Port Douglas Tramway Open Wagon

The latest wagon to emerge from the works, a Port Douglas Tramway open wagon.

The prototype was built to carry 4T of bagged raw sugar from mill to port. One is now preserved at ANGRMS. We use it as a ballast wagon, though it's not ideal for the job, as it's all to easy to overload. We've had to replace some of the suspension in the past, because of this.

The model has working brass hinges and catches, and will also serve primarily as a ballast wagon. Construction is styrene, painted with red oxide primer from the hardware shop, and Tamiya's Flat Black. Weathered with Tamiya acrylics, washed and dry-brushed, in addition to being given the iron powder and vinegar treatment.

Wheelsets, axleboxes and couplings are from IP Engineering. Holes were drilled in one pair of wheels, as currently fitted under the prototype.

 

Fine iron powder, sprayed with vinegar after application, makes for an easy, yet unbeatable method to replicate surface rust.
I don't know how long this method has existed, but it you've not tried it, I described it in the Tipper Wagon build.

The retaining pins are 0.8mm diameter dressmaker's pins, and require needle-nose pliers to insert and remove. Needless to say, I intend very rarely to use them - but wanted the option available nonetheless.

Comparing with the prototype, the door hinges, rivets and axleboxes aren't quite perfect, but they'll do.

The ballast stockpile at Woodford - spot the model.