Install new signals
Modify cassette shelf arms
Modify the coal truck
Nameboard?
Just Stephen and Geoff this week. As the layout had been put away the previous week, just the board required to fit the new signals was clamped upright to the trestles. Stephen fitted the new 5-way socket and wired it into the signal connector strip.
The two track signals were fitted into the pre-drilled holes and wires run back to the connector. The signal comprises a flashing light (1.8mmdia. LED) with a black surround. (The stop sign has yet to be fitted). The other signal is beside the main line, beyond the bridge mouth.
The next board was set-up and the new socket fitted. The frame signal (LED on top of a pole) was fitted, together with the sound unit (ringing bell), activation relay and 5v power supply. The speaker will be fitted in position after testing.
After extra wires were added to the loom, the layout was put up and the signals tested. The lights worked well, but the bell sound was disappointing. The sound quality is nowhere as good as the generator engine, but Stephen had been unable to improve it any more. The conclusion was that either the unit was defective, or the frequency range simply didn't suit the 'inexpensive' sound recorder/player. Trials with speaker mounts will be carried out, but at least we had some sound.
Due to the addition of the backscene and pipe clips for the lighting poles, the brackets for the cassette shelf had to be extended by drilling new pivot holes, which Geoff carried out while access was available.
Stephen and Geoff also discussed the design of a name board. Stephen subsequently circulated a list of possible features/criteria and created a photo mock-up, for discussion. Designs and discussions ensued...
