|
| Prototype Locomotive Manufacturer |
Bachmann Prototype is Baldwin (WM Prototype is
Alco) |
| Model Manufacturer |
Bachmann
Industries |
| Model Run |
WM Decorated. DCC Ready. |
| Scale |
HO |
| Date Acquired |
First one from Melissa on Christmas 2002, Second
one from the Model Expo train closeout in September 2003 |
| Reference Materials |
Locomotive Quarterly Volume 26 Number 1, Fall 2002
Steam in the Alleghenies
WM Steam Locomotive Data Book (WMRHS)
WM Steam
Locomotive Roster
|
Melissa gave me this locomotive for Christmas 2002. While it doesn't
correctly represent any specific Western Maryland prototype engine, it does
have features of a couple of the Western Maryland Consolidations. It is
also a nice smooth runner, and a treat, since there aren't too many Western
Maryland steam engines available in plastic.
Here is the Bachmann Consolidation before any work was done. Ok, I was
messing around with some effects in paint shop pro :-)
In July 2003 I decided that I would attempt to convert this locomotive into a WM
H7b. The conversion would not be exact, given the wheelbase and some
other details of the original Bachmann, but it would be a reasonable
facsimile.
I originally started with the idea that I would simply replace the domes, but
them me being who I am, I decided that this really needed a replacement
boiler. The problem is, the original boiler on the Bachmann is not
shaped correctly, and it would have really bugged me. I also decided that
this would be a good project to size up for casting (if you look at my I2 page,
I have decided to start that model over with the idea of casting the pieces in
resin). This project also would not require the fabrication of a new
tender. A tender is fairly easy to rough out, but all those rivets send
you into sleepy la la land on the Sensipress.
If the casting goes smoothly, I might consider selling a conversion kit so other
folks can create a nice heavy consolidation for their own roster. If you
would be interested in purchasing such a kit, drop me an email at peter.brown
at this domain, so I can get an idea of the level of interest.
Also, since my wife bought me this consolidation for Christmas, I have a strong,
umm, motivator to get me to finish it. :-)
Some might call it a kit-bash, some might call it scratch-built.
Technically, the locomotive boiler, domes, cab and pilot will be scratch built,
the tender will be used pretty much as-is (with details), and the mechanism
will likely be left untouched.
For reference, here's a link to a photo of the prototype. There are also
some excellent photos in Steam in the Alleghenies by Ross
Grenard and John Krause, published by Carstens Publications. None of the
dimensions of this locomotive are exactly the same as the Bachmann, but many
(especially driver diameter) are close enough, and closer than any other
non-brass consolidation on the market.
http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/wm750as.jpg
The Western Maryland H7b locomotives were built by Alco in 1912. During
the late steam era, the H7bs were used on mine runs and between Elkins and
Durbin where the tractive effort of the massive
H9 consolidations were not needed.
The order of construction pretty much follows the order of the menu to the top
left.
Also, be sure to sign my guestbook
.while you're here :-)
As of August 9, 2004, I had taken a different approach for the domes and boiler.
I am converting my Sherline mill to a CNC mill. That will enable me to create
the profiles in 3ds Max (which I have) or Rhino (which I may get) and then
machine them in Freeman machinable wax. From there I will be able to create
resin copies for my own use and for sale. More updates to follow.
|