MOC Showcase: LEGO Narrow Gauge Steam Locomotive (BDP S6)

This is my entry for Series 6 of the BrickLink Designer Program. Vote link coming soon!

This model was previously submitted to Series 1, but was not selected as one of the finalists for that round.

About the model:

Whether it's pulling a freight train up a steep & twisty railway in the Himalayas, a passenger train on a tourist railway, or sitting on the desk of a train fan, this odd looking steam engine will feel right at home.

This model is inspired by real narrow gauge steam engines from the Indian Himalayan region, where some of these 100+ year old locomotives can stil be found working. I've always been fascinated by these weird looking engines, so designing and building a model of one is something I've wanted to do for a long time.

Despite its small footprint, the locomotive packs in a lot of details and interesting building techniques. I hope the model will offer a fun and surprising building experience, even for more advanced builders.

While the model is mostly intended to be a display piece, the train can run on 4-wide tracks. (Built using part 3228c, or part 85976 for curves). The model also features a tow ball socket at each end, making it possible to build and connect your own wagons.

The locomotive is roughly 20 studs long and 6 studs wide (with some details protruding to 6,4 studs wide), and contains 369 parts.
The display is 36 studs long and 14 studs wide, containing another 317 parts.