How to make an 'n' gauge LOWMAC - Part 2

Preparation of the springs and axle box could not be simpler. Remove the wheel sets from the bogies. Wash the bogies in soapy water of white spirit to degrease it.

Mark a cut line using masking tape aligned on the outside edge of the small black box (shown arrowed) each side. Note: coupling end of bogie.

Cut alongside the masking tape edge with a razor saw ensuring a 1mm wide cross bar is retained. If the lower tie bar did not break then cut it off at the black box(s) shown arrowed.

Discard the end without a coupling.

The side frames will be fitted to the backs of the axle boxes. They occupy much of the gap between the wheel and axle box. So, if there are raised ribs on the rear of the angle boxes file them away so the whole area is flush, thus increasing the gap and hopefully eliminate wheel binding. Be careful not to weaken the boxes by taking too much material away and ensure the axle pin point hole is not removed in the process.

Repeat with the second bogie.

To Part 3

To Part 1.

David