00 Gauge Southern Driving trailer from Tri-ang/Hornby bits.

When leafing through the Southern Pus-pull book by Mike King, I came across this photo which on researching can be moderately accurately from the old Tri-ang/Hornby short Clerestory coaches.

The driving trailer fronts were somewhat daunting so I spoke to Roxey Mouldings. It was confirmed that they produce such a white metal casting so a couple were ordered.

I must admit I was somewhat surprised when they arrived through the letterbox the next day- now that is impressive!

The casting is excellent and has the same roof curvature required.

Using a razor saw the end was removed from part of a brake coach and the casting thinned to fit. This was glued to gether with superglue and allowed to cure before some epoxy is used to firm up the joints. 

Some filling will be needed to smooth some of the joints but not too much as, for once, I managed to cut almost precisely!

Held together by a rubber band whilst setting, the ducket section of the end was removed.

The pieces I have were cut to enable an extra compartment to be added to the coach in place of the guards compartment on the original.

Some slight shortening of one side was needed but it seems to butt together well. Seen here are the two parts ready to be fitted together. The tumblehomes fit well and will benefit from some strengthening once fitted together.

All in all a good couple of hours work and almost ready to be finally fitted tomorrow.

There are also the drivers compartment side windows to fret out but this will be done once all is solid.