Build - Connoisseur Bolster B

I'm going to change the way specific builds are published (assuming Plan A works), in that each build will have it's own blog which get updated as things move along rather than just posting a new blog each time. That's the idea anyway...

So, the next project starting (there's others going along in parallel, mostly waiting for parts or transfers) is a Connoisseur models BR bolster B. Folding the body up required reverting to the bending bars due to the small lip on the top of the sides making access with the Hold And Fold impossible. As always with bogie wagons, the sole bars require some care to fold up (after punching rivets), but all went well. Attaching the plates for the load rings is half done - very fiddly!

The sole bars fitted and load loops added. All is still square which bodes well. 

I don't usually go off piste with Connoisseur kits, but I've done a couple of mods to the BEV. The first is buffers, the wagons later on in life seem to have acquired Oleo buffers which means I can fit internally sprung ones which is nice. The second is the vacuum pipes and dummy. The supplied ones are very nice, but perhaps a tad oversize. To this end I've fitted parts from the MMP goods wagon accessory kit, sadly no longer available. The springs are obtainable from Slaters, but the dummy and pipe connectors - well, I've got a few in stock. 

The buffers aren't fixed and the vac pipe needs tweaking (that's why I take photos), but this is the general idea. I wish the wheels would arrive...

With wheels arrived, and having had a nice clean up with Bar Keepers Friend, the BEV enters my hi-tec spray booth for priming.

The underneath of the BEV good detail without going OTT.