EMD Blomberg Powered Locomotive Trucks
***These trucks are currently being built and tested. If you wish to purchase the design prior to the prototype being completed and available for purchase here please contact me***
You know what really grinds my gears? The price of premade powered trucks needed to complete locomotives. So I designed some trucks that can be assembled with a welder, and absolutely NO machining is required unless you wish to do so. These trucks were specifically designed for my EMD F7A and B locomotive, but would make a great set of trucks for any locomotive utilizing Blomberg trucks.
I designed these trucks to be laser cut from 1/2” steel, and use off the shelf locomotive wheels and axles from Live Steamer Parts eliminating the need for machining. The journal boxes were designed with strength in mind, and are 3D printed from PETG, ASA, or ABS, and use metal backing plates for extra strength. If you do not wish to print your journal boxes and have the ability to machine, the included files come with engineering drawings to make your own out of steel.
The incredible detail comes from a 3D printed backing plate that attaches to the back side of the truck frame, giving these trucks the detail they need to be an excellent choice for your model. These backing plates are for visual purposes only, and are not needed for the function of the trucks, so while they are not necessary they are highly recommended.
Included are ONLY the digital files needed to laser cut your frames, and 3D print your journal boxes and backing plates. You will need to source an appropriate sized motor for your trucks, and make your own mounting system for the motors.
These trucks while not difficult to make are engineered from 1/2” steel and need to support an entire locomotive. Ensuring that you have the skills to weld well enough the trucks are structurally sound is critical. Because of this, I would consider this design an intermediate skill level. It’s not a great project for a beginner to take on, but someone with a little skill and knowledge could assemble these trucks easily.
Rail to bolster height - 5.5” to 6.5”. Bolster height is determined by builders application
Length - 21.5”
Width - Frame to frame 12”. Gauge of wheels builders discretion.
