Lou1985 posted:So it sounds like the easiest option, since I don't have machine metal working tools, is to acquire a 3 rail Mikado mechanism and adapt it to the boiler from the kit. So I'd be looking at the kit + a 3 rail Mikado mechanism + PS3 upgrade. But I'd need to get my hands on the kit first and see if the mechanism from a 3 rail Mikado would even fit. At that point buying a 3rd Rail SP MK5 Mikado and adding PS3 to it ends up being the cheaper route. I'm getting a bit leery of this as I could end up with $1k in parts I can't use. My idea behind this was a nice project for this coming winter, when it's too cold outside to work on cars in the garage.
Yes Lou, it’s easy to get a **** ton of money tied up in a project with out at least some sort of pre planning, or an incredible deal that allows some flexibility to purchase other major components.......for what I model, I gobble up 3 rail chassis, boiler castings, wheels, trucks, you name it....if I get them on the cheap, it makes swap jobs a whole lot more feasible......if building locomotives is fun for you, and your cup of tea, start by becoming a hunter gatherer .....squirrel away parts you can scoop up on the cheap, so when a project idea hits you, you’ll be ahead of the game....I can’t speak for everyone, but that’s how I keep projects at least on a sane budget......( doesn’t always work out that way, but I try like heck) ...........Pat
