RedRich

That's the way to go Des. I do understand that some folk are prepared to use rtr UK OO or European HO and if that is their choice then fair play to them. I can't help thinking though that the vast majority would prefer a prototypical model than a kit bashed, converted, non Irish rtr model. We have all seen the shots of the 42' flats, Ammonia wagon, and barrier wagon tank and cradles which we have all drooled over. If Des is to produce the 62'9" why not go with the prototypical model. Rich,

The buffers on the SF locos are completely wrong and with the cab shape they look nothing like the prototype. Silver Fox do produce some very passable BR models so they can do better. Rich,

Have ya been hit by a rucksack yet Richie. Rich,

They look very nice Des, especially at the back of the buffer head. The castings will look sweet. Rich,

Fantastic work Phil, truly inspiring. Rich,

Top marks Eoin, all the hard work is showing fruition, again well done. Rich,

Looking good George. It does as you say look a very well thought out kit. Rich,

Superb pics Seamus it looks like you picked the right day, very much appreciated. Rich,

Excellent information, I'd always wondered why there were no axle box covers on ours. Thanks for clearing that up. Rich,

I agree very uncomfortable. Rich,

Richie stunning work as usual. The imagination and skill to turn an idea into a model is fantastic. It's a credit to you. Rich,

Soldering whitemetal to brass can be a trial in itself and it makes the work you have done really deserving of the plaudits. Top work George. Rich,

Excellent George. Did you solder the whitemetal parts to the brass. Rich,

They are fantastic Ivan. Even though a GAD can be useful the finished rolling stock isn't always the same. These are the real deal. Rich,

Fran you know that isn't going to happen. Rich,

The brass bogie sub frames look very interesting Des and will give an appearance of nothing behind the 3 holes in the bogies. The MIR ones always looked wrong with the sides attached to the main frame through the central bogie side hole. Rich,

Spot on Des regarding the bogie type. IE's seem to have had axle box covers removed on our Y33's. I wonder was this done by CIE or were they produced that way by Sambre Et Meuse. You made the right choice in producing your own bogies Des as the Bachmann ones just don't look right even if they are a handy alternative. Rich,

George I'd say that the kit is one of those that when you start to build it you don't want to stop. It really is a credit to John. Kit builders have an approach to building that is unique to each individual, and John seems to have designed it to appeal to everyone. You're doing a great job on her George and I look forward to more updates. Judging by what else is on the bench you must be up to your eyes. Rich,

Des I can imagine how much work has gone into these wagons. I have measured and photographed prototypes from top to bottom. They are a complex mix of angle and box steel. The under frames are a story in themselves. You have brought a lot of quality products to us over the last few years and these wagons could be the most important yet. I will support this latest venture as I will need fleet loads of these wagons. Off hand there are 5 different loads that I have them earmarked for, for my own geographical timeline. You have done so much for this hobby Des and thank you for continuing to build the SSM catalogue and releasing such great models. Rich,

Great work George. If I remember the Bill Bedford etches had no roof detail, only sides, steps, and 12 grilles for the generator ends. Rich,

Lovely job again Des. It looks very nice, the waiting is nearly over. Rich,

Good man Des it looks great. I can't wait to see more. Rich,

Nice one Eamonn, Rich,

It looks fantastic and compliments the rest of your fine layout, you are right to be pleased. Also huge respect to Richie for more amazing and inspiring work. Rich,

Thanks Kieran, they are a bit underscale when compared to the MIR ones, and that is assuming that the MIR ones are to scale. Nice work on the wagons BTW. Rich,