Buffers

Updated: 18 June 2019

I have bought a 3D printer as described here.

I have been experimenting with my buffers using my new printer and several issues have arisen.

My printer is not as good as Shapeways FED for small holes. However it is good at smooth curved surfaces with no sign of stepping. This gives the option of including the heads with the buffer bodies. They seem to be strong enough but only time will tell.

The back of the buffer bodies is slightly dished. This may need to be eased with a file for a good fit against the buffer beam. I think this is a side effect of the printing process.

I can print in grey or black resin. In general black seems most appropriate but maybe grey would take red paint better for locos. However if the paint wears from buffer heads maybe black would be better.

For the time being I will offer these buffers in black or grey and including heads or my best attempt at holes at a price of £1.50 for 4. Hopefully experience will allow me to settle on one format.

If there is demand then I will also offer buffers with holes printed in Shapeways FED. Prices will depend on cost at Shapeways and I will not stock them.

Self-containers buffers as used on 10201-10203 plus U, U1, N, N engines & tenders

These are based on drawing A4825 with a head diameter of 17". The drawing also includes a reference to S1993 with a head diameter of 12".

The spigot diameter is designed to fit our David Andrews U and N kits. Buffers without heads have a hole through the body and spigot but the hole is blocked and will need to be carefully drilled out to fit 3mmSociety turned heads (available to members only).

Bulleid Double Decker, SR EMUs and Maunsell Push Pulls (to be updated)

I have been working on a number of buffers. The first to be available are for Bulleid double decker stock from drawing SR 65843. These are also suitable for many SR EMUs and the Maunsell pull-push conversions.

The bodies are 3D printed in Shapeways FED. They are available with head included or with a hole for the 3mm Society machined buffer head (as shown above).

I am also working on buffers for BR Mk 1 coaches and SR Maunsell and Bulleid coaches. These will both use the 3mm Society oval buffer heads which have been machined to the correct profile for the Mk 1 buffer head.

I have drawing A 4825 which is described in the NRM lists as "SE & CR Ashford 8.1.19 Buffer self-contained; used on 10201-10203 plus U, U1 N, N engines & tenders". I have this ready for printing except for deciding on the hole diameter for the shank.

These buffers are available to order using my email below as follows:

Bulleid double decker buffers including heads - set of 4 £2.25

Bulleid double decker buffers to fit 3mm Society oval heads - set of 4 £2.00

plus £1 per order for postage.

The oval buffers heads are available from the 3mm Society (members only).