Welcome

Thank you for visiting Phil's Narrow Gauge. The cars and accessories found on these pages are built in 1:20.3 scale now recognized as F scale and represent Colorado Narrow Gauge. All cars and parts are individually manufactured in my shop.

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Effective September 14, 2014 and for the Foreseeable Future

I have no kits in stock nor do I plan to manufacture any in the near future other than what's posted in the current update. Any kits produced will be of a limited run nature. No kits will be produced for the sake of having kits on the shelf for random purchases. After 16 years of doing just that, it's time for me to focus on my projects with the occasional run of a "limited run" kit. Watch for updates.

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April 19, 2025 Update

The 7/8ths project is completed. Nothing more will be manufactured. In stock are 2 flatcars, 5 boxcar 85 and 4 boxcar 147. A few pair of trucks and lots of the stainless strap steps. When they're gone, they're gone.

I've rebuilt the X axis of my mill. It was getting pretty sloppy. A new lead screw, slide screw and locking black lash locking nuts worked wonders. Still need to work on the Y axis but it doesn't take the wear and tear the X does.

As always, the best way to contact me is via email. I answer all emails. If you don't get a response, check your spam folder. I answer all emails not trying to sell swampland.

Shipping continues to be expensive and will continue to be even more expensive. I do check prices with USPS, UPS and FedEx. Sometimes cheaper isn't better. I will work with you.

Raw material prices are up. I shop around for the best materials and prices but I can't control the massive inflation we've all suffered the last 4 years. The only good news is when the price increases are divided up between lots of kits, it's a little more tolerable. I strive to hold cost to an affordable level.

"NEW" RPO 66 Update

I am working on the RPO project. I have all the 3D printed masters made in brass but have a few more levers and supports to make "in-shop" for the extensive brake mechinism. Researching pictures of other postal cars and of high end On3 models do show the bottom of the cars planked. I recognize AMS didn't do this on their version but they also didn't do the correct truss rods and brake rigging. I have 4 of probably 6 molds needed to cast all the white metal parts. Once I finish the remaining brake lever parts, I'll vulcanize the last 2 or possibly 3 molds. My next step is to make up a "test" under frame to cement in my mind the how those parts of the kit will go together. Then another "test" end of the car, to work out the details of the corners (rounded corners), rail braces, the various handrails and the end buffer. I've made up a jig to bend the handrail that bends around the rail braces. Seems to work OK.

Another item I'm going to use on this car is 1/16" brass rod for the 4 truss rods and 1-1/2mm black anodized aluminum wire (.060") for connecting the air reservoir, cylinder and all the brake levers. It's far easier to bend and fit than brass and while softer, will be protected from "rough" handling by the 4 brass truss rods. Another plus, it won't have to be painted. The brass rod and all the white metal parts blacken easily with patina before installing. This should make the underside of the car easier to complete. I have the final roof end tested and printed. Still chewing on the center roof section and whether it will be fixed to the car (glued in place) or removable. Lots to go but I'm making progress.

I have all 50 spots signed up for an RPO kit. At present, I have 6 on the waiting list should any of the 50 change their minds. We'll see how that works out. I have almost all the brass masters I need for the RPO. I do need 1 more grab iron kind of step used on the end buffer. 4 per car. I have the 3D drawing but do to shipping cost with Shapeways, want to be sure I don't need anything else. Also need to make numerous spin casting molds.

This page was last updated on 04/19/2025

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