I want to build a gas/diesel rural self powered combine, of the ‘gallipin goose’ genre.Is there a database for unusual ,one of a kind units that I could draw on for inspiration?
By “database,” do you mean a ROSTER of such units?
No I was hoping for a photo gallery or at least links to photos.
Do a Google Images search on “Galloping Goose”.
I’m sure many images will turn up.
You might also consider looking for railbus.
Do a search on the narrow gauge Denver & Rio Grande western. The Durango and Silverton, Delores, Colorado (I believe they have on on static display there) Pierce Arrow, and the Rio Grande Southern. Also, try the Toltec & Cumbres railroad and The Colorado Railroad Museum (they also have a galloping goose on static display). the Galloping Goose was pretty much exclusive to this neck of the woods…chuck
You’re a lucky guy. The data base for the “genre” is whatever works. The Geese were a response to a need using readily available parts and good ol’ yankee ingenuity. Any shortline or branch (yours included) who had a similar need for a self propelled vehicle of that sort would prevail upon the superintendent of the mechanical department to come up with said contrivance. He in turn would scrounge the back shops, dragging the machine shop foreman with him. Some short while later, the desired creature would emerge, often as not looking every bit the mongrel it was.
For a little inspiration of freelanced railcars, busses, trolleys and so on, www.carendt.us is full of good ideas. Use the search function. You too can be the proud builder/owner of a supremely ugly ( I mean practical) creation like the Goose.
Have fun,
Lou