Carleroo

Thanks. I will try what you did with the wire and see if that helps. Here's what the problem looks like when I try moving the locomotive. Notice that it gets stuck, both in forwards and backwards. Cheers, Carl IMG_3644.MOV

I just saw you post about the running of the locomotive. I have just mounted the wheels and rods, etc on the Br-18. I found that running the locomotive (by hand-I'm not motorizing it), it started out OK, but about a half turn after I started to move it it became stuck. I checked all the clearances, connections, etc. and it all seemed fine. At one point I even thought that it was being stopped by the rods inside the steam cylinders being too long and hitting the front wall. But then when I moved it and helped the 3rd wheel by moving it by hand, it worked fine. it seems that the lever connecting the 2nd and 3rd wheel is creating stopping the motion. Could it be that the problem is the rod connecting the 2nd and 3rd wheel? Similar to your situation?

You have done an amazing job with this locomotive. Your many detailed photos are extremely helpful, especially since it is sometimes hard to see the detail from the coloured photos in the instructions.

Thanks. I will give this a try! I appreciate the advice. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

How did you drill the holes in the brass boiler plates for the pipes? What kind of drill bit did you use? I have had nothing but problems drilling into brass in the past. I definitely need a few hints and tips. Many thanks, Carl

Many thanks. I have just completed the boiler and have begun working on the cab. However I notice that the instructions suggest mounting the cab handrails (brass wire with 2 beads) into holes. I also noticed that later on the various wires along the side of the boiler involves drilling some holes for the pins that will hold the wires. You suggest a hand drill. I have one of these but is is strong enough to go through the brass plates? Also, you suggest metal drill bits. Is there a particular brand that works best? And, how to you prevent the drill bits from sliding around on the flat brass? Sorry for so many questions. I am new to all of this... BY the way, I did start the boiler plating at the top - luckily for me. Good advice. That keeps the imperfections out of sight. (and I did create a few of these!!) Thanks, Carl

Hi Quintillius, I am a new member to the group. I have begun work on the BR-18 by Occre, and have benefitting a lot from your photos and descriptions. One question I have is how you drilled the holes in the boiler for the various pipes, etc.. Also the handrails on the sides of the cab. What kind of drill equipment are you using. I have a Dremel, and the bits just keep breaking (they are probably a cheaper kind). What do you recommend? Many thanks, Carl