Trying to build a Sulzer
Whilst the previous post discussed adding variety to trains - this will tackle the locomotive problem. No denying that there are many locos available in the scale now but they aren't often coherent or prototypically matched.
I started with the Easterner Set as I wanted my layout to be in the transition era where British Rail withdrew steam and transitioned to diesels. This offers the most variety in a prototypical setting without resorting to a make believe heritage railway where anything runs.
I also bought the green Class 08 to act as a pilot loco. But unfortunately beyond that there wasn't much else. I originally preordered the Class 37 and J50 as well as the Heljan Deltic and Class 122 bubblecar but they're still not available (or out of stock for the recent releases).
As my layout was supposed to be a terminus based in the Eastern region, I set about creating something suitable.
My inspiration was this post on the Hornby forum and accompanying video - though a 25 wasn't quite right for me, being a mainly LMR loco. So off I went to Lincoln Locos and ordered a Class 24 3D printed body instead, along with a cheap GWR Class 43 HST set to carve up.
What ensued was an even more trying test of my patience, particularly when it came to grinding the metal chassis!
In all it probably took 3 months to complete, but that was working on and off when I could muster the courage to tackle the next job. Painting was done carefully with simple brushed on Railmatch acrylics - I'm sure airbrushing would result in a better job! - with transfers supplied by Railtec. Window glazing was GlueNGlaze which works a treat once you get a hang of it
Couplers were also an issue - I resorted to cutting the fronts of the bodies and then glueing the TT coupler between the two halves, to ensure the right height for coupling with other rolling stock. Technically the bogies are slightly too far forward but I didn't want to alter the drive train too much. For shuttling passenger trains in and out of Minories, it'll do and was a useful exercise to try new techniques and learn new skills.
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