Builder/Type: Ruston & Hornsby 20DL
Works number/year built: 235654/1946
Previous bases: New to Elsham Lime Co; Barrow Haven Tile works, Lincs; Abbey Light Railway; Richmond Light Railway.
Notes on the prototype: Restored to operation in the 00’s and a firm favourite of the fleet ever since. It was relatively easy to hand-start (no electric start fitted), very easy to drive and very powerful. It had air brakes and dual tone air horns fitted for use on the passenger train, which is was easily capable of. The ability to drive it from walking alongside, and it being very easy to drive, made it the ideal loco to allow selected visitors to have a drive on in the yard, and many did.
Notes on the model: When we changed CAD system at PECO I had trouble ‘clicking’ with the new software. As a training exercise I decided to try to model the Little Ruston, using a prototype drawing for dimensions. During this, the system did ‘click’ for me, and I have never looked back! The resultant 3D CAD model was printed for me by Chris Ward, using a KBscale CH01 chassis kit. A few years later Chris upgraded his 3D printer, so I revisited the CAD to add more detail and had a new print done on the new printer with it’s higher resolution and better surface finish. After painting and painstakingly lining it with Fox transfers (each straight and each corner is a separate transfer!) the chassis was transferred to the new body. Originally I had attempted to model a driver as part of the print. This was moderately successful, although he looked like a 70’s robot up close. When I had the chance to be scanned by Modelu I chose the rather unique Ruston driving position so the print of myself could be used on the 20DL to replace the tin man. As I was scanned I had to replicate the Ruston’s driving position – 10 years since I last drove the prototype! Luckily I got it nearly bang-on, and am very pleased with the result.
