I’m into O scale trains (O gauge) and would like to construct some metal trucks to replace my plastic ones that often fall apart. The metal lowers the center of gravity and is desireable among O scalers. They sell these by frequently, they are nearly the price of the rolling stock for just 1 pair.
If I could find a way to build these, that would pay for itself many times over as I replace my fleet.
I’d like to design one that uses screws (vice wheel puller).
I’m thinking along 2 lines right now.
First would be to melt lead or other metal into forms. Jewelry enthusiasts have done intricate designs in this manner.
Second approach would be to simply use solid bar metal for the frames and then resin-cast the detailed fascia. This approach would eliminate the smelting process.
I’d prefer, however, the first approach, as the truck would be heavier.
Your ideas would be greatly appreciated.
In anticipating replies, yes, I know I could add weights to the cars to lower gravity center and also could strengthen the plastic truck frames. However, I’d still like to design some metal trucks. Once I successfully complete one, they could be mass produced.
There’s no quick and easy way to do what you want. You’re proposing to do some fairly involved precision work in metal. Both of your approaches will work, but the step from one prototype to mass production, or even multiple copies on a small scale, is a large one. I don’t know of any way to avoid having to individually machine the cast parts which result. Sorry.
-Ed
david,
find your local jewelry making class at the high school, or junior college. there you will find the tools necessary to combine with your mind and push the envelope farther.
look to the kiln, centrifuge, and casting facilities. develop your own alloys.
lost wax is cool and easy. i hear “lost plastic” is possible and probably what you’re looking to do.
keep us posted.
-rrick
Have you checked to see if such trucks are already available? Seems like a very extreme step to try and manufacture them on your own. They are probably available in brass. Why try to reinvent the wheel?
Bob Boudreau
thanks for the tips; btw, the price for a pair of trucks in O runs about $15. To some, that is chump change.
’
I’ve looked at some websites that show how to make your own kiln. I’ll look into the lost wax casting or whatever that is and some other methods. To some it may sound like much work but to me it sounds like an adventure.