Independent Snow Plough project.

Having bought and built one of the 3 'Genesis' white metal kits recently, I was looking on their website and noticed a kit for this snowplough. This gave me an idea, since many of these snowploughs were built by the BR regions from redundant steam loco tenders that they happened to have 'spare', and on the Southern (which I model) "Schools" class tenders were used, the rebuild being carried out at Eastleigh works. I found this line drawing on the internet, that and a few pics of the "Genesis" model itself gave me a pretty good idea of what I needed to construct.

Attached files

 

So I just happened to have a spare tender myself, unfortunately not a "Schools" class one, but a BR '8f' one left over from the loco I cannibalised for the chassis I used for my 'Golden Arrow' "Z" class. When I looked at the 8f tender, it bore quite a similarity to the line drawing, so I decided to go for it. Removing the tender body, I found there was a fairly heavy weight inside, just what I need for rolling stock that would only ever be pushed from behind. I cut off 15mm from the tail end of the body, as there is a small platform to be fitted here, and removed the fitted tender steps at the rear also, as the plough has a different pattern of step. I was able to easily fit a 'Kadee' No. 43 coupling to the rear (none needed at the pointed end, of course!), and made and glued on the platform ready for handrails etc to be fitted.

Attached files

 

Using 'Plasticard', I was able to make up a reasonable replica of the body, adding microstrip to the 'roof' to represent the sections shown on the drawing, made up new side panels, end and roof panels and the actual 'plough blade'. I noticed that the blade adjustment on the drawing appears to be by a hydraulic cylinder below the blade, so I've made up something like that, yet to be fitted.

Attached files

 

Here's the plough blade in position, but not yet fitted, as I have yet to complete fabrication of the upper part of the blade.

Attached files

 

I have to agree that it's not often modelled, but seeing the model on the 'Genesis' site gave me the germ of an idea, and a use for an otherwise unwanted tender. Quite apart from that, I've not used 'Plasticard' for model building yet, so just another 'learning curve' to master. I'm always happy to have a crack at something new (to me!) and it helps keep my brain from stagnating. Anyway, Family have just arrived for a visit, won't get much if anything more done today, so, to be continued!
Keith.

 

Managed to get back 'on project' after Family had departed, and as there wasn't really a lot left to do, I completed it ready for paint (which is mostly black anyway!). Looking at it, it reminds me of a cockroach!

Attached files

 

I've modelled it how I presume it would have been moved around, ie, with the plough in the raised position, as I've no intention of adding any snow to my layout! I added a 'hydraulic cylinder' (or maybe steam powered?) to the ploughs underside, although it's not really going to be seen much, but I might pick it out in the same yellow as the ploughs stripes so it is noticeable. Hopefully get it sprayed tomorrow, even though it's a Bank Holiday here in the UK. I try to make a point of staying off the roads during Bank Holidays, so won't be going anywhere! Maybe more pics after spraying.
Keith.

Attached files

 

Hi Ron. No, I won't be going to Telford, partly because I'm not into 'O' gauge so nothing to really appeal, but mainly because it's Daughters 37th birthday so we'll be spending time (and probably money!) this weekend with the Family. Looking forward to Spalding, and hopefully a meet with Gary at the NRM when he comes over. Will you be able to manage that, as I think Pete's said he's up for that too?
Keith.

 

Must admit I didn't know about the Peterborough exhibition, exactly what, where and when is it, Ron?

 

Getting back on topic again, paint is now sorted, I need to source and fix some suitable decals and satin varnish them, then consider weathering. I guess this will be mostly rust and dirt dribbles as these units probably spent most of their lives tucked away in a siding somewhere, ready to bring out after a (not that common in the South I guess) heavy fall of snow!
Keith.

Attached files