Bogie Cattle Van Build
Note that the majority of closed wagons follow the same overall build methodology with minor differences for doors, ventilators, etc.
Step 1 Basic Body Parts
The side and ends are made up of two layers, a thicker outer layer and a thinner inner layer as shown.
Step 2 Gluing Up The Sides
The sides should be glued up so that the outer layers face outwards and the inner layers face inwards. Make sure that all the edges line up. Note if making a different model check the orientation of the layers as some face outwards.
Step 3 Adding The Sides
Glue the sides to the edges of the floor, they should be flush each end. A tin is useful to hold the floor down and a few loose roof ribs can be used to hold the sides apart. Now is also a good time to glue the doors together.
Step 4 Adding The Ends
Add the ends making sure that the roof lines up with the sides. A tin and clothes pegs are very helpful. When the two ends are on you should have a nice strong box.
I typically apply paint at this point, the floor having previously been stained is masked off to protect it. All the small parts also being painted or stained as required.
Step 5 Adding Detail
The holes for the side rod can now be drilled and the wire glued in place. The bogie set screws can now be added before the roof ribs and the iron work attached, using superglue together with the separate doors.
Note that I typically paint on the fret as this keeps the parts in place and makes them easier to handle.
Step 6 Underside & Roof
Flipping the wagon over onto its roof the underside floor beams can be added to the side edges together with the central bracing frame. The central buffers are best added before the bogies, which can be bolted on. See the bogie build guide for construction oft the running gear.
Now is the time to test run the wagon before adding the roof.
Note full printed instructions are included in every kit. Example instructions can be found on the How to / Resources page.