Model Forum / General / Railroads / October 2003

No contest, go with the Heljan 47.

Nick
http://www.dyserth-road.co.uk

I suppose it all really depends on cost, fun and a whole host of other
things.  If I had to make the same choice, I would choose to keep the
Lima stock and detail it, because:

*  Lima (just about) runs well enough for my needs;
*  Doing the detailing stuff if the fun part of the hobby for me;
*  (Relating to previous statement) I don't get much satisfaction
buying a ready made, "perfect" model (I know, even Heljan have errors,
but I mean in comparison);
*  I cannot afford to get rid of a load of models and pay for a load
more, ostensibly the same, models.
*  There is also the satisfaction of saying, "I did that".

Of course, your values and priorities may be different.  However, with
a bit of care and *take*your*time*, you should be able to create a
reasonable product.  Don't try to hurry detailing though.  Trying to
get instant results, I find, gives instant poor results.

Best wishes.

PhilD

--
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Forget the Lima and go for Heljan.....
After removing the Heljan loco' body !!!, the body and chassis can be
altered by removing plastic from the inside of the body at each end and the
four corner areas, after disconnecting the electrics, proceed to remove the
required amount of metal from the chassis sides, corners and ends.     If
you look at the chassis you will notice mould-lines/areas which can be filed
down to narrow the width.    This will help by avoiding the body being
forced out more than necessary....you can also warm the body slightly and
bend the sides inwards.    Smear a little suitable grease to the corner
areas of the chassis.
The body should now be easier to remove and refit.

Regards,

Colin.