THE PATTERNS ARE FINISHED AND READY FOR THE FOUNDRY

[Trainman4602]

I just finished the patterns for the new Bettendorph trucks. These patterns were 3D printed in a plastic wood composite. This is my first experience with 3D patterns. The accuracy it just super. The core prints ,that's the black area are right on the money. This made it easy to make the core boxes. All the 3D solid works and 3D printing was done by Jay Gross of JG Conversions LLC

These trucks are the first in a series of trucks planned. They feature cores for detail and will be some of the best on the market. I also plan to make an Andrews as well as bring back the original roller bearing trucks.

I will have brake rigging available as well. I also plan to make different spring arraignments and the trucks will have working journal lids. I will have the original "NIXON" spherical bronze bearings available , the side frames will handle a ball bearing customer supplied.

AS for wheels I will subcontract that out. I have turned enough wheels in my life. Don't want to do that any longer. I will provided a list of wheel suppliers to handle that or just supply your own.

I will have prices as soon as possible.

BTW The trucks will be made of cast iron.

[cp4449]

What gauge? Excellent!

[Trainman4602]

Technically they are between 1.5 and 1.6 the center to center of the wheels is 8.5

[Harold_V]

Very nice, Dave.

In the hopes you don't think I'm trying to second guess you---but I'd like to ask if you have considered having them cast in ductile instead of gray iron? They'll look the same, and machine the same, but will have far greater strength, and will also have the ability to be welded much easier, should that ever be an issue.

Harold

[Pipescs]

Nicely done Dave.

Newbie Question: Would these take a Ball Bearing?

[Trainman4602]

Yes Charlie

[dwilloughby]

David,

Thank you for bringing back your trucks. I have two pair and they have been bullet proof for the past 19 or so years, and they were used before I purchased them. Can't wait to see the final product.

[SteveM]

Dave, the parts look great. Will you be doing a video on the process from cad to finished trucks?

I have turned enough wheels in my life.

Yea, I can't even IMAGINE how many wheels that must be.

Steve

[Trainman4602]

No CAD necessary. Only a file and a 3/4" Drill and a drill press to complete the trucks. The wheels are the only parts to machine.

[jeffsmith]

Finally a Bettendorf truck that looks right being offered on the market again.
Jeff

[Adirondack]

Dave, who are you using to run your wheels?

Thanks

Chris

[Trainman4602]

CATTAIL