00 Scale Large Samson Loco

The 0-4-2 ‘Large Samson’ class was an enlarged version of the Liverpool & Manchester Railway’s 0-4-0 ‘Samson’ locomotives (separately available), the most famous of which is star of the film ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’ Lion.  Lion, however, has undergone multiple rebuilds (also available) so this model provides a more accurate depiction of this class as originally built.  

This model originated as a jumbo-ised N Gauge engine, suitably altered to 00 operative tolerances and to fit proprietary parts (notably the tender wheelbase for motorising – this model uses the 00 ‘Planet’ tender available separately), enabling simple construction.  Many details not included in the original N Gauge version have been added in this 00 scratch aid to provide a ‘complete’ ready-to-paint model for beginners, capturing the charm of the prototype.  These can be replaced by more expert scratch-builders if desired.  The matching motorised tender is separately available.   

(Note: various materials are provided, however, WSF and BSF will require more preparation for smooth painting that FUD and FED.)

While most of the engine is provided, the following parts have been omitted due to fragility, clearances or the need to sand the printed model: 
• Tie-bars between axleboxes
• Rivet detailing
• Motion
• Loco-tender coupling (some drilled metal and pins will suffice)
• Crew 

The boiler is hollow to reduce weight, being sufficiently heavy by itself to remain on the track while propelled by the tender drive.   

The following additional parts need to be sourced separately to complete (web links given as examples only): 
Hornby 08 wheels & rods (rods to be cut down to 0-4-0):
http://www.newmodellersshop.co.uk/hornby_spares_wheels_and_tyres.htm
(Both available via this page)NB the wheels used for testing had square bearings, but as these bearings were designed to fit between the printed inner frames, being effectively unused (see photo), other versions may work just as well.   

Hornby wagon wheels R8098 http://www.hattons.co.uk/7287/Hornby_R8098_Metal_spoked_wheels_on_axles_10_axles_/StockDetail.aspx 

Other wheels/rods can be potentially fitted if matching the following dimensions:
Driving wheels – 19.5mm diameter (including flange; without c.18mm as per the Alan Gibson catalogue)
Trailing wheels – 15mm diameter (including flange; without c12.5mm)

I hope you enjoy this unusual and eye-catching model.