I've got a lot of the locomotive modeled now, and my printer is shut down while we re-organize the basement, so I decided to organize all my CAD and publish it: https://github.com/butcherg/DRG_168 It's still the old Github repo I posted about some time ago, but it's been re-organized to include al the OpenSCAD scripts used to make the .stl files. Also, the .stls are not in the repository tree anymore; instead, I build them in-batch and package them into a release. So, you can get version 0.1 of that here: https://github.com/butcherg/DRG_168/releases/tag/v0.1 In that package is stl_integration.scad; it occurred to me as I'm writing this that it won't work, as it now depends on another .scad file that's not in the package. I'll fix that in a subsequent release. All of the files at this repo are copyrighted by me, all rights reserved. However, I release them for use under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution license 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode which basically says you can use them for any purpose, even commercial, as long as you provide attribution to the source (me). I'm actually interested in who, if anyone, will pick up OpenSCAD and do something with it... The model still needs significant work, things like bearing pockets for the tender trucks (which'll use Kadee wheelsets), a loco-tender drawbar, handrail stanchions, pilot supports, pilot truck, etc. Even then, assembling the printed parts will require wire-based details and painting/decaling to make a nice static model. Once I have a static model, I'll modify the frame and smokebox_boiler_firebox to accommodate a motor, make metal valve gear, etc, for a running version. Actually, for any model (.scad) modifications they'll be to new versions of the affected files so the static model will still exist. Anyway, for what it's worth...
Glenn , Will the loco frame fit under a Balboa T12 ? I have an older one that I want to remotor , and thought it might be easyer to start with a new frame . Mike
That's a great question. Right now, the interface between frame and boiler superstructure assumes 0.25" width, and the frame has a tab that inserts into the smokebox cradle and two screw holes go through it, cylinder chest and smokebox (front) and it, cab floor, and backhead support (rear). I don't have access to a Balboa T-12, but I'd be interested to see how what I've modeled could be modified to fit on that frame. Edit: oh wait, you're talking about a new frame. I'm ruminating using my frame model to cast one in brass via shapeways, and I'm also considering purchasing a mill to do frame work. Yep, I started the whole 3D printing thing to avoid machining, but I'm coming around about that in a few ways...
I could take it apart and shoot a few pics of the Balboa loco . Would that be any help ? A new brass frame would be great ! Especually if the original running gear can be used . Will you use a NWSL gearbox ?
I'm not ready yet to work the operating frame, but when I do getting some Balboa images would be informative to assess making the changes compatible with it. I've looked at the NWSL catalog, but I'm not sure any of their offerings will fit my frame. I think I'll need some sort of gear box to include an idler that would put the motor into the boiler.
Definitely will need an idler gear box. The one in the balboa is pretty worthless for anyone who wants a modern motor , It only has 1 shaft bearing as they made the motor shaft long enough to reach the worm . Yea , I have no idea which NWSL gearbox would be best . Did they make HOn3 gearboxes ? I wonder if PSC has a gearbox that would fit ?
