Aquitrain

Aquitrain
Astor, Bouillac, France , 24480
Tel: 00 33 553 632 311

AQUITRAIN is based around the conversion of Lima coaches to reasonable 7mm scale models, either using overlay sides or complete respray, and also looking at building different manufacturers kits. The other main activity is building finescale pointwork using C&L components ,or copperclad. Some standard pieces available at shows, other more specific formations are to order. I supply spare parts for Lima trains and also have my own etch for single link couplings; very useful on coaches!

AQUITRAIN was started officially on 1st January 2007 , and is my outlet for the passion that I have for model railways.

Originally just a return to an old hobby, and now captured by the 'presence' of O gauge , I was soon on my way to filling our house with stock that I had built, and no layout to run anything, I knew anyway that I prefered making things to running them, but love to see other peoples layouts at shows. Lima trains are a cheap entry into O gauge, and that is how I started, but saw that they were underscale, particularly in width. Setting out to correct this I came across Roger Bailey (The Plastic Surgeon) who was in the process of retiring, so we had a chat, I purchased his trade stand, and I was launched on another career !!!

Basically, I cut the Lima coach down the middle, widen to scale, rearrange windows and doors to the coach diagram required, either apply overlay sides or respray the model, the original roof is widened and then fitted with a one piece overlay. Roofs have correct vents, rain strips, tank fillers and periscopes (as required). Coach sides have brass door and grab handles fitted.

Undercarriage is left as is, but correct BR Mk1, B4 or Commonwealth bogies are used and then the coach ride height is correct. Transfers are applied to coach sides and windows. Concertina corridor connectors and Aquitrian single link couplings are used to finish off.

I also like the challenge of building pointwork, so started building copperclad formations and then height matching it to the major suppliers ranges, it is Ok if you are viewing from a distance, but people with indoor highly detailed layouts want more realism, so I also use C&L Components to build the correct chaired track. Tiebars and dropper wires are usually fitted.

I have various Lima spares in stock, including brand new coach bogies, buffers, wheels, Flushglaze packs for Lima and Triang 'Big Big', an etch in brass to give all the handles, grab rails, hinges, etc for a Mk1 coach, and my own Aquitrain single link coupling etch (one etch makes two pairs) which I also use on my own coach conversions.

I am a member of the Gauge O Guild N° 15813; and although living in France, I normally attend the 3 Guild shows and the Reading show each year with my trade stand, where I take and deliver orders, show off my wares, and if time permits, have a look around at other peoples beautiful models.