Description
(Note: Engine in photo is not included and for reference only)
After doing the same platforms for the Lionel GP-30, another modeler inquired if I would do the same for the GP-35 engines. Given the models are so close dimensionally speaking, I agreed and made the necessary modifications to accommodate the underside of the engine body. The assembly drops right in place once the parts are drilled and tapped. Another reason I did this work is to give people who are new to O Scale 2 Rail an opportunity to ease entry into the scale at a relatively low cost point and get on to learning to model in this scale.
Typically, these Lionel body shells are available and make for good kit bashing projects. Logically, the first effort is to develop the model into a working non-powered unit and then later implement the prime mover and power train with perhaps DCC and or Sound.
As noted in my own building of these GP-30 engines for my fleet of Chicago Great Western roster, the body sits high on the trucks as it also does for the GP-35. Thus, the first problem is to remediate the situation so that the coupler height is normal. In my first attempt to give the beginner modeler options to solve this problem, I am including some custom engineered platforms with insets to be able to lower the body slightly. This will all depend on the trucks that will be used and the truck bolter profile. The 3 main potential EMD Blomberg trucks are All Nations, P & D or Central Locomotive, I think may be available. My GP-35 will be a Chicago North Western engine when I am done with it.
For sale is a complete underbody floor kit for O Scale 2 Rail to host a motor, power trucks and fuel tank, which in my case is prerequisite work with a target of developing the engine non-powered at first and then adding in the motor and drive mechanism at a later date. The parts consist of a front end platform, a back end platform with 2 rail brackets to support the fuel tank. The fuel tank comes with an end cap. Included are 8 4-40 x 1/4″ flathead countersunk brass screws.
In order to assemble this kit, some parts clean up may need to be done such as removing threads or brims. First, fit the end platforms onto the underside of the body to make sure the floor insets into the body and things are flush. The only thing that should hang down is the fuel tank when finished. Next, using a #43 bit drill the pilot holes on the tank and cut the threads with a 4-40 tap. Next, drill the pilot holes on the ends on the rail brackets with the #43 bit and tap for the 1/4″ 4-40 screw. Mount the tank to the bridge rails. Note that on these platforms I did not take the initiative to countersink into the print mount holes on the platforms. This, because various body conditions may dictate your method to mount this on the body may differ. Once finished, you should have a 1 piece underbody structure that for all practical purposes should drop into place and ready to mount onto the body. The end platforms are open for tower drive mechanism and the flooring frame should support a motor, DCC or even extra weights if so desired. Given this kit comes with 2 unique front and rear platforms, the modeler needs to anticipate ahead of time which ones make it the easiest to accommodate the body height to the track for coupler heights and truck side frame clearances.
Printed with Prusa PETG Black color filament sold as is straight off the Prusa Printer build plate, all sales final no returns.
See my YouTube video for the GP-30 as a reference guide:
Made In The USA.
