does A3 good project to start with?

[bogus105]

Hi everyone!

i'm new here on forum and in steam model world as well. I'm trying to make a decision which model to start with. I just love Shay but i think it would be better to start with A3 Penssy.
Is it possible guys you to scan just a couple of pages from Kozo's A3 book and put it on forum or directly on my email ([e-mail])? Does Kozo's plan metric or imperial units? This is important to me as i'm from Europe and i'm not familiar with inches... Well it's not about be familiar with inches, i just don't have inch drills, taps, dies, mills, stock etc. Thats why i'd like to see a couple of pages from Kozo's book to see if i can handle with it (also with english:D) prior to buying his book.
I just couldn't find information on units.

Do ya think A3 is good model to start?? It is sweet anyway.
Thanks!!
P.S. sorry for my english...

[kvom]

The book uses imperial units. I doubt linear measurements would prove a severe problems to convert to metric. Fasteners can use nearest metric equivalents.

[bogus105]

you're right about linear conversion do metric. That's not problem. The problem is in stock availability... I've read A3 building blog somewhere and there was lot of situations where A3 plan calls, say, 5/16'' square brass stock and final product had had to be 5/16'' thick so there was no machining needed... I just can't get 5/16'' from any supplier around so i need to buy 8mm aquare stock and take a shallow cut (0,062mm) on each element:/ ths cause a lot more machining:(
Or just modify element that will be mated with that '8mm-square-stock-come-from-element'...

I still would like to see couple of pages for example. I think there will be no problem with copyright as it is just a sample...

[daveb1]

I had no machining experience at all and started with the new shay because I like shays. so far the frame and the trucks are done. In my case using metric is a pain, much as you have desrcibed for using imperial in your country, but it is bearable. If you build the shay you will have the best of both worlds, an engine you like in metric. Have fun

Dave

[bogus105]

oh come on! Shay is all metric?i didn't know that and i just love the way Shay looks like! but i've already bought A3 book from US:) now i'm analysing the plans. i found it will be problem to find foundry around to order driving wheels castings. Maybe i'll use cnc router to mill then out of SS stock. Do you guys think stainless steel is good for most elements like frame?

[kvom]

Friends Models sells castings for A3. Mine were very good quality. I will likely also buy the cylinder castings from them as well.