The basic loco frames for the J52 are now ready to be profiled before assembly. I decided to make the rear buffer beam from 6 thou nickel sandwiching a wooden beam, an equivalent construction to that on the prototype. This concludes the basic kit of parts, excluding smaller items such as steps and splashers. Once the frames and spacers have been assembled , and the temporary top hat bearings have been soldered in, the coupling rods can be made to fit the jig axles.
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| A kit of parts for the J52 |
While making frames for the J52, I also made a set for a loco
project dormant for nearly ten years, and ultimately destined for the St Donats
1963 diorama.
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| The GWR Hall project re-started |
Both the J52 and the Hall will have twin-beam compensation
on the middle and trailing drivers, with a rocking axle leading. The Hall
frames also need profiling before assembly.
