The Home Machinist!

Well guys...had someone point me in the direction of a used Cannonball, 4-motor box cab loco. Had to drive out East to pick it up and haul that back to the Chi-town area. Luckily, the Seller's family WAS able to locate the hand control box...during the 11th hour. HOWEVER...previous owner was in the ...

Is that the same control box as for the Little Mack? Brian...best I can tell you, the control boxes look similar from the exterior, but can't say anything with regards to internal wiring. In particular, with the 2-motor Mack vs a 4-motor box cab. They might have used piggy-backed speed control pote...

I just purchased an older, used, cannon ball box cab. It uses the surface mount couplers using their part #LPS638 bracket, and coupler. I need new couplers. Where can I find them please? Hello RW... Sorry, can't help you with your coupler problem. Although if you posted a photo, might be able to of...

Paul...

Best you look at other sources for wheels. I, too, have been trying to contact C-ball...with NO success. Guess they never heard the expression..."The courtesy of a response would be appreciated." The least they can do is take down their website. Carl B.

Well Dick... If you're up to the task, the lamps could always be cast in something a little more durable...such as low temp metal alloys with bismuth. 281 deg F melt ingots sell for like $28/lb. Lenses can be made from electrical lamp or pushbutton covers. Some even have a Fresnal type lens. For the...

Glad you got it fixed. It sucks having a machine down when you need it. Ody...ain't that the truth! Was getting ready to start cutting the arc for some brake shoes when...the starting capacitor went out in the mill motor. Damn...things like that NEVER happen at a good time! Waiting for new caps. Th...

Chris... Will 2nd Karl Kobels comments about the "free" operation of the injector washer. Must move up/down freely on the stem. AND...the washer ridge faces UP when setting the washer back in place. But above all else...DO NOT DROP THAT WASHER...for fear of losing it under the steaming bay...

Asteamhead wrote: ↑Tue May 23, 2023 1:19 pm Truly real artwork, hats off
Asteamhead

Asteamhead...appreciate your comment! If you followed the log, hope you enjoyed the write up and of course, the finished product. DANKE!

Carl B.

Jim...enjoy watching your progress. Will ask...have you given any thoughts on how to lubricate the slide? Might as well do that now while the parts are still not assembled. Just saying... Carl B.

Brian...appreciate you describing a somewhat typical arrangement for mixed train service consists. And thanks for the compliment! Russ...as always, many thanks for your support from afar! Was glad to share the experience. Hope my efforts inspire others to do something...or better! Jim...you're most ...

DAYLIGHT DEBUT Well guys, was a moment several months in the making. While 2 of 3 shorties were displayed at the All American Train Show last March, outside temps here in the Chi town area were finally warm enough for some outside rail action. Couple that with the fact that it was finally warm enou...

makinsmoke wrote: ↑Wed May 10, 2023 4:17 pm And white is the color of asbestos…

...and black doesn't show dirt as easily as other colors (white in particular)...whether that be from handling, smoke, etc. Carl B.