Ebay Oddball, not G gauge but still large scale ???

[vsmith]

Just what did I buy off eBay?

It's hand built, it's large scale, but it ain't G gauge. Near as I can figure this was built for a standard gauge section on a narrow gauge layout. Gauge looks like 2.5" it's all hand made, even the wheels are turned wood. The drive is a cordless screwdriver and it's very well done. But it's going to have to be rebuilt for the outside layout. Haven't decided what to do with it. Once upon a time I could just grab a couple Aristo centercab blocks, but those are rare as dragons’ teeth today.

It came with an ore car. The ore car will convert to a hopper pretty straightforward, but the engine is going to be interesting

(edit) yes those ARE drill bits for axles, don't ask me why

 

[vsmith]

Progress on the Hopper, painted it completely since these pics were taken, found a Tamiya paint that was a close match. also added grab irons to the sides.

A couple of pics showing its relative size to some standard Big Hauler car and its right in line with them.

 

[tac foley]

Fascinating stuff!!! We need to see it running, please.

 

[Paul M]

Fascinating stuff!!! We need to see it running, please.

With wooden wheels, it'll have to be on a branch line!

 

[tac foley]

Well, I 'wood' have thought that might be the case...

 

[Paul M]

Seriously, it's an interesting idea, wood is easier to turn than metal, but may be more difficult to make accurately. Cheaper too. Obviously totally useless for track power

 

[PhilP]

Seriously, it's an interesting idea, wood is easier to turn than metal, but may be more difficult to make accurately. Cheaper too. Obviously totally useless for track power

You would be limited to skates, for pickup..

I am guessing the Hopper, would be fairly easy to swap bogies, so will be easily converted..

The loco will be a different kettle of fish. Sourcing suitable wheels/axles (f using the original motor/gears) may take longer to achieve?

 

[Jasper]

Or you could provide part of your layout with a third rail, for mixed NG/SG operation. Very prototypical.....