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Index | Resources | Modelling > SDJR Coach Etches from Bill Bedford Models
Text by Russ Garner
SDJR Coach Etches from Bill Bedford Models
Ever since SDJR etched coach kits have been on the market one omission has been the 6-wheel Brake Third with the central ducket (guard’s lookout) – a must for anyone modelling the branch lines. Well, wait no more. Bill Bedford Models has not only produced the etch, but it comes in both varieties; Craven-built (Nos. 80-84) and Highbridge-built (Nos. 101, 104, 113, 119 & 121).
Photo: Russ Garner collection
Also available are a set of vintage 6-wheel close coupled coaches with flat ends, seen here at Sturminster Newton station c1893. These coaches were probably derived from old 4-wheeled stock that were joined and placed onto a 6-wheel chassis – as per the Washford coach currently under restoration. Apart from the All First (second from the engine) it is not known how long these coaches lasted or what numbers they carried, whereas two All First coaches, numbered 4 and 7 lasted until 1930 (both having been downgraded to Thirds in 1928).
Above is the Bill Bedford Models etch for the 30ft 6in three compartment Brake Third with flat ends – note that the guards door is (correctly) hinged to the right away from the ducket. To complete the etches you will need to source buffers, wheels and bearings, axle boxes, oil or gas lamp tops (plus roof torpedo vents for the All First when gas-lit), gas cylinders, wire for gas lines and the longer grab rails, vacuum brake apparatus, partition walls and glazing. Currently there are no short buffer brass sleeves available although I have been offered a short run (4mm) in resin at a reasonable cost – if the brass option is not forthcoming I will announce the availability of the resin casts in due course.
List of SDJR coaches currently available for order are:
BCK 1400 30ft 3in First with flat ends
BCK 1401 31ft 0in Brake Third with central ducket (Craven-built with high arc roof)
BCK 1401a 31ft 0in Brake Third with central ducket (Highbridge-built with low arc roof)
BCK 1402 30ft 0in Composite (2nd / 3rd) with flat ends <All Third after July 1893>
BCK 1403 29ft 6in Passenger Brake Van
BCK 1404 30ft 6in Brake Third with flat ends (3 compt.)
These etches will be available in 2mm, 3mm, HO, 4mm, S scale, 7mm and G1. Etches are only available to order so do not expect an immediate turnaround as stocks are not kept. Further details can be found at:
Bill Bedford Models: www.mousa.uk.com
E-mail Bill Bedford: billb@mousa.uk.com
Further developments will be announced with regard to more SDJR coaches.
In the meantime, should anyone construct one of these etches an article would be appreciated (as Russ Garner will not be tackling them until September 2008 and would like to know any pros and cons in advance).
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