Live Scale What?

I am involved in the Live Scale Steam community. Think of it as model railroading gone completely bonkers.  unlike tabletop model railroading, engineers actually ride their trains, and steam locomotives are actually powered by steam, fired by coal, oil or propane, and sometimes even wood.  Engines are typically built from scratch or castings using plans scaled down from or inspired by the original prototype.  Due to the nature of steam technology, scale steam engines work exactly like their full size counterparts, often with working brakes, pumps, sanders, whistles, bells, etc.

There are many tracks located around the United States and all over the world. It is a close-knit, fun hobby and I reccomend it to anyone who likes trains or has interests in steam, machining metal or the satisfaction of building things with your hands.

Projects

Chloe Restoration

My father and I are currently building a 7.5" gauge 0-4-2 Allen Models 'Chloe' engine, originally working from parts we purchased second-hand.  project page and galleries coming soon.

Riding Tender for the Chloe

This is an all-in-one water and propane tender diguised as a MOW (Maintenance of Way) caboose, which is a half-caboose, half flat car.  Project page and galleries coming soon.

Pennsy A3 Switcher
in 3/4" scale

I am scratch building a Pennsylvania A3 Switcher 0-4-0 in 3.5" gauge based on plans by Kozo Hiraoka. Project page and galleries coming soon.