Step by step

 As this post is being written, omscaler is taking the painstaking steps to make more realistic steps. Pain is indeed almost in the mix. The rear steps are different from the front steps being much more simple in design. These are already complete. The front tender steps were more elaborate often having scalloped sides. Hence the “painstaking” part. However, we do have a working plan and are beginning to make progress. Also note that the applied front steps will be a compromise. This is to ensure that omscaler does not endure too much mental “painstaking”. But, as usual, we will get ‘er done. Stepping along, omscaler

 

Grinding along

Or we could say, “Gluing along.” Yep. Omscaler is indeed moving along slowly. This last week saw deep Spring cleaning with little OSR work being done except on Monday and Saturday. With the cleaning chores mostly done, tender construction should be moving along. Some surprise details will appear with the pictures of the completed locomotives. Until next post, omscaler

 

Back in town

Good to be back from a Saturday trip. Saturday was the 36^th Annual Coosa Valley Model Railroad Association Train Show. The show was very good but seemed lightly attended. Of course, the sky was clear blue with sunshine and there was an art show at Noccalula Falls Park. Probably affected the turnout. Tender construction has slowed due to the need for precision accuracy. Omscaler will take a shot at by week’s end completion. I know readers are thinking, “That’s what you said last week.” Omscaler has learned from experience that a good job takes time. I am sure the results will be worth it. Precisely moving forward, omscaler

Laudable progress

Last post omscaler was pondering the level of progress that would be made over the course of the present project. Currently, tender wheels are installed as well as all necessary running gear associated with the tenders. Tender body side sheets are next on order. The basic stock piece for one tender is ready to be formed and cut. The hope is that all three tenders will be done by week’s end. It is fortunate that all three are the same design. The so-called “Orient” type. Omscaler does not know why this name is used. Readers feel free to chime in here. Hope all had a fine Easter. Until next week, omscaler

 

Loaded down.

This week seems a little heavier than usual. Omscaler is beginning the three-locomotive project. On the upside, numerous parts are ready to install. On the other side, the next steps will be more complex. The tenders need twenty-four wheels. The Consolidations need twenty wheels. The American needs only eight. All of these are ready to install. Tender decks are done. Center beams are done. Fortunately, omscaler has working plans to help guide the process. Less certain is the completion date. Omscaler has a reputation for running behind. Maybe I should give myself a bonus if completed early. We shall see. omscaler

 

Finished in good order

The outside braced wood box car is finished. #162239, SL-SF, Frisco now sits protruding into Spruce Street. Let’s take a more in-depth tour of this boxcar. Stats: Sixty-two total parts (not countning external Z bar). About fourteen are hidden angle braces. Order boards on each door. Brake wheel and platform on the B end. The Frisco logo is on each side. Car does sit a little high. The side ladders are laser cut as are the sides. Simple roof walk and laterals. Glue streaks do show up on a magnified view. Seems like some research and experimenting are called for. Also, due to size constraints, little room on the end panels for larger markings. Actually, barely able to read. But...the boss said, “Run it!” Further note. Spruce and other streets are even to this day, paving brick made locally years ago. In this view is the retired Southern boxcar, #23376. The running gear in part was used on the new boxcar. The building is the South end of Murphysboro depot. On to the next project(s), omscaler

 

Did Charlie say “Aaauugh!”?

Readers may remember the late Charles Schultz character Charlie Brown. When the football was moved right as he kicked or some other calamity occurred, He would yell Aaauugh! Just prior to writing this post, omscaler was gluing a project together. As a piece was being test fitted, another part came away at the glue joint. Aaauugh! Omscaler was compelled to do a repair. Sometimes it happens. Another cartoon character says, “Just scream”. Whatever works. Now back to the building. Omscaler hopes that the outside braced boxcar will be finished very soon. More to come. Chilling and working, omscaler