For the G1MRA 75th 2022 I want to try something a little different this time –
as well as my usual Orion Models trade stand I will bring along an absolutely minimal layout.
The layout is a G1 version of the shunting puzzle Inglenook Sidings – see here if you not familiar with the concept –
http://www.wymann.info/ShuntingPuzzles/sw-inglenook.html
My version will be the 3-2-2 one measuring 8′ long by 14″ wide spread over 2 of the usual 6′ tables.
This can just hold 3 wagons in one siding and 2 wagons in each of the other two sidings.
The basic principle is simple – place 6 wagons randomly in the sidings. Select the sequence for 4 wagons.
Then attempt to shunt them into that order.
Note it is impossible to get the loco and 3 wagons beyond the final turnout.
This can be done with scale couplings, but to speed up operations the wagons will be provided with automatic couplings.
I will provide a selection of locos (all radio controlled) –
my battery powered BR 08 Gronk – new simplified version if ready
my SECR H class – ARM1G fitted with reversible valvegear – new 1/32 version
my LMS 3F fitted with reversible valvegear
my GWR 14XX fitted with an oscillating steam motor – if I can get it completed in time
my LSWR O415 (Adams Radial Tank) fitted with reversible valvegear
my LSWR M7 fitted with reversible valvegear
also present –
my LSWR T9
my GWR AEC Railcar
my GWR Collett Goods – if ready in time
my LMS PI suburban carriage kits for the 3F
my LSWR carriage kits for the T9, M7 & O415 – probably not ready in time
my SECR carriage kits for the H class – probably not ready in time
various prototype locos –
my LSWR T3 – probably not ready in time
A selection of wagons will be provided
The wagons will be fitted with a G1 sized version of the Jackson coupling – see here
http://mmrs.co.uk/technical-articles/alex-jackson-coupling/
The locos will all be fitted with radio controlled loops to engage the Jackson couplings (or more likely the wagon hooks)
The only manually operated things will be the 2 turnouts and moveable magnets to operate the Jackson couplings
Note – there will be NO track power.
My RCH wagon chassis + suitable body – SR 12T wagon
PK 9′ wagon chassis (complete with wheels etc) + a suitable resin outer frame & body
LSWR Horse Box 4.7
LSWR Carriage truck 4.26
LSWR 1 plank open wagon
LSWR 8 ton insulated van
Everybody will be invited to “have a go”, so I can just stand back and watch and select the next 4 wagons to be made up into a train.
Everyone is invited to bring along their own locos to try (preferably r/c) –
locos will need to be fitted with a suitable coupling (at least one end) as follows:-
simple loop coupling –
a 0.5mm wire loop, 0.5″ wide, 0.95″ above track, projecting 1/8″ beyond buffers
can be sprung or r/c operated, needs to move at least 0.2″ downwards to disengage from Jackson coupling
or a longer loop that can be lifted to disengage from a wagon coupling hook
or
a Jackson coupling – see dimensions above
the supplied locos will have the r/c operated lifting loop
a sprung loop can be operated with a fish tail ended rod, stick or bit of wire
Note – this is really NOT suitable for a slip eccentric loco
As usual I will be alone on the stand, so if any members would like to come along and help
(with or without locos and wagons) I will be delighted.
I could really do with help preparing the locos for operation and supervising operations.
This is intended as a participation exercise, so the more that participate the merrier.
The day will probably start with shunting by the BR08 (no preparation required), followed by steam locos as available.
I may not have time to test this all out thoroughly before the event, so it may turn into an interesting debugging exercise.
So come along and have a go (or help, or both).
If you want to discuss any of this call me on 020 8460 4958, or email derek@orion-models.co.uk