Since there isn't a tender to build on the Garratt locomotive, I had to find somewhere else simple to start and get a feel for the kit. Logic told me that this had to be the middle frames that support the boiler. How hard can they be ?
Not very it turns out. The "footplate" is a single etching to which you add longitudinal strengtheners - 2 below and 1 above the plate. Lining things up needs care and regular checks but this isn't difficult.
Best of all, the metal takes solder wonderfully. I was able to use the smallest amounts and save myself a load of cleaning up.
With the frames done, the exploded diagram that IS the instructions suggests you move on to the cab. First task here is punching out dozens of rivets and here I was really glad I bought a proper GW Models riveter years ago. It makes a fiddly job quick and easy. Half etched dimples are provided in the back of the sheet and these are of different sizes resulting in different sized bumps. Some lines are big, some little and this looks very nice too. I chickened out of riveting the window frames as my attempt just resulted in mangled metal. Perhaps some small dimples would have been better here.
Cab side beading took 2 goes to get right due to me not thinking it through properly. The trick is to mark and start soldering at the back to the top of the handrail stops at the same height on both sides. It's not a big thing but you will notice it if you get it wrong. start at the right end and even this is an easy job.
The slots where the cab fits over the footplate strengtheners had to be widened just a fraction to get the front sheet sitting properly but it was s tiny amount. The sides and floor are added and then the backs. Care with the square makes sure it all the angles are correct - there are no alignment guides but you don't really need them. Plenty of room to get the iron in though.
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