I can't remember exactly how long ago I built this model, but I know the chassis, a rewheeled Tenshodo SPUD, was written up in Modelling Railways Illustrated, so I guess that means it would be 1996 or 1997ish.
Built from a Nonneminstre Models whitmetal kit, the parts are superglued together using Zap-a-Gap green, thus proving that models built with glue can have long lives. The castings were nice and clean, so assembly didn't take me very long.
I didn't actually want to build a 4mm scale model of this loco. The plan had been to build it in 7mm scale for the O gauge layout at our club. Unable to find a plan, I decided that if I bought the OO version, I could just measure the boxy bodywork and replicate it in plastic at a larger scale. That project is still on the to-do list.
I built mine to EM, not difficult on a spud. Its finished in very dirty black, and had a non-prototypical flying lesson when it was knocked off a layout at an exhibition, ending up with a battered cab. The club paid for a replacement kit, and when I contacted Peter at Nonneminstre Models he supplied some extra cab parts, which were used to repair my model. The replacement kit is still untouched, there is a vague plan to build it on a scratchbuilt chassis at some stage.
ReplyDeleteA nice little kit.
That reminds me. When I opened up my kit, the sideframe casting was faulty - Peter apologised and quickly sent me 3 replacements. Top service and really nice guy too.
ReplyDeleteTenshodo have brought out a new version of the SPUD - coreless motor - if you want to improve the running
ReplyDeleteThis kit really appeals, but the replacement wheels frighten me a bit
ReplyDeleteMatt - they aren't essential. A spacer is provided for the top of the SPUD if you want to use the original wheels. TBF, it's only a case of sliding the axle of the gear and putting it on some Romfords. Spare gears for SPUDS are no money either.
ReplyDeleteJim - Thanks for letting me know. The last I heard, SPUDs were going to disappear, but it seems I'm wrong. Those new versions are even smaller and I'll be looking for an excuse to use one.
ReplyDelete