Another Car for Live Loads

 I started a prototype live load coal car last fall and during the design progression I started modifying the Berkshire Valley Models ore cars that I had. Only when I had a car design almost completed, did I realize that it wouldn't work. The mechanism would hit the trucks! I had not paid close attention to the depth of this car compared to my scratch built car. During the build, I had taken two of my already built kits and modified them.... only to learn that it wouldn't work!!! I boxed them up in frustration and set them aside.

Today I finished three new cars and had time to go back and look at this previous design. With some modifications, I think I can make it work.......

Sometimes it pays to set things aside, work on another project and come back with a new perspective. At least, I find this often works for me.

New Techniques = New Potential/Opportunities

I recently had the opportunity to try my hand at building a 3D-printed log car and a flat car designed by a friend. These even included Russell car and foundry trucks. I've constructed a few cars based on other's designs in the past, see the On2 KC boxcar, the On2 KC gondolas, and the On30 hopper cars. My previous efforts were from scaling up HOn30 designs. While the prints came out exceptionally well, they are rather thick-walled for the scaled-up version. These two cars were also more complete, with coupler pockets, truss rods, etc., already built into the design. Amazing detail and fun to build cars. Very interesting technique of using metal rods in the middle and side sills for weight. I enjoyed building these; I think I just like building cars..........And, of course, provided feedback on the designs. My friend is an amazing designer both at 3D CAD and at making new ideas work. A pleasure to have the opportunity to give these a try. A different experience from building with wood and styrene. What the future holds...........