[modeleng] Re: [modeleng] 3½ versus 5
- From: "Charles & Dorothy Brumbelow" <cbrumbelow@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <modeleng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Mon, 26 Sep 2005 05:53:36 -0500
Give careful consideration to potential operating locations, Jim. Here in
the States it seems that the vast majority of clubs only offer 7-1/2" or
7-1/4" gauge track. Some have 4-3/4" (Stateside variation of 5"), and then
there is a growing group who model to run on 1-3/4" track in various scales.
Another factor is transporting the model. 7-1/2" gauge trains generally
require a pickup truck or full size van or station wagon as a minimum, and
may well require a trailer. Smaller scales can be carried more easily.
Depending upon the prototype, your 3-1/2" gauge loco might even be carried
in a suitcase-sized custom case. And, as another listee pointed out, the
capacity of your equipment needs to be considered....although if drivers are
the only items out of reach for your shop, their machining might be farmed
out. Charles
> 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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