Re: Building a new Mason Bogie

From the turn this thread took, you can see some of the "issues" that makes the idea of a new Mason Bogie not a simple project (if building a new locomotive is ever a "simple" project). This is why we are only "exploring" the idea at this time to see if such a project is feasible. Some say we should just build a replica of the DSP&P Brooks 2-6-0s instead. Much simpler (cheaper) to do and would still fit in with Como. However, we believe more people would get behind a Mason project then a South Park Mogul project. Either way, many of the issue with the Mason Bogie are being addressed today in Wales. A place with a long history of Fairlie locomotives and a current shop where new engines have been and are being built today.

Here is a Link to once such current project

Boston Lodge in Wales has also recently built a Single Fairlie in 1999 (pictured below) which is basically the same design as the Mason Bogie with the swivel power truck and a couple Double Fairies. So the modern engineering is out there. The question is can be adapt it to the Mason Bogie historical design in a way that doesn't change the original appearance too much and also won't send the needed funds through the stratosphere!


Double Fairie No 12 built Boston Lodge 1992


The Boston Lodge is even currently building another Double Fairie (picture from last year). You will note that the pulling force of these engines goes through a frame and not the boiler. As Earl pointed out earlier, all that force through the boiler is not an acceptable practice now a days.