I’m going to (attempt) to build a DD40X out of scratch for HO scale in time. I am going to try to make everything as close to the prototype as possible, and would like some advice on hwo to build handrails, wht to use to make the body, and so forth.
Thanks
That’s a VERY big project to start learning how to scratch build! Something probably other modelers with plenty of experience would not even try. Start of with something a whole lot simpler like a small industrial switcher, learning all the way and go from there. Why scratchbuild such a monster, maybe kitbashing would be a better way to go!
I would agree with Bob, that sounds like a very ambitious project for a beginner. I have done some scratch building in the past and currently am working on another engine build. For a how to on how I built one of mine from scratch here is a link.
Thanks for pointing out that that is an ambitious project. What I ment was tips to learn how to scratch build/kitbase
Avenger,
There are no hard and fast rules for kitbashing/scratchbuilding. I kitbash steam in N scale. It really is trial and error (emphasis on error). My suggestion is to do it in styrene. Get yourself a good supply of sheet styrene and styrene strips in various sizes.
The complicated features on the DD40X such as the louvers, hood doors, fans, etc. are often easier to make by using parts of other locomotive shells. Bachmann made a DD40X in HO… You ought to be able to find one at a show or eBay. If the overall dimensions are correct for the body, you may be better off just detailing the body and re-powering the engine.
There aren’t really any books or articles I know of that would tell you general rules for kitbashing or scratchbuilding locomotives (although Art Curren had done a book about kitbashing structures). You may want to search the trains.com online database for articles about diesel kitbashing/scratchbuilding to get ideas.
Good luck! I’d never presume to assume someone I’ve never met can’t handle a big job like this. I salute you for trying!
Keep us updated with pics as you go!
It would probobly be easier to build something that DOESN"T have to operate, fit a motor in, etc. A building would be a good starting point.[2c]
avenger,
I would have to agree with everyone else’s suggestion: Pick a simple project to get your “feet wet” then gradually find more and more projects that will “hone your skills” as a modeler.
I started scratch-building just last year and enjoy it very much. My first project was making exterior light poles. It took me a little while to figure out exactly how to make them. But now I have a step-by-step instruction sheet so that I (or anyone else) can fabricate them for 10-15% of the cost of buying them.
After that I chose a simple ball signal then a more complicated 2-light/2 ball signal. Then I built a workman’s shanty to go along my ball signal. I’ll eventually find more complicated projects to do. It is fun! [:)]
Find something to kitbash and be willing to make mistakes. Record what you are doing (i.e. measurements, processes, etc.) on a separate sheet of paper so that you can go back and repeat the things again that did work. (I use both written descriptions and drawings to make my recording notes.)
Again, start simple. Otherwise, you run the risk of getting frustrated and never completing your “dream” project.
Hope that helps…
Tom
P.S. avenger, you can see a few of my “How to” projects on my web site link below.
Nice Engine. Have you weighted it? Where did you stuff the weights? Does it pull much? How many cars? Looks really good. I saw an old ahm center cab like that one at a store in georgia a couple weeks ago. It looked really good and ran awesome for an ahm deal but it had 2 broken handrails. So I left it there wishing i spent the $25 for it later in the day.
Oh well
mike
Thanks for the kind complinents. It is moderatly weighted and does need more. There is a lot of room inside for weight as well as behind the lower skirt. In fact, I am thinking of detailing that area with lead air tanks and fuel tanks. On the flat and level it will pull about 25 cars. It realy falls on its face on any kind of grade though. 2 maybe 3 cars is all it can muster. The thing is, the prototype had the same problem and these were usually used in double header service over the hills. As far as running quality, it runs like A proto 2000 SW engine as the internals are mostly that.
I personally think a good craftsman kit is a good jumping off point into the more complex scratchbuilds. Most of them give you the materials all together as well as step by step instructions. You basically scratchbuild without having to hunt all over for the various parts you need.
Thanks for the help! I’m going to start with a simple project first, then move up to the DD40X.