Got Mack?

My Mack CH613 dump trucks and Cornhusker pups arrived the other day, and I have a complete pair in primer now.  This Mack is a new truck model for me, and already one of my favorites.  A tractor version of this truck is already on Shapeways, and I am looking to order a test model very soon.  The only difference in the cab is that I added air horns to the tractor.  This detail I omitted on the dump truck version.  I also have a sleeper version that is still in design.

The hitch plate on my dump trucks matches up nicely to the tongue on the pup trailer.  It's only a simulated 5" ball hitch, but it is none the less an operating hitch on my N scale model.  The pup trailer shown here is the spread axle version, and I also have a triple axle version in the set.

I am most pleased with the printed "MACK" in the grill.  These white primered models don't photograph the best, but I was anxious to share them.  Soon they will be ready for a construction site after I get them painted.

My 3D Printing Addiction - 7 Months in the Making

It's hard to believe that I began dabbling in 3d printing only about 7 months ago.  Since then I have learned a wealth of information, and have a sizable number of models designed, printed, and even finished.  Shapeways has been a great company to work with, and while there have been some challenges, I am hopeful that other companies will follow their lead, and offer similar services.  This should only improve pricing and quality in the future, which is something I look forward to.  In addition, the ability to not only print my own designs for myself, but also make my designs available to others is outstanding.  Without a service like this, I doubt I would have the time or the desire to order models myself, and then make them available to others, either through ebay or other means.  Just the thought of that seems to take much of the fun out my hobby.  To that point, I remind myself often that this is a hobby, and if at any time it becomes not fun, then I know I need to refocus.  I have already felt the burden of neglect for my layout project, but building trucks has been fun, and needed.

To date, I have sold over 100 models, and I appreciate everyone's support and correspondence.  Shapeways is not cheap, and while I have no control over that, I am hopeful that the ability to buy a popular N scale model that never before existed outweighs the price tag.  Again, I am hopeful that other competitors jump into this space and offer services at the same or better quality for less price.  I will keep looking for alternatives for this reason.

I will continue to work on new designs, and focus on trucks and trailers into the foreseeable future.  I think there is enough need there to focus my attention for the next few years.  Additionally, I could spend a considerable amount of time just making variations and accessories for the models I already have, such as sleepers, etc.

Thanks again for your support, comments, and feedback.  I am looking forward to seeing some of those 100 models in finished form.

http://www.shapeways.com/shops/NScaleAddict

Dump Trucks and Pup Trailers Arrived!

My first pair of dump trucks and pup trailers arrived today.  I soaked them for a few hours in solvent, scrubbed with a toothbrush and paste, and shot a coat of primer on everything except the wheels.  So far, the results are what I expected.  More to come.

50' Spread Axle Wilson Grain Trailer - Finally, Some Progress Worth Sharing

I feel embarrassed that I haven't finished a 50' Wilson Grain trailer, especially since these were not far behind my very first 43' Wilson grain trailer design.  I was able to make some progress on a spread axle 50' version, and this time I decided to paint the outside skin with black.  Although white is most common, black trailers are also common, and look nice matched with a well painted tractor.

Still needs DOT striping and details, but I wanted to share since I feel a sense of accomplishment along with my embarrassment in getting this far.

Mack CH613 - Dump Truck

Here is a 3D rendering of my Mack CH613 truck cab.  I am going to order the first pair as dump trucks, using my Cornhusker 600 dump boxes.  I can easily design a day cab tractor, and I also have a sleeper very near completion for a Rawhide edition tractor.

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day to all.  I had a great day with the family, and am ready to hit the pillow before the loud stuff starts to crank up.

I am still waiting for my dump boxes and pup trailer from Shapeways which should be on their way to me any day now.  In the meantime, I have lots of trucks to finish.  The hard part now is choosing which colors to use.

Here are some projects in various stages of completion.  I finished my second Showcase Miniatures Kenworth T600, and also finished a C in C Chevy, which is ready for a trailer of some sort. As you can see, I have many other cabs in primer.  Not pictured is the pile of frames and wheels that need finishing too.

Here are a few close ups of my Peterbilt 379 tractor.  In the near future I hope to design a few different sizes of sleepers, headache rack for daycabs, and maybe a grill guard.  The options are endless.

Here are a couple photos of trucks that I am designing next.  A Mack 613 daycab and sleeper version.  Also a Peterbilt 389.  Hopefully in a couple weeks I'll have a file ready to upload to Shapeways.

Trail King Bottom Dump Trailer - In the Desert

I recently received a set of photos from a close friend of mine that has about as deep an addiction for N scale as I do.  I had sent him a pair of unfinished bottom dump trailers, and he was kind enough to allow me to share his work on my blog. The desert layout makes a great backdrop.