Glenn Holland

Thanks!

Thank you both!

Thank you!

Thank you! The design works well - I aim to use a similar approach in a few more things I'd like to build eventually.

Thank you! I haven't displayed with PennLUG since before I built 763, but there is plenty of video of the model on Youtube. Thank you, Thorsten! Thank you! I think the 22-RA tenders that survive (behind 587 and 624 if I'm not mistaken) are very close but not identical to the 700's tenders. Even still, thank you!

"Homecoming" When I built my first Nickel Plate Berkshire, I imagined having at least one more. A model of a locomotive like this is hard to be content with only having one of. Of course, having since served in a conductor's uniform behind both 765 and SD-9 358, I was further tempted to model what I've experienced. Modeling 765 would certainly scratch an itch I have, but until a few more things fall into place, that's something I'll hold off on for now. Truthfully, I had already decided on which of the remaining 79 Nickel Plate 700's I would represent in my fleet. An S-1 would make for a nice change. These were built across two orders by Lima in 1942 and 1943 in one batch of 15 and one of 10, respectively. The first 15 made up Lima order 1160 and were the first batch of berkshires built by Lima for the Nickel Plate. 725 was a part of this order. Builder's no. 7870 and delivered July 23, 1942. 725 featured a built-up engine frame as opposed to the single-piece cast engine beds found on the S-2, for example. The S-1's were effectively copies of the earlier S class and were similarly regarded as rough-riding. 725, as far as I have found, was a bit of a wanderer. I've seen photos of it in Brewster, Peoria, and I own one excellent shot of the locomotive that's marked as having been taken in Cleveland. No matter where it ran, 725 performed well enough for it to be among the last remaining berkshires on the Road. "Berkshires of the Nickel Plate Road" notes 725 as having been stored serviceable at Brewster, Ohio by July 16, 1958 and officially retired in August 1960. 725 was sold for scrap in August 1963, making it the third to last S-1 to survive, although I believe at least its whistle is still around somewhere. I generally model what I have seen or experienced in person. 725 was gone before my father was even born, but still, I found a way to connect with it, naturally via the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum. If you walk through along the tour path from stall 6 towards stall 1, you'll find a wall near the corner to the backshop which features some old papers clipped to the board. One of these papers is an original daily inspection form for Nickel Plate 725. My model is mechanically identical to my proven 763. The differences between the two engines are cosmetic only, and minor: - plain journal bearings on 725 - rods and valve gear correct for an S-1 - a "gables" style number board (3D printed) on 725 which represents a shelf-less headlight mounting - four sanding lines instead of six - brass whistle and bell This is the first time I've built a second copy of something at a later date. I may very well build one more, which may be my last Berkshire, but that's not something I'm going to focus on just yet. There's always plenty of projects demanding attention, not to mention the rest of life. Photo album: Brief video here: As always, thanks for reading. Glenn

Richard and Ashley are good friends of mine; I'm glad for this news to break. They have a lot of very strong ideas for both maintaining and growing the brand and product line. Getting R120's back in stock was a piece of the deal, I believe. Definitely a good move for BrickTracks and the community.

Much appreciated. I usually say the research phase is my favorite part of any project - certainly true here! But I'm always left wanting "just one more photograph" of detail X, Y, and Z! Thank you, glad you like it! It's a great movie if you enjoy trains or other movies like The Dirty Dozen. Glad you like it.

Thank you! It certainly looks good now that it's finally together. You should! Thanks very much!

Thank you! Thank you! The 90-ton mikados are intersting locomotives, built generally for logging service. 19's drivers are only 48" in diameter. Glad you like it! Thank you very much! Each piece is unique and contribute wonderfully to the overall train.

Very glad you like it. I built these models at "8-wide". Thanks very much!

Certainly my favorite movie as well - it's stuck with me for quite a while! The rest is definitely on the way, slowly but surely. Research is probably my favorite part of every model project, but I've been hoping to compile everything into some sort of published work eventually... and I do mean eventually. But there's a lot to show - photos, information. etc. It's all fascinating. Thanks very much! These are uniformly 8-wide. Very pleased with performance as well, 19 should be capable of the extra cars that remain! It's such a neat story to tell when you have the full train you're representing. Glad you like it.

"The Local" Long before I published my model of Oregon Pacific & Eastern 2-8-2 no. 19 in December 2022, I'd been working on an appropriate set of cars to go behind it. Those who remember Robert Aldrich's 1973 film "Emperor of the North" may remember some of the freight cars that were used behind 19 for the entirety of the film. Naturally, I had to model these in addition to 19 itself. Any other combination of cars would not be fitting. Research, I've always said, is one of my favorite parts of modeling. Having a goal in mind and being forced (forced? that makes it sound like a bad thing!) to dive into history and explore the most fine and minute details of a topic is something that I particularly enjoy with everything I model. The freight consist used behind 19 in Emperor of the North certainly forced me to pay attention to detail and explore threads of information I'd have never otherwise come across. Each piece has a unique part to play and blends together to create a visually appealing but commonplace style freight train from Depression Era America. What you see here is the "minimum" consist for 19. The freight train seen on screen changes a few times throughout the duration of the movie, and a small handful of the cars used are not represented here (at least not yet). This is "The Local" version, or the "Pre-Portland" version of that train, seen in this configuration from the first scene through the end of the opening title sequence. A short time on screen, but a legitimate representation nonetheless. Missing from this representation are as many as four cars used at different times - at minimum, 19 pulls five cars plus a caboose (seen here). At most, eight plus a caboose. Each car has been modeled with as much detail as I have been able to research - some creative license has to be taken in cases like this because the bulk of information I'd need to do a perfect job simply does not exist, and if it does, I have not found it even after more than seven years of research. Still, I'm perfectly happy with the results. There is little I can think to improve on the train at this point, though that may change as more information becomes available. Reaching this point has been years in the making. Through years of research, design, building, and redesign, I finally have an unquestionably appropriate train for 19. These (and the remaining few not yet built) will likely be the only cars to use behind 19 from now on. Anything else would not support the goal of properly representing "Emperor of the North" in Lego model form. More to come, eventually - but for now, I'm celebrating this milestone. More photos: Video: Thanks for reading.

A very impressive locomotive for sure. I had the pleasure of working behind 765 this past weekend - the photo run-by was quite an experience! Generic freight consists are always the way to go for superpower engines like these - just means I need more to have the proper variety! Thanks all. Very pleased with the way Shane's copy turned out.

I modeled Nickel Plate Road S-2 Berkshire #763 over most of 2022, and finally published it in December that year. Since then, my model of 763 has won me the Global Award for Best Steam Locomotive in the 2023 Brick Train Awards. It wasn't originally the plan in designing and modeling such an iconic locomotive (Nickel Plate Berkshires are nothing but iconic) but shortly before publishing the finished model, I gifted the digital version to a handful of friends in hopes that some of them may be crazy enough to build their own. The Advisory Mechanical Committee (AMC) design of 2-8-4 found its way onto a number of eastern US railroads, so even a small number of Lego Berkshire models (built to the same model pattern) would be spectacular to see, especially if they were to represent the different roads which rostered the AMC design. My friend Shane has since taken up that mantle and cemented his position as the first to do so with his model of Pere Marquette #1225. The Pere Marquette had 39 total Berkshires following the AMC pattern. 1225 was part of the second order which made up the N-1 class, and is one of two preserved examples, and the only one in operation out of Owosso, Michigan. Shane's original model of 1225 was also a Brick Train Awards winner - taking home the same Global win for Best Steam Locomotive in 2022. This was Shane's first steam model. Having seen it in person before its retirement and disassembly, I was definitely impressed with what Shane did. Unfortunately, and Shane can attest, it was never the top-performing engine one would expect an AMC Berkshire to be. Thankfully, this new model hits the mark. I was happy to gift my design to Shane. He did an excellent job assembling the model and changing necessary details to reflect 1225 specifically. Shane sent me the model in early June 2024 to look over in person and fine tune before Brickworld Chicago 2024. I'm confident that I've got the model running as smoothly as 763 - if it were my own, I'd be satisfied. Having these two models together, even briefly, has been quite gratifying and just plain awesome to see, though I'm excited to return 1225 into Shane's hands for his enjoyment. https://www.flickr.com/photos/41032663@N08/53788324316/in/dateposted/ That leaves me with 763 once again. As much as I do truly love 763, I think I need another Berkshire in my roster. More photos here: Short video here: Thanks for reading.

As I understand, a complication has developed with the R120 molds. They will be back, according to BrickTracks, but will take some time.

You are correct - motors connected by an axle, each with their own receiver. I have had no issues with mismatched speed or IR signals reaching one receiver but not the other. Both motors are connected to the same color output on each receiver. Works quite well for me. Thank you very much!

Thank you! You do make a compelling argument ;) Thank you very much!

Hi all - just getting back from a weekend convention without easy access to Eurobricks, so I'm now catching up on your wonderful replies. I have an idea for what would turn out to be a large diorama or layout module that would depict a very scenic coastal town... maybe one day I'll build it! Thanks Simon. Thank you! And most definitely. I was at the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show this past weekend and got some video of it running on the joint Lego layout there. I'll have that uploaded to YouTube hopefully soon. Thank you! Thanks!! So glad you like it. One of the fun things about modeling such a variety of prototypes is the new techniques that come with each build. The boiler was inspired directly by my 4-6-0 from 2021 but required extensive changes to accommodate the motorization and gears, but it worked out! The custom rods and valve gear always accentuate any model. The colorful details really help in the case of 470. Glad you like it. The details matter on any model and can make the difference between good and great in my opinion. Thomas, thank you very much. I'd say the overall effect is greater than the sum of its parts: rods and valve gear, intricate details, artwork, etc. combine for a profound effect on the viewer. I have tested this model over turnouts (switches) with no issue at all. These tests consisted of flying through a turnout at full speed and at slower speed with a train behind and I have not had any issues yet, even with the tight clearances on this model. Thank you! The pipework is always a little challenging.. it's impossible to get all of it at once and difficult to know what to omit in some cases. I'm glad it works out on 470. Thank you very much! I only with the ladder did not conceal as much of the road number on the back as it does, but I suppose it's unavoidable at some point. Thanks everyone for their kind words.

"Mascot of Maine" Compared to most of the other locomotives I've published most recently, this one is a bit of an outlier. It's not the hotshot superpower found on the Nickel Plate, it's not wartime power like the Mohawk, and it's not part of the Age of Steam collection. My love for 470 comes from elsewhere. Having been a New England resident for several years and having vacationed in most of those states, I've developed a soft spot for the region, especially the piney woods of Maine. I've also always enjoyed the idea of coastal railroading: a mix of maritime and railroad visuals produce interesting scenes. There's a concept for a layout module I've had for some time that would perfectly represent those thoughts.. Maybe someday I'll build it. I'm also drawn to the Maine Central and 470 specifically due to the preservation and claim to fame of the locomotive; 470 operated the last steam-powered passenger train on June 13, 1954 and is the largest preserved steam locomotive in New England and Maritime Canada. After sitting on display for over six decades, the non-profit New England Steam Corporation acquired the locomotive in 2015 and has since relocated it to a purpose-built structure where volunteers actively work to restore the locomotive to operating condition. Being a naturally good looking locomotive, not to mention the incredibly striking Maine Central "speed lettering" it carried, and being preserved and undergoing restoration wins 470 a spot in my heart. I began my model in early to mid 2021. I know, quite a while ago. Chronologically this locomotive was designed around the time I was building and completing Grey Ridge 26. Work progressed through September 2021, at which point I tested an assembled and functioning model (minus rods and artwork) on some track on my apartment floor. Tests were satisfactory; no major issues found. And then I let the project go for quite a while. In this incomplete state, 470 sat on my shelf until last year. One of the bigger challenges I faced was designing a satisfactory rod and valve gear package for this engine. The cylinder design necessitated some new thinking and part design which is perhaps the main reason why I only completed the model in January 2024. Some of the valve gear components required as many as four iterations until they performed as desired. I guess the take-home point is that I got there. Better late than never, right? I'm using a Power Functions L motor geared at a 1:1 ratio to XL.25 size drivers. Control comes from a Power Functions V2 IR receiver and power is a 7.4v battery from Tenergy - a staple of my newer locomotive designs. XL.25 wheels almost deserve a post in their own right. I initially started designing this engine with the more commonly available XL.5 wheels (right in between XL and XXL wheels). I quickly found that the driver wheelbase and proportions of the model were entirely wrong. So, I bit the bullet and opted to design a unique set of drivers at an intermediate size - essentially 1/2 a plate larger in diameter than an XL driver. This allows for the proper wheelbase dimension and better overall proportion, and the wheel is closer to scale as well. Overall, it's more effort, but worth the result. I'm satisfied with performance, having operated the engine running light on my floor for a couple hours and getting a full hour in a convention setting with a mid-sized train behind it. Even still, my goal from the start of this project has been to operate 470 with a powered baggage/RPO car to enable more prototypically long passenger trains. While it would be nice to have 470 handle an entire train alone, it wasn't practical to go with any alternatives - no more room in the boiler for an extra motor and the tender is too short to use train motor bogies. Compromise was made, but I'm far from unhappy. I've modeled 470 as it looked on its final revenue run on June 13, 1954. I think this is, bar none, the prettiest model I've made in recent memory. My favorite thing about this engine is the way it looks with the Maine Central logo, striping, and accents on the rods and wheels. An incredibly unique look for a star locomotive. All artwork was done by Cale Leiphart with some assistance and references from Richard Glueck. All artwork is decals printed by OKBrickWorks. Thank you all, particularly Mr. Glueck, for your assistance with this project. As always, I'm pleased to bring this one over the goal line. Having been in progress for several years now, it feels great to have this one complete and published for the public. Guess I need to design some passenger cars now. Full photo album: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBbRCB Video review: Thanks for reading.

I received my brick just in time to celebrate before the year ends. Thanks to the coordinators and judges as always, and wishing folks a happy new year.

The lack of motorization is a disappointment to say the least - I'm willing to eat my words on this issue. This is a more valid complaint than "why does it look so different?" Apparently those that hold the IP rights to the Orient Express name wanted emphasis on the train rather than the locomotive... completely reasonable. This is a licensed set, after all. It is indeed possible to make a locomotive that size which can handle several times more than those cars; I and several others can and have done it. I'm confident the community will find ways to modify to suit. I wonder what specific problems they had in design and testing. Edit: I am confident that when Lego says they tried, they really mean it. I was fortunate to hear Jamie Berard (who designed the Emerald Night) discuss the months of testing they did with that set. If they say it wasn't possible (especially considering the strict guidlines and rules they have for their products), then I am certainly willing to believe them. This is still a set I'd like to get, and I'd like to formally review it when possible. I remain excited.

Vilhelm22 is correct. All rods and valve gear are custom parts which I designed myself. They were printed through Shapeways service using Fine Detail Plastic. I should have mentioned the headlight visor is a similar story. Thank you Vilhelm22 for the compliment, as well! This bump to the front page comes at quite a convenient time. I'm honored to have received the award for "Best Steam Locomotive Model" in both the Americas and Global regions of the 2023 Brick Train Awards. I am surprised, to be honest, as there was some legitimate competition this year by several participants and I did not expect to win. Regardless, I am incredibly thankful. https://www.bricktrainawards.com/winners/brick-train-awards-2023/

Thanks all who have enjoyed the video. Lot of thoughts, lot of criticism (some fair, I'll give you that). I remain excited for the set and more trains from Lego in the future. Through the magic of your own creativity, you can do exactly that. ;)

Some thoughts... Firstly, we have to remember that this is a LEGO train set. This has to have widespread appeal, use a certain number of parts, and be consumable for the average parent who has never built a train before, let alone steam. Let's look at the locomotive: At first glance, it seems off. This is reasonable. It's very obvious that the engine in the promo image does not share much resemblance to the original Ideas locomotive. Remember - the original submission was modeled in a way that it could not operate on Lego track. The drivers were not actual train wheels. Lego has departed from the source material with good intentions in this case. The boiler looks a bit fat - it is, but I'm willing to bet that they have opted for a Powered Up motor tucked inside which will power the drivers, as opposed to the ever-common train motor bogie under the tender. This would mean the drivers are quartered and there is legitimate thought and effort that has gone into making this a respectable, operable locomotive. Also, take a look at the rods on this engine - Lego seems to have departed from the Technic Liftarms of the Emerald Night days, and even the Technic axles and connectors of the Disney Train and more recent Hogwarts Express. This is a huge win, assuming the assumptions are correct! Even if it's the same piece being used as the connecting rods as well as the main rods, Lego has produced a new train-specific piece. The tender seems less of an after thought than recent steam models. Of course it will likely be designed to house a battery box for those that want a running engine. Dark blue - this is perhaps the only thing I would change about the engine. Dark green seems to be much more common when someone thinks of a steam engine in front of the OE - Bavarian S 3/6 or perhaps a French 4-6-2 or 4-6-0. I'm wondering if the designer at Lego was inspired by the Bavarian S 3/5... regardless, a dark blue engine is still visually sharp. In all, the engine is adorable. I like it. The cars: TWO cars instead of one! And they're unique. AND appear to be 8 studs wide. More room for detail, and Lego takes advantage of it. The cars both have unique and interesting detail which make them feel like a nice place to be: the tiling in the lavatory, the tables and bar in the dining section... I like what Lego has gone for here. Figs - Looks like we get a solid assortment, including four train crew: engineer/fireman, conductor, porter, (or two porters), barmaid, and the remainder being passengers. Display track - in a similar vein to the Crocodile, Lego seems to offer a display track for those who enjoy displaying their trains. Again, it's almost a definite that Lego has designed this set with motorization in mind. There's plenty off detail I'm probably missing that can only be discovered with the full set in hand. Suffice to say... I'm looking forward to this set, and I have hardly been interested in any Lego set since Titanic. This feels like it will be a definite win for Lego trains. It seems to follow the more recent Lego train mentality of producing a set that can be expanded upon (more passenger cars and other fitting cars, recolor the engine, etc.) and upgradable (motorization, change the engine to a 4-6-2, add details, etc.). IF this is the real set to look forward to, I'll be in line on Day 1 (if I can).