It would appear that the square recess in the Simplex bunker tank doesn’t line up with the hook!
Tag: Steam Locomotive
Simplex boiler
Having neither of us having ever built a boiler. I started asking the chaps at PADMEC a few questions. Given the cost of the materials, if we get it wrong, the boiler is effectively scrap metal. Therefore it makes sense to find a professional to build one. That also has the added bonus of a guarantee. I found that Maxitrack were selling a fully TIG welded copper boiler but it was very expensive. Although after much digging around I discovered the chap that Maxitrack subcontract the boiler making to. My father spoke to him and the cost is much less.
Simplex blow down frame holes
Now that I have assembled some of the larger components I’ve found that the holes in the frames for the blow down valves are in the wrong location.
Shows the incorrectly placed hole in the frame.
Simplex modification
After talking to a few people who own or maintain a Simplex they suggested a few modifications.
- Cut the running boards to provide access to the valve gear.
- Cut a hole in the front frame stretcher so that the eccentric on the pump can be oiled!
Simplex Plans
I decided to buy a set of Simplex plans for myself to study. The plans are certainly not the easiest to read. I’ve decided to try and plot the frames on a computer.
It’s very frustrating at the lack of detail for some dimensions. The radius at the front and two at the rear of the frame I found very annoying. The centre point of the radii are not indicated, leading to much supposition of the exact location. As I had almost finished plotting out the frame I realised a mistake I had made. The last part of the frame is not square, it’s slightly tapered!
Time to start learning
I’ve bought a book on Model Engineering to start learning how to build a locomotive.
The Simplex 5″ Guage tank locomotive
We have aquired a part build Simplex from John, one of my fathers friends that sadly passed away.
Interest in Steam Locomitives rekindled
After a visit with my father to the Malden and District Society of Model Engineers my interest in larger model railways was stirred again. I drove several electric locomotives and a diesel hydraulic locomotive. They have a fantastic track with automated signal system. It’s well worth a visit.
I would really love to have a steam locomotive. I once had the the opportunity to drive one in Alexandra park in Hastings when I was a member of The East Sussex Model Engineers (ESME).