The Motion Shed

15/06/2026

A closer look at the 07 drive mechanism.
The eagle-eyed will notice the lean towards machined parts compared to more traditional laser cut setups. There are a number of reasons for this but in summary it was to achieve a more accurate and compact assembly as space in the 07 is limited.
We have had a few conversations about sintered bushes and friction so this time we decided to explore ball bearings on the motor mount. Early testing has shown the current draw to be lower albeit not a like for like test but smoother and freer running when using ball bearings was expected. Axle box bearings remain as roller bearings as always.
Another benefit of the new mechanism is the motor can be removed without pressing off wheels. The belt can be removed for inspection or replacement without the need to remove the wheel - this is a huge bonus compared to geared setups which require a wheel to be removed.
We have a new supplier for timing belts and pulleys and these parts fit and run really well.
We didnt have enough space for an adjustable tensioner pulley like the 37 so the pulley location was determined by calculation. There is a little adjustment in clearance holes for fine tuning but using accurate machined parts made this uneventful!
lots of press fits! The tolerance fits are all good and the pressing operations were smooth and accurate. I would like to try a free running fit and Loctite assembly one day, especially the wheels as this simplifies the quartering process - a future research activity!

14/06/2026

Class 07 in 5inch gauge update

Press tooling has been the theme in the workshop for the last couple of weeks. Roller bearings in to axle boxes, hardened sleeves on to axles, stub axles in to wheels....the list seemed endless.

We have a few 07`s to build so a jig for wheel quartering is a good idea. So a bit of design work and more tooling manufacture and a jig now exists and works well.

Don't expect too many rpm`s in the video as there is no mass to counter the counter weights having said that the new mechanism concept is very smooth and wheels run nice and true.

03/06/2026

Wonderful facilities and hospitality. A great day had by all at Southport Model Engineering Club diesel day. Thank you SMEC for hosting Mike and Graham with their 5" gauge Class 37s

03/06/2026

The FWD and AFT tanks have been added to our Cults3d page:

https://cults3d.com/en/users/themotionshed/3d-models

We separated the scale parts (steps, brackets, flanges etc) from the main body and packaged them up as individual parts. It should be possible to FDM print the tank and if you have access to a resin printer then the detailed parts can be printed and bonded in place. We have not FDM printed a tank so let us know how you get on!

If your Class 37 is looking a bit slimline then consider adding the tanks. Also, the FWD tank has 2 options, one having a speaker mesh to accept a 5" speaker - which is what we use.

Repository of 3D printable designs shared by themotionshed, designer from Cults, the 3D printing platform.

31/05/2026

All set up for SMEC diesel day Southport Model Engineering Club

19/05/2026

Our first visiting diesel day of the year! Thank you for The Peacock Railway - Nantwich for inviting us.

Mike's dad joined us with his 37. Watch this space for some double heading over the summer!

17/05/2026

Double trouble for The Peacock Railway - Nantwich diesel day

06/05/2026

The Mrs commented the wardrobe was looking a little tired so behold the latest in trackside fashion!
A slightly lighter weight material compared to our previous efforts for when the going gets really tough. We`ve been really adventurous so far with the 2026 colours: red and blue! however looking at the colour pallet available there is lots of choice for those that want to go crazy.

If you fancy being the coolest kid at the track then please get in touch and if there is enough interest I will order a batch.

If, when adorned with this latest fashion statement you receive unwanted attention from admiring members of society; male and female we apologise, but please feel free to let them know where to purchase!

Disclaimer...we don't print T shirts so we need a couple of weeks to be safe to get them in and out.

01/05/2026

Class 07 in 5inch gauge update
"so it begins" Parts making their way to the clean assembly bench for the first Class 07 build. Bearings and fasteners ordered and materials for press tooling en route!

Two models will be built simultaneously each kitted out for double heading operation.

18/04/2026

Class 37 Bogie having a clean and now rebuilt This was a good opportunity to show the complexity of the machined parts required to make this a truly scale model - note all the brake detail and suspension has been removed!. This scale just allows the fitting of 3x 120W motor assemblies which is great news for traction as each axle is powered and smooth acting suspension keeps each wheel in contact with the rails!