'Pandora' is the latest steam locomotive in the Shifting Sands fleet. Based on a Bachmann US chassis the loco uses a boiler originally destined for another model, a Dapol 'pug' kit cab and some new side tanks. I had some reservations that the cab would work on a 7mm scale model, however feedback convinced me it could work in O9, so the cab profile was altered to give more headroom and the frames extended to make an 0-6-2T. Size wise it is on a par with 'Fox' at the KLR, although it has touches of 'Bonnie Dundee' in tank loco form and a hint of Exmoor in the design too.
Also fresh from the workshop is the American outline 2-6-2, rebuilt with a new front end, improved steam pipes, a new bell (a HO diesel component!), and revised safety valves and whistle. There is finally a name for the loco - 'Thunderbolt'. I just need to create a story about rescuing her from the town museum!
Outside the workshops is a restoration project in waiting for the SMR Heritage Group... |
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With a little adjustment and a leading truck it becomes an O9 loco |
Getting into the swing of things now, a chimney, dome and smokebox door have been added. |
A side on view, hints of Exmoor and Kirklees design! |
A blitz on rivet details and boltheads, plus some injector pipes. |
The air pump is added plus some associated pipework. |
A close up of the air pump, a turned brass 4mm scale part. |
Pandora, complete and resplendant in Maroon. |
A size contrast with the American 2-6-2, recently reworked with changes to the front end. |
The 2-6-2 is newly named 'Thunderbolt'. A new belll has also been added. |
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