Road Loco Roof

I’m in the process of finalising the design for the Road Loco roof and there are a couple of options that I would like some feedback on.

Option 1 is that the roof is a permanent fixture to the engine. It could be removed but it would mean undoing about 10 bolts. This option would allow us to replicate the full size engine more accurately but it will make the driving and steaming more awkward. Cut outs or removable sections in the roof to suit the individual driver could make this a bit easier. Please note however that the roof will be supplied to construct a solid single piece roof.

Option 2 is an easily removable roof. The four corner support rods would slot into brackets which are permanently attached to the engine. There may be the need for a couple of bolts to be removed for holding some of the cross braces. The roof could then be completely removed in a few minutes when going on a long road run. It would also make routine maintenance somewhat easier as access would be much improved when the roof is removed.

I would be interested to read your views.

Regards

Steve

Hi Steve,

I am a long way from needing a roof with just twelve months into the build. But I intend to drive my engine so the removable roof would get my vote.
Ian

I would certainly want to take the roof off for either driving or maintainance, I would however want to display it "at rest" so to speak ( lunch, just relaxing during tea etc ) with the roof in place so the second option would be the one for me too. The roof on the Maxitrak was a pain but I came up with a similar system where the four uprights had a tube design so the post slotted into place allowing for quick and easy removal but kept it in place if being driven.

Option two sounds best to me please.

Hi Steve,

Option two for me also please.

Rick

Hi Steve,
The second option would also be good for me, thanks David Watts.

option 2 sounds the better one

Kev

Definetly option 2 for me

With best wishes
Simon

Option 2 looks good to me.

Sorry to go against the grain but I think that option one would be preferable, I would make a wide removable piece to aid visibility for running. I may change my miund once I try and reach tround the rear supports though I did manage to drive Clive Hearsy's engine for a few minutes - Dwayne, Brian, any comments on that as know you have driven Clive's engine too.

Brian

I thought the roof was going to hinge up on gas struts.

Mike

No that's the Showmans version with the 'soft touch' closing!!