In Shops Now... CCE Models Products
This fall I began supplying CCE brand kits and parts to two retailers: TGauge.com (with worldwide distribution) and Fusion Scale Hobbies in the USA. So far, this inventory is of CCE couplers, some passenger car kits (the Budd fluted-side Parlor Car and a CN smooth-side coach) plus the TrainMaster (N&W and some other versions). Check out these retailers and inquire about CCE products if you don't see stock. While you're at it--buy a few FP9s and 6-axle powered, and adjustable chassis to stock up. And the Pin-Point wheelsets.. buy a 20 or 100 pack as there are several freight cars and an F7B coming that will need them. Remember, if you want to see more new products in this new scale, the manufacturers need to see support. I purchased a couple Class 67s even though I don't model UK! They are still great models to own.
Other developments:
As mentioned, the Budd fluted-side parlor car (PRR design), a CN lightweight coach and a
CN baggage car have all
been shipped to the shops noted above and fit the Adjustable Chassis. The CN cars closely resemble those of other roads if you aren't too picky. Just decorate them appropriately--the following may be helpful:
A decal set is available for the passenger cars that has markings for multiple companies and can be used on any of the cars. Fusion and TGauge.com both should have these in stock.
Several new road-specific versions of the TrainMaster have been made, including SP, Reading, Southern Railway, and Virginian, along with decals. I'll be sending a couple of each to the retailers. The N&W model is in stock at Fusion currently and should be at TGauge.com as well.
Hoppers old and new: I designed a new 80-ton open hopper and re-designed the 100-ton open hopper to go along with the N&W Train Master. Here's the N&W 80-tonner showing the end bracing--all 3D printed and robust enough to not break very easily.
I also did a refresh of the ACF 4750 cu ft covered hopper (a la PRR-Conrail H-45) so it's 100% 3D printed including end bracing and ladders. This saves the trouble of bending the etch which was quite difficult to get right. The details and contours were also improved.
WP&Y Layout Update:
The lake (Bernard Lake) has been poured! I used Woodland Scenics "murky water" with the lake bed painted with WS olive drab and tan shoreline, with a blend between the two done with airbrush. Overall it was pretty easy and took two full pours (about 2 pints). The shoreline has the usual surface tension thing that happens with these poured resin waters... I may play around with some matte finish to mitigate the leeching effect and build up the shore ground texture a bit near the water. The background rock and foliage was airbrushed with some light gray to blend it with the backdrop, which was printed by a friend in a continuous strip. Overall, I am satisfied with the effect of looking across a wide lake with forced perspective. Now to finish the foreground scenery adding some trees, etc. install the Fraser water tank/station.. then run some trains! I need to paint up a pair of the DL535Es...
This has been another year of tremendous growth for T gauge, and I think 2024 will be even better! I hope everyone has a great holiday season, and look forward to more modeling in the New Year.
Until next time!
- Jesse (email any questions or requests to me at ccetrains "at" gmail)
