Here are some pictures of a rail truck I am building. I seen it in a Garden Railways magazine and thought it was a must have. After my quest looking for a model kit I came up with nothing. I used a diecast hot rod truck. It is 1/18 scale but I figured it was close enough to 1.20.3. I am planning on powering it with magic carpet trucks made by NWSL. Has any one used these before for power?I would like some info on these before I spend $80. on some. As you can tell its not done yet it is just a start.
I’ve never used the NWSL “Magic Carpet” drives personally, but I saw a “live diesel” that used these on each of the axles. The thing ran smoothly and pulled like a champ. Certainly for what you’ve got there, I think it would be adequate.
Another (cheaper) option would be a motor/gearbox kit from Hartland Locomotive Works. I think they go for around $25, and you get a motor, gearbox, axle and wheels. The motor is a bit larger than the NWSL unit, so it would have to extend up into the body of the rail truck. May be worth calling HLW just to see if he’s got anything else that might work just as well. They’re very responsive to scratchbuilders and kitbashers over at HLW.
Mid thirties ford? I was thinking of using an International Harvester (best truck in world, no argument) and some old bach. trolly power trucks. Heres why:(1) low profile (2) there cheep under ten usually (3) small wheels, and I run (future) on code 100.
Going to be a while before I get back to this project. Wife walked out on me and now its time for devorce. Not looking forward to that. 1St and last time I ever get married!!!
