QMC Car Wagon

The QMC car wagons were converted in 1963 from the earlier QMB wagons.  The WMB's were used to carry car bodies only, which were fully assembled in local (WA) factories, whereas the QMC's and later QMD's carried complete cars.  Photos indicate that the wagons were mainly used between Kalgoorlie and Perth and were often included on the Westland passenger train as well as freight trains.

The narrow gauge car wagons were made redundant after the standard gauge trains started running right through to Perth, and some were converted to QMG long, bulkhead flat wagons between 1970 and 1973.

At 70 feet (in the old measure), this series of wagons was the longest of all narrow gauge wagons.  The WA Wagon Pages have further information on the prototype wagons

As no detailed drawings appear to have survived for these wagons, the QMC model is based on a simple outline drawing and photos, although detailed photos are also scarce.  One of the few photos to show details of the wagon is in the Weston Langford collection although this may actually be a QMD wagon which had fork lift pockets on the upper deck which consisted of four separate panels.  A photo of the later QMG wagon confirmed the overall structure of the steel truss underframe.  The outline drawing indicates there were only ever 2 QMC's but there were a maximum of 23 of the very similar QMD's in the late 1960's.

Because of its length, the model is made in two sections as the standard 3D printers could not make it in one piece.  When fitted with the recommended Steam Era Models passenger bogies (available from Railwest Models), it will negotiate curves down to 700 mm radius.  Kadee long shank couplers are also recommended to allow sufficient coupler swing.  The model does have considerable overhang, particularly on the inside of a curve, so increased clearances may be required for curved platforms and other structures.

The model cars depicted in the photo by are Biante and DDA Collectibles.  Despite being 1/64 scale, the model EH Holdens were about 0.5 mm too high to fit in the lower deck, so four of the DDA cars were "lowered" by dismantling them and cutting deeper slots in the plastic chassis for the axles.

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FD 4-wheel Louvre Van

The FD vans were very common on the WAGR system, with a total of 1000 being built between 1953 and 1955.  Most of the class remained in use until the 1980's.  Refer to the WAGR Wagon Pages for more information on the prototype.

FD Models, unpainted and painted (except for the roof)

The model depicts the van in "as delivered" condition.  Various modifications were carried out during the life of the FD vans and Marbelup Models may produced later versions if there is sufficient demand.

The photo below, from Rail Heritage WA, shows an FD van in close to original condition.

The body of the FD has been printed in one piece.  The print orientation has been chosen to optimise the definition of the louvres, which will result in some visible stepping on the roof, which can be smoothed off by scraping and/or sanding.  As well, the modeller will be required to remove the support materials from the 3D printing process, and add various details such as handrails, from brass wire (not supplied) as well as W-irons, wheels and couplers.  For more information, please refer to the Construction Tips.

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DC 4-wheel Van

Like the FD's, DC's were very common on the WAGR system, with over 700 being built between 1953 and 1954.  Most of the class remained in use until the late 1980's, primarily carrying grain which was loaded and unloaded by roof hatches and end doors, respectively.  Refer to the WAGR Wagon Pages for more information on the prototype.

The model depicts the van in "as delivered" condition.  An optional version is available with "flat" diagonal braces on the sides.

Various other modifications were carried out during the life of the DC vans, including replacement of sections of timber paneling with plywood.  Marbelup Models may produced later versions if there is sufficient demand.

The photos below, from Rail Heritage WA, shows a DC van in close to original condition and one with the "flat" diagonal braces.

The body of the DC has been printed in two pieces, with a vertical join which is conveniently hidden by the roofwalk.  The print orientation has been chosen to produce a smooth surface on the curved roof which will require minimal finishing.  The modeller will be required to remove the support materials from the 3D printing process, and add various details such as handrails, from brass wire (not supplied) as well as W-irons, wheels and couplers.

The roofwalk for the DC has also been produced on its own, for use with kit or scratchbuilt DC models.

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CXB 4-wheel Sheep Wagon

CXB Sheep Wagon after added detailing and painting

The 3D-printed model includes:

• Floor detail include double floors on upper and lower decks
• Roof including rain strips and downpipes
• Detailed axleboxes and springs
• Brake shoes and vacuum brake cylinder 
• Vacuum brake hoses
• Brake lever
• Shunter's step

Most of the photos show the model after detailing, but prior to painting.  The grey parts are produced by the 3D printing process.  As always, click on any of the photos to zoom in.

To complete the model, the modeller will be required to add:

• Wheels (12 mm diameter 4-hole or disc, 26 mm axle length)
• Etched brass W-irons (available from Railwest models).
• Brass bearings (e.g. North Yard 2 mm diameter, pinpoint)
• Couplers and fixing screws (e.g. 2-56). Recommended couplers are Kadee #158 with #262 draft gear boxes.  Note that the #242 draft gear boxes, supplied with the #158 couplers, have a different mounting hole location and are also too wide to clear the brake pipe.  If preferred, Kadee #148 couplers can be used with the "full size" knuckle rather than the "scale" knuckle.  Both the #148 and #158 are "Whisker" couplers.
• Self tapping screws for fixing body and W-irons - 1 mm x 3 mm pan head, 6 required per wagon. (DCC Concepts DCS-PH103).
• Brass wire (0.4 mm) for horizontal rods in body sides and doors, upper door guide rods, end handrails, and brake rod.  3 lengths are required per wagon.
• Glue, paint, decals, etc.

The model consists of two unequal "halves", with a vertical join running end to end.  This will allow access to the interior for painting and adding a load of sheep, if desired.

The two sections are 3D-printed on their sides, which results in a good surface finish on the roof and outside surfaces.

For help with assembly, see the CXB Construction Tips.  For information on the prototype CXB's, see the WA Wagon Pages.

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RA Class Diesel

Here you will find information on the 3D Printed parts designed by Marbelup Models which will allow a model railway enthusiast to build their own model of a WAGR RA class diesel in Sn3½ scale (i.e. 1/64 scale, 16.5 mm gauge).

The Marbelup Models 3D-printed model of the RA class diesel is based on the existing design for the R class.  These pictures represent a composite rendering of the RA loco.  

The RA is about 16 mm (in S scale) longer than the R class.  The short hood is longer, as is the narrow section of the long hood immediately behind the cab.  The fuel tank is also longer, and the RA does not have the dynamic brake grilles in the end and top of the long hood.  The RA also has different headlights, with the twin lights being mounted side by side rather than vertically.

The RA uses the same bogie mechanisms and motor as the R class, and these are available from Hollywood Foundry.

All of the major parts for the RA class have been designed to be produced as 3D printed plastic parts, including:

• Loco Body
• Chassis
• Bogies
• Fuel Tank

The 3D printed parts have been designed based on plans and photographs of the RA class locomotives "as delivered" in 1971-72.  As with many locomotives, various modifications were carried out over their life.

In addition to the 3D-printed parts, the modeller must obtain a number of other parts in order to complete the locomotive.  Please refer to the Assembly Tips for a list of the parts required, and helpful tips.

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WAGR R Class Diesel

Photo of assembled model with added details, painting and decals.

Here you will find information of the 3D Printed parts designed by Marbelup Models which will allow a model railway enthusiast to build their own model of a WAGR R class diesel in Sn3½ scale (i.e. 1/64 scale, 16.5 mm gauge).

Marbelup Models has also developed 3D-printed model of the RA class diesel.  The RA is about 16 mm (in S scale) longer than the R class.  The short hood is longer, as is the narrow section of the long hood immediately behind the cab.  The fuel tank is also longer, and the RA does not have the dynamic brake grilles in the end and top of the long hood.  The RA also has different headlights, with the twin lights being mounted side by side rather than vertically.

All of the major parts for the R class have been designed to be produced as 3D printed plastic parts, including:

• Loco Body
• Chassis
• Bogies
• Fuel Tank

The 3D printed parts have been designed based on plans and photographs of the R class locomotives "as delivered" in 1968.  As with many locomotives, various modifications were carried out over their life.

In addition to the 3D-printed parts, the modeller must obtain a number of other parts in order to complete the locomotive.  Please refer to the Assembly Tips for a list of the parts required, and helpful tips.

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D/DA Class Diesel

DA (left) and D Class Test Models

First Test Print of D Class

Marbelup Models has finished the 3D design for a WAGR/Westrail D class diesel.  Test prints of all the 3D-printed parts have now arrived, and the test model has been assembled complete with Hollywood Foundry mechanism. The 3D design took approx 80 hours.

Thanks to Gav and Rob for helping out with photos and other prototype information.

The 3D design for the DA has also been completed.  The DA doesn't have dynamic brakes, so the short hood is fairly plain and also slightly lower.  The fuel tank is also shorter.  Test prints for the DA arrived on 19 December.

First Test Print of DA Class

Fuel Tanks - DA (left) and D (right)

D Fuel Tank with 7 layers of lead sheet installed.  166 grams in total.
Top 2 layers have a gap in the centre to clear the motor.

Test prints of D Class underframe and fuel tank
"Shop" bogies are dummies originally made for RA.  "Motor" is also a dummy.

The present models represents the D and DA class from delivery in 1971/1972 until the Westrail era.  In the late Westrail era (late 1990's), some of the DA locos were rebuilt into DAZ class.  Visible alterations included different cab windows, changes to various grilles on the body, and different brake cylinders on the bogies (on some locos).  Marbelup Models plans to produce a DAZ version as well.

Bogie Rendering

The D class uses a custom made drive mechanism from Hollywood Foundry.  Hollywood Foundry don't have the correct size wheels (15.7 mm) in their normal range, but the wheels are available from Northyard in New Zealand.  The minimum operating radius is 600 mm.

For DCC sound, the underframe includes mounting for a speaker.  The specific engine sound -EMD 645 Non-Turbo - is available in the Tsunami range of sound decoders from Soundtraxx.

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What's In the Works

This page provides a sneak preview of projects currently in development or being contemplated.

WAGR/Westrail XW Grain Hopper

The XW (and later variations) were the most numerous grain hoppers on the WAGR/Westrail narrow gauge lines and were introduced in 1972.

Project Status: Design is progressing for Sn3½ version only.

WAGR QU Flat Wagon

The QU's were the first "modern" flat wagon on the narrow gauge, dating from 1963.  Unusually, they were painted black initially and then yellow.

Project Status: Photos and measurements taken of stored wagons at Pemberton.  3D design not started.

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BHP Iron Ore Cars HO Scale

Marbelup Models has developed HO scale 3D-printed models of 4 different types of ore cars as used by BHP Iron Ore in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

The 4 versions are:

• "Comeng" - built 1969-1982
• "Goninans tapered floor" - built 1997-1998
• "Goninans flat floor" - built 1999-2000
• "Golynx" - built 2001-2003 approx.

The Comeng ore cars are very similar to the original Oroville cars imported from the US at the start of the Mt Newman Mining operation in the 1960's.  For more information and photos of the prototype wagons, see the Pilbara Railways web site.

"Comeng" ore car (computer rendering)

"Goninans tapered floor" ore car (computer rendering)

All of the ore cars are supplied as "body only", the only other parts included are Kadee #262 coupler boxes.  The modeller must supply and fit bogies and couplers, as well as detail items such as brake wheel, air hoses, handrails, etc.  The level of detail is optional, to some extent, depending on the modeller's preferences.

The models accept Kadee #148 or #158 whisker couplers.  These are available from Hobby shops in bulk packs of couplers only, in addition to the usual packs of 2-pairs of couplers with boxes.

As an option, the models will also accept Glatzl rotary couplers (at one end) which are available from the US through Sergent Engineering.  Sergent also sell matching dummy couplers which work well with the Glatzl rotary couplers.  Both the Glatzl rotary and dummy couplers will mate with Kadee "scale head" couplers but will not couple or uncouple automatically.  A simple modification is required to the Glatzl rotary couplers prior to installation, as they intended to directly fit onto a specific US coal car which has different dimensions to the BHP ore cars.

Left: "Goninans flat floor" in Polyamide material. Right: "Golynx" car in Prime Grey material. (Click on any photo to see enlarged version.)

WW Wheat Wagon (Standard Gauge, HO Scale)

Photo of test model.

The WAGR/Westrail WW standard gauge wheat wagon entered service in 1966 and formed the mainstay of the standard gauge grain fleet for over 45 years until Cooperative Bulk Handling introduced their own locomotives and rollingstock in 2012.  They were affectionately known as "Willie Weeties".  

The Marbelup Models WW consists of a 1-piece 3D-printed body and an etched brass roofwalk which incorporate the ladders and handrails as a "fold-up" assembly (no soldering required).  Additional etched brass parts are also included for the corner steps and brake wheel.

WW with L class (loco by Haskell Models)

For prototype information, please refer to the WA Wagon Pages.

The later version with air-operated roof hatch and no roofwalks, i.e. the AGWY and AGSY, has also been produced.  The difference between the prototype AGWY and AGSY relates to improved seals on the discharge hatches (AGSY) to allow use with canola, which is finer than other grains.  The model can represent either version.  Some WW's also had the improved seals fitted and were coded WWS.

The AGWY/AGSY has an extra air cylinder on the end opposite the brake wheel, in connection with the air-operated roof hatch.

Side of AGWY/AGSY showing runners for air-operated roof hatch.

Opposite side of AGWY/AGSY.

Detail on brake wheel end of AGWY/AGSY.

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WSH/XM Ballast Hopper

Unpainted test model of WSH ballast hopper in HO scale.
Added details from brass wire, etc.

The WSH ballast hoppers were built in 1965 and were used on construction of the WAGR standard gauge lines.  Initially, all 45 wagons were standard gauge.

In 1970, 15 of the wagons were converted to narrow gauge and reclassified as XM, and are still in use in WA on the narrow gauge system.

In 1975/6, all of the remaining 30 WSH's were sold to Commonwealth Railways (later Australian National) and reclassified as AHVY.

From around 1987, most of the AHVY wagons were transferred to Tasmania, converted to narrow gauge and reclassified ZI, later being fitted with extended sides and roof and becoming class HD.

Unpainted test model of XM ballast hopper in Sn3½ scale.
(No added details at this stage.)

Please refer to the WA Wagon Pages for more information on the prototype WSH or XM wagons.  There are also several photos at the Rail Heritage WA web site.  Hint: Search for "WSH" or "XM" under "loco - vehicle class".

There are quite a few photos of WSM's on the Weston Langford site (The link provided should search for "ballast" in Western Australia.)

Photo of WSH in almost pristine condition at work on construction of the WAGR
standard gauge project in November 1965. (From Weston Langford collection)

For details of history under CR/AN ownership see the Comrails and Rail Tasmania web sites.

The Marbelup Models "kit" for the WSH/XM consists of a one-piece 3D-printed body.  Some cleanup will probably be required to remove the support structures which are required during the 3D printing process.  Typically, this takes about 30 minutes.  The purchaser must also obtain, separately, bogies, couplers, fixing screws, brass wire (for details such as handrails), paint and decals.  Styrene strip is also required for the braces across the top of the hopper.

For more information, please refer to the assembly tips.

Close-up of WSH model showing added details (HO scale)

The WAGR conversion to narrow gauge was unusual in that the standard gauge bogies were retained and simply fitted with narrow gauge wheelsets, resulting in a "wide" look to the bogies.  Double sets of brake blocks were fitted to facilitate rapid gauge conversion if required.  The couplers also remained at the standard gauge height, so a special "gooseneck" coupler shank was fitted to the end wagons in a rake to couple to other narrow gauge wagons.

XM model in Sn3½ scale with 3D-printed bogies.

Rail Heritage WA photo of XM hoppers, showing they didn't always operate as a solid consist.

To obtain the correct bogie appearance for the XM Sn3½ model, Marbelup Models has designed 3D-printed bogies representing the original standard gauge bogies.  Larger than normal, 14 mm diameter, wheelsets to suit are available from Hollywood Foundry.

The "special" bogies are not required for the Tasmanian ZI version, as conventional narrow gauge bogies were used and the wagons were "lowered" to match the coupler height of other narrow gauge wagons.

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WOB Iron Ore Wagon

WOB Iron Ore Wagon (Standard Gauge, HO Scale)

The 25 WOB iron ore wagons entered service in 1974.  WAGR obtained the wagons, which were brand new and built by Comeng for Mt Newman Mining Company (now BHP Iron Ore) to replace a number of the existing WO and WOA wagons which were damaged in derailments.  As built, the wagons were considerably higher and were cut down at Midland Workshops to be compatible with the other WAGR standard gauge iron ore wagons. For more information on the prototype, refer to the WA Wagon Pages.

This WAGR publicity photo shows the entire fleet of 25 WOB's when brand new.  The photo is on display at the Rail Heritage WA museum but not available on their web site.

The WOB's were originally used to carry iron ore from Koolyanobbing to Kwinana, this iron ore traffic being the principal economic justification for the WAGR standard gauge rail project of the late 1960's.  Most, if not all, of the WOB's are still in service but the iron ore from Koolyanobbing is now railed to Esperance and exported from there.

One of many photos of WOB's at pilbararailways.com.au

In 1977/8, fifteen of the wagons were converted to WSM ballast hoppers which involved fitting bottom discharge doors, internal slope sheets and welding on part of the tops which had been previously cut off.  Approx. 20 years later, the ones converted to ballast hoppers were converted back to iron ore wagons, although the converted wagons retain some remnants of the bottom discharge doors and have a different arrangement of air brake cylinders compared to the 10 unconverted wagons.  The model depicts the unconverted version.  

The Marbelup Models WOB wagon consists of a 1-piece 3D-printed body.  To complete the model, the purchaser must add bogies, couplers, and some small detail items.  The model is designed to accommodate Kadee HO whisker couplers (in #262 draft gear boxes) but one end can also be fitted with a rotary coupler, as per the prototype, to allow the possibility of unloading using a rotary car dumper (tippler).  HO scale rotary couplers are made by Glatzl and are available from Sergent Engineering in the USA, together with matching dummy couplers.

The bogies shown in the model photos are from Kadee, part number #569.  These bogies are made from a high-density plastic and weigh almost as much as metal bogies, thus adding some weight to the wagon.  Kadee also offer #1569 bogies which are identical apart from being fitted with finer Code 88 wheelsets.

The following is a list of parts required to complete the WOB wagon:

• 1 pair Kadee #569 or #1569 bogies
• 2 x Kadee Whisker couplers e.g. #148 (standard head) or #158 (scale head)
• 2 x Kadee #262 draft gear boxes (20 per pack)
• 2 x Detail Associates #6206 air hoses (6 per pack)
• 1 x Handbrake wheel - e.g. Model etch ME7 or ME47
• Handrail and uncoupling lever - formed from 0.4 mm brass wire
• Paint and decals
• Fixing screws for couplers and bogies e.g. 2-56.

For rotary coupler operation, the following parts are needed instead of the Kadee couplers listed above:

• 1 x Glatzl rotary coupler GLTZR (available in packs of 3 from Sergent Engineering)
• 1 x Glatzl dummy (economy) coupler GLTZ ((available in packs of 3 from Sergent Engineering)
• 1 x Kadee #262 draft gear box

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