couldn't take the project on but he said the level of detail is unbelievable. its 3 1/2" gauge but takes two people to lift it.

some more photos of detail

photo of tender OuBallie. Wasn't sure what a tender was. it has a full working brake on it too.

Ben,

It might be worthwhile getting a copy of Tim Cole's book . This is an overview of construction rather than how to build a particular model. It will give you a good insight into how a model locomotive is constructed. There is also a good chapter on running watering, firing and running the locomotive.

HTH

Rod

hi Ben, you lucky man the 19d is one off my dream trains, (seen them in SA) if you go to the E.S.M.E. club wedsite you will see sa trains, it would be worth a ride down to them, there is also a full size 16F on display in Glasgow take lots of photos,

Dek

Ben you lucky chap. That's just the type of thing I like, grubby but sound and with care and patience will clean up great.

bri

as far as getting it running goes I think I will leave that up to someone who knows what they are doing. What do you recommend I clean it up with? I agree with you Bri. Think it looks good the way it is and don't want to get it looking like new. The imperfections gives it character and only seems that one lever is seized. All the valves and the rest of the levers seem to be operating fine. but feeling very happy with the buy and lucky to find something like this.

Dek. do you have a link for the e.s.m.e website? couldn't find it on google.

hi ben go through model engineering clubs on google or www.edinburgh-sme.org.uk/

dek

Hi Ben. I cleaned mine up with scotsbrite soaked in oil where there was rust. The painted surfaces with a good quality detergent and elbow grease 

Bri

Edited By Boiler Bri on 31/08/2014 07:26:12