[modeleng] Re: [modeleng] Re: [modeleng] 3½ versus 5

Thankyou Charles,

All three gauges are available locally.  I think equipment and weight bars 
consideration of 7¼.  I like the size of 3½, but I can see that in trying to 
achieve a sense of of scale regarding fittings, and practicality in firing 
and driving, then 5-inch has the advantage.  The downside to this, is the 
knock-on effects on equipment and working space!

Best wishes,

Jem
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Charles & Dorothy Brumbelow" <cbrumbelow@xxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <modeleng@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Monday, September 26, 2005 11:53 AM
Subject: [modeleng] Re: [modeleng] 3½ versus 5


> 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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