3D Printed Dry Bulk Trailer Build in HO scale

Shapeways link:
www.shapeways....

[@SouthernAlbertaRail]

Nice job on the Pneumatic Bulker John. Looks Great! Something I will never forget about theses things is witnessing a hose break between the pump on the tractor and the trailer while discharging flour into a bakery. Blew a 5 foot tall pile of flour out over the back axles of the truck. They dug everything out with a Bobcat!

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Grant! Wow I can imagine there is a lot of material under pressure in that trailer. I never really understood how these trailers worked until I did some research for this project. I plan on making a few more in the future as they come out really nice. All the best, John

[@yrunaked4]

that trailer looks awesome, I need to research them to see what similar trailers looked like in 1986 to fit my period. that tractor is beautiful too. Also saw your article in MRH, congrads and thanks so much for sharing

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you!

[@barryclements8395]

Hi, I'm the designer of this model, and I have quite a range of Dry Bulks (and many other models in various scales). If you search for my shop on Shapeways (baztrains), you will find a couple of trailers suitable for your time period (Dry Bulk 01 and 02). I hope this is helpful. Barry

[@markschumacher6630]

Amazing how these printed models are so accurate. Plz try and zoom in closer so we can see better up close. Thx man..

[@RailserveJohn]

Will do! Thanks for the comment.

[@barryclements8395]

If you look on Shapeways website and search for 'baztrains' you should find my shop with all my various railroad models and several scales. I have photos of models I built myaself, and some customers models. Barry

[@BoxcarJerry]

Hey John nice looking build , the details are very well done . Thanks for sharing .

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Jerry!

[@barryclements8395]

Jerry, this model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@barnfulloftrains]

That looks really Good.- Gary

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@the_blue_collar_gypsy1162]

Nice truck ! those trucks have a blower that use a p.t.o. that use the motor revolution to push air in the tank to push the materials out. Ex; ciment 1100rpm, plastic pellets 700rpm. Keep up the good work!

[@RailserveJohn]

Awesome! I figured it was something off a PTO. Thanks.

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@TheTrainFan]

Looks really good man!

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Buddy!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@Trendsetta68]

Looooove it !!! GOD Bless !!! 😇👍🏼

[@19scamps92]

another teriffic job and great video John! Very very nicely done. Thank you for sharing sir

[@SouthBrooklynRR]

This was very informative and great work.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Bill!

[@barryclements8395]

Bill, this model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@miachevydude]

I have one of the Shapeways trailers,but haven't attempted the "Build" just yet.Unfortunately there are no manufacturers that produce this trailer,except in Brass.You would think a company like Trucks n stuff would have produced this trailer by now?

[@RailserveJohn]

I know it would be great if someone manufactured an accurate model like this... if it were a bit smoother it would look amazing. Even with the grainy bottom it still looks pretty good. And even better from about 2 feet away lol. Thanks for the comment.

[@thomasgrassi8817]

Hello John I just received my Shapeways Bulk Trailer over the weekend. It looks great now to get it detailed. Can you create a supply list of the items you used and a link to where your purchaed them. I found some of the items but not all Thanks Tom

[@SchuylkillRiverValley]

That trailer looks fantastic John! Love the alclad finish. Beautiful job detailing the truck. Thanks for sharing. Best, John

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you Sir!

[@barryclements8395]

Hi, much of the detail is already part of the 3D-print. Please take a look on my Shapeways shop, search for 'baztrains'. I have many types of model in lots of scales. Barry

[@SchuylkillRiverValley]

@@barryclements8395 Thanks Barry, it certainly looked like a nicely detailed print. Not to take anything away from that, I was specifically referring to the finishing & details added by John. Best, John

[@barryclements8395]

@@SchuylkillRiverValley Thanks John, the model was certainly painted, declared and lights added to a high standard. With regard to the print itself, I try to add as much detail that the print processes will allow. Barry

[@charliealpha11f3b2]

John - excellent work, as usual. I wouldn't worry too much about your trailer not being 'shiny enough.' The prototype photo you showed is of a tank that was cut (with sandpaper), then polished out with successive finer and finer rouge polish to get that high gloss polished aluminum look. If you are modeling winter, or just past winter coming into early spring, the finish you have on there is perfect for a company that maintains their equipment and regularly washes it. Very few pneumatic bulk trailers are polished out like that. You should look at the prototypes as the aluminum oxidizes; they are anywhere from your level of sheen all the way to a light or dark grey color as the oxidization gets worse and road grime and spilled product embed into the aluminum. It looks as if this is an owner-operator's tractor who leases on with a company and hauls their trailers. Extraordinarily well done, keep up the good work and can't wait to see what's up next!

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you! Yeah that’s what I was thinking too. I wanted to see if it was possible to make a 3D printed model shine. I’m building another one on an older truck and it’s going to be a dull used look.

[@barryclements8395]

Charlie. This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. I agree with your comment about the finish, and modt model railroads work on the '3-foot' rule. If it looks ok form three feet, than that's good enough. Barry

[@maxim430]

This is the problem I have with american HO vehicles. The trailer looks outstanding, but the tractor is so cheap looking. All these molded on and chunky details dont really do it justice. I also have a bunch of european trucks from herpa which are so much more detailed.

[@RailserveJohn]

You are 100% right... Unfortunately we don't have any high quality American Vehicles. The only one that looks amazing is River Point Station but they are only making small light trucks. I really enjoy building the older Promotex Models and adding aftermarket etched metal details. Hopefully someone fills this gap in our hobby soon. Thanks for the comment.

[@maxim430]

@@RailserveJohn yeah its unfortunate indeed. The european manufacturers only make european cars, which are very Nice but I'd like some more american or even japanese cars.

[@1990sRailfan]

I'm surprised, that print looks great. I've had bad luck with Shapeways high detail, a lot of prints were unusable. I bought a photon printer and it's amazing. I model N scale, so the small build plate is suitable for rolling stock. I only turn to Shapeways now for those large less detailed items. Great job John.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks! I have had good luck with their fine detail print options. This trailer was not cheap and honestly was debating buying it for a long time but decided to take a chance. It would be great if someone made one of these trailers in molded plastic.

[@1990sRailfan]

@@RailserveJohn Yeah, I'd guess that trailer had to be close to $100 if not a little more.

[@RailserveJohn]

yes. I couldn't model the North Dakota Mills transfer spot without one of these. However I stock up on detail parts so it makes it a bit easier.

[@CONTAINERMAN68]

You know that you can buy chrome dual wheels and tires from Herpa, so you don't have to destroy or waste that pretty spread axle flatbed trailer!

[@ryangrider9607]

CONTAINERMAN68 yeah, I thought the same thing. Just got a pack of 12 for seven bucks.

[@RailserveJohn]

Yup, I didn't have any others laying around. The wheels slide off of the axles so a new set will be added. The flatbed trailer is a really nice model.

[@RailserveJohn]

@@ryangrider9607 I didnt feel like waiting for the wheels. A new set will be added to the flatbed for an upcoming project.

[@dacuzzz]

hi John...very nicely done...looks fantastic...👍👍...3D prints are awesome it's just the sanding that needs to be done to get it smooth...thx for sharing...vinny/da cuzzzz

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Vinny!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@Kevin-ev7hw]

John you need to add at least a 2 CB antennas and maybe a Ham anntena to the truck. You did a great job on that build.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks Kevin. Yes it does need some antennas. I wish this truck came with a little better quality details. I will use .008 wire.

[@dclarkfarm]

Very nice work

[@ArmandoRodriguez-qy2hu]

Ill take the trailer

[@ArmandoRodriguez-qy2hu]

The trailer i ment was the flat bed as i have 10 bulk trailers from shape ways and yours is the best one yet. Contact me at [e-mail] if you want to part with whats left of the flat bed trailer.

[@richardcolemanjr3749]

I wonder way there not avaible ready to run yet. Maybe Trucks n stuff should do some in the various types.

[@RailserveJohn]

I agree. These style trailers are so widely used. Hopefully one day someone will make one.

[@ryangrider9607]

Still desperately trying to get a model company to do one of these trailers. Seems like a no brained to me. I have spent 20 years in the short line railroad industry and have worked on at least 10 different short lines at one time or another and the one thing nearly ALL of them have in common is a plastics trans load operation somewhere. These type trucks pull up, often on nothing more than a gravel road beside a track and transload directly from railcar to truck with no other support equipment. Seems like any modern era layout can justify a plastics transload operation. Why Walters doesn’t make one of these trucks puzzles me.

[@RailserveJohn]

Me as well! If I could mass produce the kit I would do it myself.

[@ThomasKlimoski]

Hi John, Nice job on the dry bulk trailer. Thanks for highlighting the steps you took to finish off the Shapeways product. Using the wire for the air hoses to the trailer is a great idea. Yes, it is pricey but I think it is worth it as you now have another "industry" on your layout without building a structure.-Tom

[@RailserveJohn]

Exactly! Thanks Tom!! This rig is definitely an eye catcher.

[@barryclements8395]

Thomas, this model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@rayrr2013]

Yours looks really good. I just can't justify that expensive a trailer. I've kitbashed two herpa ones with decent results.

[@RailserveJohn]

It is pricey!

[@davidmuse7004]

That came out looking awesome, great job. Muse

[@barryclements8395]

David, this model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@hugomartinez9540]

Bghyyyyyyy❤

[@barryclements8395]

Hi John and thanks for the tutorial on painting one of my Shapeways Dry bulk models (please search for designer 'baztrains' to find all my railroad-related models in various scales), you've done a great job. I have painted a couple of my trailers with the Alclad Chrome paints and they do look good. A plain grey also works for them too. Although the 3D-printed wheels are adequate, I've used Promotex axles on some trailers, and for the lights, I use these small 'nail-art' gems (a couple of dollars for a thousand, and in different colours). You might like to consider my Conveyer Loader/Unloader for your transfer depot for freight hopper cars & Dry Bulks. I have produced a range of these Dry Bulk trailers, even one for the 1960's. Thanks again. Barry.

[@RailserveJohn]

Awesome! Thanks for the comment and even more thanks for designing this awesome model. You nailed every detail from the prototype. The 3D printed wheels are very good quality and are being used on another project. I just wanted them to match the truck. I’ll be ordering more from you. Again awesome work.

[@ruatrainman2]

Very cool rig John, I also use Lonestar Markers, they look great. Keep up the great work bud.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks! I appreciate the comment!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@chty97a]

Awesome work John, like your shelf layout also. Question about the Alcad paints, do you have to use the Alcad gloss black only or can one use any other gloss black?

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you. And i'm not sure. Those paint are pretty strong and am not if they will eat though anything else. Their Gloss Black Base is really nice. Its flows really nice straight into an airbrush as well as the metals. It might be worth the couple extra bucks to get predicted results.

[@williambryant5946]

It came out very good. 👍

[@DruSteel69]

Beautiful results. Great job, John. Thanks for sharing.

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@PremierNorth]

Looks fantastic! Always enjoy your videos and your layout is awesome

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you very much!

[@ressarest]

Amazing 3d printed scale models trailer truck

[@pizzasinpina9119]

Does anyone know what brand the truck is?

[@RailserveJohn]

The Peterbilt and trailer is made by Trucks N Stuff

[@pizzasinpina9119]

@@RailserveJohn oh thanks

[@HODMEChannel]

Nice work John! Looks fantastic!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@garywaldron7773]

amazing keep up the good work! :)

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@russglaude8535]

Would you be interested in building a bulk tank?

[@RailserveJohn]

As much as I love building these models I don’t think I will have the time for custom builds. If I ever decide to sell any of my models I’ll be sure to announce it with a video.

[@4449John]

Looks pretty darn good to these old eyes, I bought the set of pup's to make Calif doubles and can see how much the finer material saves one in sanding and filling, my next buy will use this material. Thanks for showing close ups of the trailer before and after, that really helps one to make a decision. Even after a lot of sanding on the other material I can't make my trailers shiny; fortunately the outfit I model does not wash their equipment; water is very scarce in the Sonoran desert of southern Arizona. Stay safe and keep up the way you are going, I love what you are doing.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you. I really appreciate the comment. All the best, John

[@randysrockandrollrailroad8207]

I think it turned out great!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@jimtedesco]

Wow, that looks really good.

[@barryclements8395]

James, this model is one of my many Dry Bulks, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@INKDRAILS]

How do you like working with Shapeways Products for your vehicles? I am looking at ordering a few for some custom trucks and trailers I would like to add to my layout. Do you have any recommendations on how to paint these models?

[@RailserveJohn]

The process of uploading files to print or printing existing files from the site is very straight forward. They make the process very user friendly depending on the type of print you choose has a big impact on the finished model. I would recommend the finest, highest quantify print to get good results. If you watch the video I did on the Dry Bulk Trailer, you can see how the print comes in the mail to what is required to get a finished product. I have found Tamiya fine primer to work well after the print is cleaned up. After the primer is on I have used acrylics, oils and lacquer based paints. Thanks for watching, John

[@INKDRAILS]

@@RailserveJohn Thanks John for the information on painting and prepping the shapeways items. Are you planning to do anymore custom vehicles for your layout?

[@TT-zm8np]

Beautiful Pete and trailer! Also what did you use again to curl up your air hoses?

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks. I just twisted a piece of thin copper wire around a styrene rod. Thanks for watching.

[@TT.4_]

@@RailserveJohn very nice do u have an email or anything?

[@RailserveJohn]

@@TT.4_ [e-mail]

[@CONTAINERMAN68]

There would be a wet kit added to the truck. That big fat hose would then be hooked to the pump of the wet kit, then the motor of the wet kit would provide suction to suck the Portland Cement or sand out from the tanks! Decal Print makes a 3 hopper dry bulk or Pneumatic trailer, however you want to describe it. I'll send you mine so you can paint it and add those Lonestar lenses, stripes and weather it! I'm never going to have time to put it together, driving truck! Nice build! Looks great!

[@RailserveJohn]

Ah that's what its called..... I've seen the hard piping on the frame of the truck where the hose connects but never knew how it worked. Is it pressure or a vacuum? I'll paint and detail it for you. send me some pictures of the kit.

[@CONTAINERMAN68]

@@RailserveJohn I think it's a vacuum? I'll need your address. My address is on my about section on my channel.

[@RailserveJohn]

@@CONTAINERMAN68 email me at [e-mail]

[@dynamicloco2186]

The price of this is just crazy

[@RailserveJohn]

Trucks N Stuff now makes a similar trailer for $20. Slightly different but still a dry bulk.

[@Timrathmore]

The detail on that is amazing.

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank you

[@victorraye57]

LOOKS AWESOME DUDE!!!

[@RailserveJohn]

Thanks bud!

[@barryclements8395]

This model is one of my many Dry Bulks I've created, please take a look at my shop on Shapeways website. Search for 'baztrains'. I have many railroad-related models, in many scales. Barry

[@ccl7754]

Magnifique 👏👏👏👍

[@RailserveJohn]

Thank You!