Model Building Nn3 2-6-0 Part 5 - Tender Frame

In this build series Dan is working on a freelanced Nn3 narrow gauge 2-6-0 steam locomotive. While this model train doesn't follow a specific prototype, it is meant to look typical of old time narrow gauge steam motive power.

This engine is designed for our N scale Siren Creek dual gauge project layout, so a short wheelbase, the ability to negotiate tight curves, and working couplers on both ends are major design goals. This locomotive has to be able to perform freight, passenger, and switching duties.

The finished model will have DCC control and LED lights.

Like many other Nn3 steam locomotives, this model train is designed around a Marklin Z scale 2-6-0 mechanism.

In this episode, Dan starts building the tender. With the advent of the tiny LokSound 5 Nano decoder, Dan decided that this locomotive should have sound.

With its light weight and short wheelbase, though, reliable electrical pickup could be a potential problem. To combat that, Dan also wants to install a LokSound mini power pack, a capacitor circuit that will keep the locomotive moving for a few seconds if it loses contact with the rails.

This means that the tender has to be large enough to fit the decoder, a speaker, and the power pack.

Thankfully some of Southern Pacific's narrow gauge steam locomotives had tenders that are just large enough to fit everything. The Pacific Coast and Nevada-California-Oregon also used similar tenders. The only drawback is that Dan will need to build the tender from scratch.

In this episode Dan tackles the tender chassis, building the frame and tender deck and installing trucks. Dan puts a Micro-Trains coupler on the back of the tender, and designs a drawbar to couple the tender to the locomotive.

Though the design of this locomotive is freelanced, Dan's goal is to create a locomotive that is reminiscent of steam engines used by the Pacific Coast railway.

Even if you're not an N scaler, or not into Nn3 narrow gauge, Dan's techniques can apply to other models. Be sure to check this series out!

#train #steamtrain #modeltrains #scalemodels #märklin #nscale