[modeleng] 3½ versus 5

Here is another 'new' topic, on which I would appreciate your opinions.
I am a relative newcomer to model engineering.  I have no engineering 
background.  In the distant past I have scratchbuilt models in 0 gauge (2-rail 
electric) and some wagons in Gauge 1.  I have a Myford ML10 in reasonable 
condition and a small bench pillar drill (rough!).  For the best part of the 
last three years I have been doing some restoration work on a Dore Westbury 
Mk.1: surgery on the motor, fitting new lead screws and nuts, devising 
different ways to attach the handles top the lead screws, making a drawbar, 
making a machine vice kit.  It has been a long learning exercise!  I now have 
some digital read-out bars that I have not succeeded yet in fitting....I do 
wonder if these are really worth the hassle.

I want to get started on a locomotive.  Until recently I reckoned that I would 
tackle something in 3½-inch gauge, but the vast majority of the received wisdom 
has advised against this size.  So, what I would be interested to read on this 
discussion group is your views for and against 3½-inch and 5-inch gauge, oh and 
while we are about it, we could add 2½-inch gauge.

Best wishes,

Jem Harrison
Basildon


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