Power to the Proletariat!!! Motorizing Static Models.

[Anonymous]

Hey Everyone.

I'm just dropping a note to inform everyone of a new project I have aquired that will most undoubtedly sit on the shelf until I have the time to work on it when I am out of college.

The other day I was shopping on E-bay and I picked up Monograms Big-Boy and Hudson for a good price. I got looking and started pricing wheels, contacts, motors, ect, and I have decided that I can motorize both of these models for an additional $75.00 each. Considering that Revell-Germany now makes these models for a list price of $15.95 for the Hudson and $19.95 for the Big Boy, and these Models are also aivailable from Con-Cor for the same Price. I have found a way to cut the cost of adding a Big-Boy to my fleet by at least 2/3s and rougly a third for the Hudson. Granted one should probably read the 1997 Model Railroader series on Scratchbuilding a steam locomotive so they have an idea on how to put the drive train together, but I feel this is going to be a fun, interesting, and noteworthy project. I am currently eyeing E-Bay more Big Boys and Hudsons to do.

Any comments, suggestions? Anybody else do this before? I would love to hear about them.

James

[Anonymous]

I've powered the Hudson using a Rivarossi Pacific chassis. I have another one I am planning to power using a Mantua frame and drivers.
I have the Big Boy but haven't started that project yet. Let me know how it works out.

[AggroJones]

Intresting. Let us know how it turns out. You probably know this, Bowser has many of the parts you need--valve gear pieces, wheels, motors, etc.

[Anonymous]

James,
I've also powered an old Hobbyline 0-4-0st static model. I even used the stock plastic frame. I have a Hobbyline PRR A5 (Yard Bird)and an RS3 waiting to be powered. I would like to find one of their Berkshire kits too.

[Anonymous]

Cool. Its glad to know I am not the only one to undertake this endeavor.

James

[Anonymous]

Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I found a set of Scematics online that shows how to gear and power 8 coupled articulated Locmotives. Just what I need to know. This project is really underway now.

James

[pedromorgan]

any news on how its going??
i fancy a go at this but being in britain, getting the wheels ang valve gear is a problem.
any sugestions??

Peter

[Anonymous]

Nothing new to report on this Project as of yet. But I did discover that Northwest Shortline makes all the gears I need. Still Looking for Drivers.

The stock push rods on the Big Boy will work, But are one cast piece on the Hudson, Si I will have to find those parts to make them operable on the Hudson.

James