I plan on entering the market to create trains with their shell made from a type of resin that should help it deal with the weaknesses it has such as UV damage and durability, where my goal is to help introduce my own model trains with a lower priced model. Quality is of course a focus, that’s an advantage with SLA. But what do you guys think, are you for this idea, or against it? My goal is to help people be easier introduced into the hobby since, let’s be real here it’s a very expensive market, and this is more of a passion project with how I’ve always loved trains. I try to be realistic with future costs and investments towards this future, but any tips on this journey would be appreciated.
You night explore niche markets with 'entertainment value' such as 'excursion / tourist' cars and palace cars. For example gondolas with open air seating, outdoor cooking / grilling and tables / chairs. I know of a 3D printer that has done a kitchen crew for a dining car. While I am not in the market for any more 'N Scale' I am in the process of designing similar cars for my HO layout.
Welcome to TrainBoard. Quality shells that aren't available via large manufacturers are always welcome to the hobby, however the problem isn't always lack of availability of shells. There are dozens and dozens of shells available via SLA technology. If you're trying to penetrate the market for the uninitiated, my instinct says those folks might be more inclined to buy something already painted, something that has wheels that roll, couplers that work and a motor if we're talking about locomotives. All of that starts adding to cost. You didn't specify what type of shells you're interested in manufacturing. As someone who does mostly locomotives, I can say the one thing I'm looking for (as a "manufacturer") is someone who can manufacture chassis and trucks for my specialty locomotives. I've done custom chassis for two locomotives but for trucks with smooth running gears, the right axle spacing and wheel size, there is a huge void out there. It's non-existant, actually. We can usually get by with fudging some measurements here and there but it sure would be nice to have a proper running mechanism that requires no hacking to make work. If you can elaborate a little more on what you're thinking of in terms of product I'm sure a few of us can provide more precise thoughts on it. Cheers -Mike
I don't mind painting and decaling, but I HATE having to add details (grab irons and ladders specifically...why make an engine that has ladders like the SD-7/9 and then don't make the ladders freestanding?) and making/installing handrails...but this is just me. Most important, I would like an engine (or at least a shell) that is ready to mount or run...just add paint (or don't, have everything ready to run). Give me engines that are not available...how about a Baldwin AS-616?
