JohnB, & All,
I have my Thomas, but a very bad head cold restricted me from getting out to the shop to mill the coupler pockets last night.
So, I am hoping to do so Tomorrow.
I have measered everthing out, done some other mods, removed unecessary parts & disassembled the model into workable parts.
This is tough, because I had to unsolder the motor leads form the main board, I did not want to go that far, but I did. This was only necessary to put the Deck into a Vise, to Mill out the Coupler slots, & then to accurately Drill & Tap them.
I also wanted to be ambitious & light the lights, & add some Weight to it.
So, those will slow down the overall project, but not stop me from showing the Coupler install, & other modifications, if you want me to share those…?..?..?
I also realize that modellers do not have a Mill, however, this could be done with careful measuring, skilled razor saw slotting, & a careful releiving of material with a Sharp 1/4" wood chisel to make nice pokets. I considered this, but wanted the precision I know I have with my mill. (because it’s there)…
Also note; on this model the Coupler Pocket depth is severely different from front to rear, due to the nose design of the deck.
Stay tuned more to follow.
And, thank you…
All,
Thomas is a Happy Engine!
Thomas has New Couplers for USA operation.
Thomas has gotten milled to accept Kadee Couplers, #156 Long Shank Scale Head. (I thought I had Standard Longs, but found these first).
This shows the approximate mounting heights.
You can see the edge of the Micromark Gauge in the Side by Side picture.
The Rear one has the bottom edge of the coupler box (lip), Even with the bottom of the Pilot.
The Front has the Shank is almostr exactly Centered in the Pilot even with the Bumping Posts centerline.
I will add thin styrere plates against the sides of the coupler boxes, & then fill that with JB Weld, & then Drill & Tap it.
Thomas will also get working Lights, & a little added weight later on.
Thanks,
Chad
If ya really want to have fun, pit a decoder in Thomas!!
I will give you a hint on lighting. The headlight I drilled from below then from the front, then put a 1.5 volt GOR bulb up from below. The wiring is glued up under the side rails out of sight and a voltage limiter is under the decoder to protect the lights. The rear light is just straight through. I’ve been considering a Loksound micro, if I can load that theme song into it! [;)]
Karl,
That would really slick!
Thanks for the Tips also!!
You can do what I did. I bought the entire Thomas train for the grandchildren. I also built a hidden parking siding in a tunnel for him to reside when the grandchildren are not present.
That way I didn’t have to change any couplers. Later, I also added Hogwart’s Express. That has the same couplers that Thomas does.