Chaldrons!

[richard]

A couple of weeks ago I added decals to the chaldron.
Looks better, even though it is remarkably clean!

The decals are from the Woodland Scenics rub-down range. The markings are based on general collieries from the north east. The "G" is the best interpretation that I've managed to come up with for the markings on some ?P2 hoppers on a very old photograph of Aberford. "G" would stand for Garforth. Have yet to find any photos of chaldrons on the Aberford Railway although I've seen evidence directly and indirectly that they were used.

Did a whole weekend of decals and did one of the 20 ton hoppers at the same time.
These are the Slaters methfix type - this is the first time I've used Methfix decals. Most went on okay, although larger words ("20 tons") were difficult and I ended up positioning each letter individually.
(btw, I've never seen a photo of an SD 20 ton wood-sided hopper, but the Aberford's connection was at the most southerly end of the NER network, so...)

Also attached is a photo of the Gladiator chaldron kit parts - I'm about to write an article for the BRMNA so I took the photo at the same time. The kit is recommended for those who want to learn how to solder whitemetal kits. Good solid parts.

Richard

[simon1356]

the chauldron wago you have pictured (very nice it is too) looks very very similar to the chauldrons used by the londonderry system at seaham harbour I was born and worked at seaham for many years there was a chauldron on display at the top of the docks for many years I believe it to be at the bowes railway now. also the early 19th century wagon way at beamish has some, not sure if they are reproduction though I cant help when i look at the picture of yours thinking they would look very nice lettred in the londonderry livery you have set me thinking but I must concentrate on the lambton system 1st!!!

[richard]

The chaldron is an NER P1 - sold on to the collieries in huge numbers.
Gladiator also sell a "General Purpose" chaldron (these are 7mm btw). I haven't found a matching picture yet. The main difference is the shape of the brake lever. Strapping is different, but this varied wildly amongst chaldrons.

Richard