QUOTE (34C @ 17 Aug 2007, 10:15)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>If you enjoy such adaptions (I do too!) then let the forum know how it works out. But bear in mind that Bachmann are replacing all their split chassis mechs, and it must be likely that the Ivatt 2MTT will get this treatment not too far into the future.
Believe it or not, there is no necessity to remove the circlip, which I agree is a very difficult component to return to the crankpin. In converting numerous outside valve gear split chassis models to DCC, it has always proved possible to drop the wheelsets sufficiently far out of the chassis to get the halves apart
just enough for access to attach wires to the motor terminals. A sort of minimal disassembly is what I aim at.
When it is necessary to remove the wheelset, (usually to enable a cutting operation when modifying a chassis block) my practise is to remove the cylinders and motion brackets from the chassis. These are held on with an 'Evostick' type adhesive, and in the case of the motion bracket also a small cross-head screw. Restoring these to the chassis with a little contact adhesive like Evostick is simplicity compared to fiddling with the circlip.
I realize that Bachmann are redoing the Scots etc. and inevitably will re-release the 2-6-2T...but when? Thats the question. Of course, IAW Sods Law, as soon as I get mine finished they will announce. Still its likely to be a couple of years off. I already got myself a second model and expect to start soon. I need a Push Pull service.
I followed the Phil Grainger instructions in Model Rail, Sept 2000. There is considerable surgery required to make space for the chip so I guess the risk of damage is pretty high if you don't fully disassemble. Phil's instructions didn't provide much guidance for getting the thing back together. Ah well, we live and learn.
This forum is going to be a great resource for future projects and I hope I can give back.