The 7 1/4 gauge is undoubtedly the largest practical scale to build a live steam locomotive.
The sheer sizes of the locomotives are really impressive. This scale would have to be the ultimate live steamers dream to build and operate a locomotive, but I found that information was restricted, castings difficult to obtain in any quality. The sad reality is that we are loosing highly skilled engineers and enthusiasts to age. They are not being replaced because the new generation of business is not training them to be multi skilled.
The trend is toward a higher degree of component fabrication and to the more extent completed Loco`s.
I simply love the Atlantics and Pacific type locomotives. There is a lot of detail in these locomotives, they ooze nostalgia and USA railroad history, however, the English and Australian type 4-6-2 were a lot simpler in appearance and could use the Baldwin type piston valve cylinders I offer with the Baker motion castings.
If you were really ambitious, you could build a Challenger from the castings I offer and assisted with a lot of information that would provide valuable information toward creating this magnificent locomotive.
There is a 0-6-0 tank Loco in 7 ¼ gauge that has available castings. This Loco could suit a number of enthusiasts having lower outlays but yet enable them to enjoy this level of 1/8th scale live steam.
The initial intention is to supply 8 and 10 inch steel boilers built to code with copper tubes for both Atlantic and Pacific type wetback together with the castings. Progressively there will be machining options available with the ultimate aim to provide a lot more fully machined components to enable more enthusiasts to participate in this wonderful interest.
True scale is engineering art and not everyone can do that. Standoff scale or a freelance can also offer tremendous rewards on personal achievement and have an engine that can be enjoyed in a matter of months rather than years.
As I mentioned 7 ¼ gauge is top of the tree, it can be quite expensive but in reality as long as you create a half decent engine you will not waste money…………it is a real asset……..check out what they are worth and you will believe me.
The Forum is designed to build an interaction of engineers, enthusiasts who need ideas, techniques, pictures and friendship in this scale of locomotive.
OK,………….. all you need to do now is buy the parts and start building a 7 ¼ Live Steam Locomotive.
Ron Slender
