The Home Machinist!

I DOUBT that you will find the need for anything other than 64ths. I have several steam unions that require 17/64 and 19/64 open ends. what is more remarkable is that I have several sets of old ignition wrenches (as described) that include these sizes. You can also find some metric wrenches that wil...

I have found that frozen rubber is easier to machine (quickly)...after you figure out the coefficient of thermal expansion.

Grinding is really the easiest way, if you have the facilities to do so.

You also want to wear a mask since you do NOT want to breathe the dust that is created...

This is what the wheels look like with steel tires attached (I needed a slightly larger OD for my 1" project)

I am using the Dinky drive wheels on a 1" 2-4-0 that I am building.

The Friends' castings are very nice.

I also have a complete set of drawings, which are also very clear.

you are headed in the correct direction with that thinking.

build something very simple first

Also consider the cost of storage / handling / transport of such a large loco.

It isn't something that you pick up and put in the trunk of your Toyota Camry and take to the track.

WHAT...you have problems with a few holes burned in your clothing????

WEDM of collets is a fairly routine process for shops that are set up to do it.

Ballpark price is $100 + the price of the blank collet

Find someone with a Texas Nuclear metal analyzer and have them 'shoot' it for you if you want to be sure. Google 'TEXAS NUCLEAR ALLOY ANALYZER' I also have rolls of the stuff the Jim used for springs on his Atlantic. He cut the strips with metal snips, punched holes in them and CAREFULLY SEALED AND ...

I have a complete set, and since Cole's is out of business, I guess it is safe to make them available....and they do not say anywhere that they are 'copyright'.... They are of a size that I will have to pay someone to scan. 4 pages 11 x 30, dated Coles 1967. I got them in Ventura many years ago..com...

Lots of good advice. Other suggestions - are the sliding surfaces bronze / brass or STAINLESS? Simply changing material from stainless to bronze can help if you are not in a position to put in a smokebox throttle (which can be a bear after the loco is built), you can replace the pull / slide throttl...