> I am curious as to why you would prefer the Stephenson Valve gear over > slip-eccentric?
Remote Control, ground level trackage + grade = remote control :-) and the ability to change direction from the remote. I may have to reverse out of a snow drift! Oh yes, and watching the bits whirling about ;-) > Also, since you are looking for a loco to build. What are > you looking for in a plan? Or what is important to you? First and foremost is knowing that if built to the dimensions on the plans it will fit together and work! It would also be expected to perform well. > i.e.: Minimum number > of machine tools needed to build (file and hand drill to fully machine > shop), I may not be the normal builder in that I have a well equipped shop with Enco mill and Southbend lathe. > Flexibility or number of options in design, Fuel/burner type and valve gear come to mind, any other changes I would expect to be 'on my own'. > Do you want to have your > hand-held through the building (each step must be spelled out in detail) or > are you comfortable with part and assembly drawings without detailed written > instructions? Would you like to see machining instructions or keep the text > limited to special steps (skills) needed to build the loco. Are you asking to what 'skill level' you should make the plans? I believe this is what it really comes down to. I bought Kozo's A3 book specifically because it was written for beginners even though I will probably never build a 3-1/2 scale loco, but in reading it I learned what was envolved in scratch building as well as many techniques on how to do it. It also gave me enough confidence to want to tackle the 'Project' engine, even though I have not seen the plans I am confident I can build it with Kozo's 'Machining Referance Manual'. Skill level: steam newbie. If Harry is a beginner then I'm still 'wet-behind-the-ears'. My humble opinions, Kindest Regards, PeteH
