TT120: Thy lord Hornby giveth to HOn3½ modellers

I wouldn't have considered moving to HOn3½ if it wasn't for Hornby and Peco introducing their ranges of TT120. I had always kept an eye on the various HO narrow gauges, HOn3½ always seemed just a smaller version of my tribulations in Sn3½ and O24.5. I like the idea of building a lot of stuff. I like the idea of having fairly unique models. I don't like the idea of getting my grandfather's watch making equipment out to build models. I almost tried Nn3 when younger, but even the best models in magazines and online still looked like rough castings.

My biggest issue with O scale was space. Loco construction was enjoyable, the quality of details parts amazing.
My biggest issue with S scale was availability. While building locos and rollingstock is fun, not being able to buy basic detail parts, figures or even corrugated iron for structures is quite problematic. Stagnation was the flavour of Sn modelling to me.

Enter HO narrow. Space is not a problem (well, it always will be, but it isn't all the same). There is very few useful kits on the market for Tasmanian locos or rollingstock (yet I have managed to acquire kits for an SAR T class and a GMA(M) Garratt as well as the previously posted scratchbuilt models by Andrew Collier). 3D models are available for a few items that are of use to me, the Mt Lyell M wagon by Jamie Mac and the TGR 6 wheel B class carriage, also by Jamie Mac, on Thingiverse in particular. I will post my printed copies in a later blog.

Now Hornby and Peco have taken a long-almost-extinct scale and gauge and revived it. With considerable luck, it's a gauge that suits 3'6" gauge models in the most abundant scale around. Thus HOn3½ re-entered my radar.

I procured this example from Woodpecker Model Railways to see how TT120 can assist me. TGR and EBR predominately used 2'7" dia wheels, or 9mm in HO scale. I knew Peco's wagons used 8mm dia holey disc wheels, not ideal. Hornby wheels are at least properly spoked, but are unfortunately also 8mm dia.
No matter, this underframe will still see some use. At $37.90 per wagon I won't be buying many if any more. The wheels may be useful for log bogies and freelance gap-filler rollingstock. Not sure that i'm keen on the couplers either!