HOn30 18' Skeleton Log Car

Here is a simple model of a narrow gauge skeleton log car. This model was designed to be printed on an FDM printer with a standard 0.4 mm nozzle and 0.12 mm layer height and utilizes Micro Trains trucks, pins, and 1015 couplers.

Tips for printing:

Print 1 frame and print 2 sets of log bunks and tie straps (optional). I recommend printing the frame upside down, the tie straps right side up, and the log bunks on their sides. You can use support under the notches on the frame, but if you don’t just a little clean up with some sandpaper works just as well.

Assembly:

What you’ll need: Printed components, couplers, trucks and their pins, super glue, small file or sand paper (just in case of fitment issues), paint, and any additional detail parts you want to add.

I like to start by inserting the pins into the frame, then pulling them back out to test the holes and prime them for the truck installation later. If you’re using Micro Trains trucks, use the 2 pins that are on a sprue by themselves, the pin with the adapter and washer is slightly smaller and doesn’t fit tightly. Also, if the pins have any flashing on their ends sand this off to ensure they seat fully. Next add the log bunks to the frame, they should sit neatly down in the notches on the frame, glue these in place with a drop of super glue. If find it is best to paint the tie plates before installing them, a little trick is to stick them to some masking tape to hold them while painting. To add the tie plates (which is optional) glue the long section to the end of the frame with a drop of superglue, once the long side is dry add a drop of glue to the short end and stretch the straps over the log bunk gluing the short end to the frame. If you want the straps to lay flatter, you can gently bend them with tweezers or needle nose pliers prior to gluing. Next add the trucks, I like to use Micro Trains Arch Bars for a more prototypical look but you can use whatever suits you the best. Finally add the couplers into the pockets on the ends of the frame. I used M1 x 5mm self-tapping screws to attach my couplers.

There are also pockets on the underside of the frame for adding weight. Since these cars are so light I highly recommend adding weight and using metal wheels to help hold them on the rails better.

Final notes:

Both this model and the Wood Side Dump Cars were suggested by fellow modeler Steveisgr8 and I appreciate the feedback and ideas!

The frame is designed to use Micro Trains 1015 couplers, but any equivalent coupler could be used including Atlas Accumate and McHenry couplers. If there is an interest, I can model a hook and loop OO9 style coupler as well.

If you have any comments, questions, suggestions, or funny remarks feel free to reach out to me. As always, I hope to be sharing more of my models in the future and if you have any suggestions for models you’d like to see in HOn30 let me know.

Best Regards,

Dr. Fixet