Work on the layout has paused for a short time whilst I focus on a OO project; but I’ve had a mini side project on the go, the conversion of some HEA wagons into MEA box wagons as per the real wagons.
The first step was to remove the HEA hopper, straight forward just undo a few screws and cut the pipe work.
Remove the hopper mould from the chassis.
File down the raised lip on the chassis.
Measure out the floor for size.
Under floor support rib starts.
Ends measured, cut and fitted.
Sides fitted.
Basic shape of the box complete.
End and top rib supports fitted.
Wagon body complete, the underframe still needs some work.
Three pictured completed MEA boxes, I finished the fourth later.
These will be EWS, Mainline Blue, Trainload Coal branded and Trainload Transrail branded.
Wheelsets, ladders and support struts removed.
Hopper body removed and pipe work cut clear. Underside weight removed to allow striped underside to be sanded flush. Completely striped under frame with wheelsets replaced - next up is sanding flush to allow a nice level fit of the box. The pre fabricated boxes attached to the chassis ready for painting.