Re-Design Update

I completely re-did the Amfleet coach to include better detail, and interior, and much improved internal bearing trucks that can be built with standard wheelsets (with the ends filed down flat) or with the included 3D printed wheelsets.  I have done this a couple time previously with "some" success but still needs to be fully vetted:  I have not run 3D printed wheelsets so can't attest to them being good for operation.  But it opens up a new page of opportunity... different wheel sizes, more accurate flanges.. etc.

I also completely re-did a 89' TOFC flatcar I had previously designed to also be better detailed and have the new/improved trucks and movable 5th Wheel Stands.  It's very much like the Bethlehem 89' flatcar used by Trailer Train in the 70's and 80's.  It has talgo style roller bearing trucks.  This is a test to see how it turns out..the first was ok, this one should be much better. 

Also working now on a 100 ft turntable.  Stay tuned!

A Couple Developments

A prototype of a new automatic version of the CCE knuckle coupler is on the way... if it (or subsequent iterations) actually work, it would allow automatic coupling and uncoupling with a hand-held tool.  It uses magnets to achieve the automation.  We shall see, but I think it has promise.

One of the downsides to this is I will need to update virtually every "kit" model I've made (which include couplers.)  I needed to do this anyway due to need for many kits to have the new roller bearing trucks added, and the updated detail on the couplers.. but wow.  I'm thinking maybe I should leave trucks and couplers off the models and just sell them separately unless they are highly specialized trucks.  I have standardized on a 1mm bolster pin for the trucks.

I revised and updated a model I never actually sold in the store..an 89' flatcar commonly used for trailer train service.  It could also be the basis for an autorack car and others.

A model of the Sharonville (Ohio) engine house, built by the New York Central and operated up into the Conrail era is on the way.  Most of it is 3D printed, but the roof will just be sheet styrene.  I'm planning to do a small diorama of the engine facility there to display models.

 

New Developments and Buying CCE Models

It's been a busy month or so and I apologize for not updating the blog more often!  There are several new developments with my T scale modeling and how CCE Models are offered for sale. 

Changes to CCE Knuckle Coupler and Roller Bearing Trucks:

Improved (v.2) CCE knuckle coupler.  The v.2 coupler has been enhanced to offer an articulated clasping movement, so although not automatic, it is more workable. Gently rotating the models to either side works to uncouple, and you can usually push gently together to couple.  I'm still tinkering with ways to automate this or at least allow automatic coupling.  One idea uses a very tiny metal "air hose" but that I forsee will just create more issues with catching in trackwork, etc.

The coupler also has improved detail, so it looks more accurate.  And on a related matter, since I do a lot of talgo-style trucks with couplers: I improved the look of the roller bearing trucks to have a more realistic profile and springs.

New Models:

50' Plate F Boxcars:  At the request of a Facebook T Scale group member (Michael Doll), I designed a pair of modern Plate "F" (hi cube) 50-foot boxcars.  One is a Greenbriar prototype and the other National Steel Car;  The main difference is the NSC version has horizontal outside ribs as well as the vertical ones.  These are pretty common today, and should fit onto one of the powered mechanisms if you want to add power to your trains.

PRR Signal Gantry:  After the initial proof of concept, I have refined the etched brass PRR signal bridge to have accurate bents and improved detail such as cross-bracing on the bridge.  This will be available in 5- and 4-track variants;  I may do a 2-track but I think it could be kitbashed to a 2-track without much trouble.

How to Purchase CCE Models:

As of September 2019, I no longer drop-ship through Shapeways.  I will still manufacture with Shapeways for the time being, but will ship from my stock.

There are a couple reasons for this.  Mainly, it is because I push the limits of Shapeways design parameters, so every time I add (or change) a model I have to fight them to print it.  I always must use a feature called "Print it anyway" which puts the risk of a failed print on me.  Although my designs have been 100% successful when I have used this feature, Sheapeways still doesn't allow customers to order this way.  The result is that about half the time when someone tries to order a CCE kit, Shapeways cancels it because of "thin walls" or "thin wires" in the design.

It's really frustrating and they have not been willing to do anything about it, I have decided to just sell and ship directly.  This allows me the additional ability to inspect models and ensure they are perfect before I ship.  I am also including additional details, such as etched brass handrails on certain models.  I'd like to get some more professional looking packaging as well. 


Here is the CCE Models Product List 
It's just a rudimentary list for now, but I will be enhancing it with descriptions, pictures, etc. shortly.

To order, emai your request to CCEModels@gmail.com.  I will confirm your order, manufacture and ship to you via Priority Mail.   Payment (prior to shipping) may be made via PayPal.  Shipping & Handling charge is a flat $8.00 for up to 4 kits (in USA).  I will quote shipping on anything larger or  international.  If you have any other requests, such as custom build/paint, or a custom design, just let me know.

Jesse/CCE Models