Zeuke-TT, what's new?

[rdikken]

The rest of the pictures:

[rdikken]

The prototype from 2016:

[ConducTTor]

I like it a lot. The grabirons and other details are done really well

[milwrd1]

I agree. The end details, including the steps, are very well done. Also Includes in interior details. Very nice

[Richard-B]

Note that the interior slope sheets are actually metal weights...
so you can run these empty (back to the coal mines!) without derailing.
...a quite effective solution to getting weight in an open car.

[MacG]

To me, the car seems quite high. Unfortunately, I can not look, because all kits are sold. Ullisbahn was kind enough to send me a photo of his built car.

It looks more pleasing. It will probably not be possible to make it as low as the prototype. Link to ERIE prototype

Is it up to us to mount the couplers? Which I would prefer.

[Richard-B]

To me, the car seems quite high. Unfortunately, I can not look, because all kits are sold.

I'm pretty sure this was just set on trucks for a photo... NOT as an example of final production.

It will probably not be possible to make it as low as the prototype.

The model hopper car height is a factor of:

• car bolster depth
• truck bolster height
• flange depth

The bolsters can both be cut down until the wheel flanges hit the underframe... then it's motor tool time, and carve relief notches in the frame so the flanges don't hit on (much sharper than prototype) curves. Note that coupler height is also affected by the final frame height.

None of this would be a problem if we used prototype flanges... but this is one of many compromises made to balance the desire to have a prototype look, and still be able to run a string of coal cars reliably in a TT-scale consist!

[MacG]

We missed you at the virtual meeting.

I familiar with the factors and I would also modify my cars. But it would be enough if the wheel flanges have only a small gap to the underframe.

[ConducTTor]

it would be enough if the wheel flanges have only a small gap to the underframe.

I agree with this. It requires immaculate track-work though and I'm not sure that's realistic for most people. Anyway, we're all modders here so a height adjustment is possible for those wanting to do it

[rdikken]

I will look into this.

One small point to add, we are not using MTB wheels. These wheels do not oxidate and are more heavy than the MTB ones, making them also roll more smoothly. But I have to test this.

Thxs for the reactions,
Rob