My first bug box has come together nicely. The ends were easy to curve using a rolling pin. Hinges were aded using sections of wire. The MSM door handles caused the most problems as they are so delicate you can't file them without destroying them.

 A true Ffestiniog train rake is now starting to emerge, brake van 12 will be next.

 Having referred back to source material the prototype couplings were wagon style rather than chopper, and fixed. So the model isn't accurate in this respect. I have opened up a small square hole in the end which allows about 1mm swing either way. It also allows the height to be adjusted accurately at a later date.

 The chassis is very free running. The floor has to sit slightly higher up than prototypical within the body however. I think the axle boxes should be within the box section. This is not practical if using pinpoint bearings but I don't think it will be apparent when the model is finished.

I have designed the model to have a removable chassis as well as roof. I thought the top edge of the etch would be rather flimsy, but with the second lamination in place it is really strong.

Just blue tacked together at this point. I think the ride height is too high still, I will need to refer to some photos. Its going to look really effective paired with carriage 16.

Having decided that I will paint the new rake in one go, I have started to build my first Worsley Works etch. I have decided to build the match board bug box as this is the simplest of the seven variations I have. The only complication is how to mount the couplings. I could have them in a fixed position or if I cut a hole the carriage end I could mount it more prototypically with a small amount of swing. I have 7mm wheels and these seem to give the right ride height but these will need mocking up before I commit to fixing them in place. Like carriage 16 the axle boxes use shouldered pinpoint bearings. The seat forms the chassis like the real thing and this part of the kit folds up from a single etch which is very pleasing!

The end has been detailed with the addition of vacuum pipes. I was all set to paint it green but the Games Workshop paint will not spray without the dreaded orange peel effect. This is a shame as the colour looks really good. I've decided to leave it in primer until I have built more carriages and then can spray them with my own mix of Tamiya paint in one go.

 Here 16 is sitting outside the Pilot Cottages and looking very pristine. I think I will tackle the port hole bug box next. This should be relatively easy as there is nothing to modify.