The LNER Encyclopedia

My recently acquired 4mm (Little Engines) O1 kit suggests 16mm tender wheels. Isinglass shows 4'4" 13 spoke tender wheels! I can accept the size compromise, however I can only find 12 spoke wheels on Ultrascale/Gibson/Markits lists. Don't suppose there are 13 spoke versions on the market by any chance?
Sincerely PR36E GC

Hi Mallard,

This topic came up on one of the Scalefour modelling forums a while ago. AFAIK there is no commercially available wheel for Great Central tenders (i.e. 4'4" with 13 spokes). Going for 4'3" is not really a compromise in terms of diameter as it is well within the allowance for a worn wheel that has been re-turned. BTW someone even went to Loughborough to check the size and number of spokes on the Robinson O4. The Isinglass drawing is right as most other references (Roche, Sharman, Skinley etc....) incorrectly state 12 spokes.

Cheers....Morgan

Hello Mallard

Will you post progress reports and pictures of the O1 as you go along please? I'd be interested to see how the Little Engines option compares with a scheme I have in mind.

Incidentally, did you manage to get the kit new, recently, direct from Mr Little Engines himself? If so, how did you go about getting it and how long did you have to wait?

Graeme

Hi Mallard,

whilst I sympathise with your desire to fit correct wheels to your O1 tender I can only observe that the error will be nigh on indetectable when the engine is on the track and running.
So I would say fit the closest match you can. Invite any carping critics to make you a set of 13 spokers. That should shut 'em up.

Chaz

Atlantic 3279 wrote:Hello Mallard
Will you post progress reports and pictures of the O1 as you go along please? I'd be interested to see how the Little Engines option compares with a scheme I have in mind.
Incidentally, did you manage to get the kit new, recently, direct from Mr Little Engines himself? If so, how did you go about getting it and how long did you have to wait?
Graeme

I'm sorry to have to admit that it came from eebaygum, that well known Yorkshire auction site!
Oh cripes; posting pics and reports. That means I've actually got to try and start it. I can't promise anything spectacular, howver I will try.
I have seen several pics of this kit completed and it looks the business AND I've received positie reports on 'another' well known RM Website.
Morgan and Chaz - thanks for supportive comments. I'll go for the nicest 16mm set I can get hold of (maybe Ultrascale- can I wait 5 months?) and as my loco will only live in my loft then who gives a damn? Oh yes - Isinglass; worth every penny.
Great help lads - many thanks.
Sincerely, Hugh Canseethewheels.