Modellings tips and answers - unusual wagon kits - Videos

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This week in history

On Sunday 15th October 1933, Rolls Royce conducted the first test run of their new future aero engine, the PV-12.  Designated PV for private venture, the 1,100 hp engine used the new ethyl glycol, liquid cooling system.  Following their standard convention of naming engines after birds of prey, the name Merlin  ​​was selected for the new engine.  The mid 1930s saw the development of two hugely influential aircraft designs, namely the Hawker Hurricane and the Supermarine Spitfire, both of which were designed to use the Merlin.  Hugely successful as an aero engine due to its versatility and reliability, at the end of production in 1950 over 168,000 Merlins had been produced. 

The Tool of the Week is 35-80w Cordless Glue Gun by Amtech.  Supplied with a charging base and a 230v plug, this cordless glue gun can be heated andmready to use in 3-5 Minutes.  Provided with two 11mm glue sticks, the glue gun also has a metal base stand where it can be left in between tasks.  This tool would be ideal for model railway enthusiasts looking to assemble baseboards and heavy scene elements on a layout.

There is a saying amongst model railway enthusiasts, 'you can never have too many wagons'.  For many modellers, considering the number and variety of wagons to include in a rake is one of the most enjoyable of conundrums to ponder.  Whether it is on a small, rural branch line or operating in a large goods yard, it is always beneficial to have a diverse choice of available options.  For many beginners the easiest way to establish a pool of available wagons is to purchase items that are ready-to-run.  This is a simple and straightforward way to build up a good selection of choices.  That said, choosing kit built options can also offer a number of advantages to a modeller.  Firstly, kits tend to be cheaper so there are long term economies to be had for those who are looking to develop a large selection of wagons.  Additionally, kit options can also offer up unusual wagon types for those looking to add variety to their rakes. 

For those looking to model an industrial based setting, the contractors side tipping wagon by Smallbrook Studio could be an interesting choice.  This resin-based kit is representative of a particular type of wagon, frequently used on large industrial based projects and was also used in collieries.  For those modellers looking to develop a harbour based scenario, the GWR 'bloater' fish van kit by Parkside Models is a good example of the wagons used by GWR during the inter-war years to transport fresh fish from the fishing ports of the south-west of England to the major fish markets of the day.  Likewise, by Parkside, the LNER 20 ton plate wagon kit would be a good choice for those looking to reflect traffic travelling from a foundry or steel mill.  These versatile units were also used to transport large and bulky freight items including road vehicles.

Continuing with the industrial theme, the LNER bogie sulphate wagons were some of the largest wagons yet seen on the rail network in Britain at the time of their introduction.  Used for the transportation of fertiliser, these wagons continued in service until the mid 1960s.  Another versatile wagon with notable longevity on the networks was the GWR fruit van.  These large wagons were also used as parcel vans and some remained in service into the 1970s.  Both of these plastic kits are available from the Parkside range.  The Taunton concrete wagon is a good example of a wagon repurposed for a different role.  Original built as GWR sleepers, these wagons had sides fitted to allow them to transport ingredients for concrete from the works at Taunton to various locations throughout the country.  This example is produced by Cambrian Models.

Coming more up to date, the BR BAA 77.5 ton bogie steel wagon is a genuine heavyweight. Designed specifically to transport steel coils from steel foundries, these wagons were first introduced in the 1970s and the type is deftly exemplified by this example from Cambrian Models. Likewise by Cambrian, is another specialised contender, in the shape of the bogie rail wagon - SALMON long wheelbase wagon. These wagons measured in excess of 60 feet over the headstocks and were used for the transport of steel girders and lengths of rail track for repair work or new routes. The term MINK was a railway telegraphic code used to refer to a covered goods van such as the GWR iron MINK A produced by Parkside Models. These versatile unit also had long careers and were used to carry a vast array of freight including perishable goods and explosives.

Another type with a long period of use were the lowmac wagons as exemplified by the Dapol Kitmaster kit of the same name. A contraction of the words 'low' and 'machinery' these wagons were in general usage from the late 19th to the mid 20th century. With their distinctive recessed floors to aid loading and unloading, Lowmacs were used to transport a wide range of machinery across the Nation's rail networks. Introduced in the 1950s, Silo wagons were specifically designed to carry powdered materials in bulk, such as cement. The twin silo wagon kit enables a modeller to accurately recreate one of these interesting units.  Perhaps one of the most eye-catching of kit choices is that of the 15 ton diesel crane kit. This could be an interesting component for a number of vignettes, including track laying scenarios or a train recovery after a derailment. These last two kits are both available from the extensive range on offer from Dapol Kitmaster.

Although by no means exhaustive, the kits seen here offer a taste of the diverse cross-section of wagons that are available in kit form from a variety of manufacturers.  Each manufacturer will have their own unique way of configuring their own kits.  Some may not be provided with couplings so it is important to check if any additional work or parts will be needed to ensure that any given model will be ready to run on a layout.  For those modellers looking to add something different, eye-catching and unusual to their rakes, model kits offer the a wide degree of potential options that may offer attractive economies when viewed against long term layout development. 

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