Hi all,
I've hit the point where I am fed up with unpacking and re-boxing each loco after use. I'm after a quicker - but safe - alternative.
I have a load of old JB models foam inlays, but the loco's wobble inside as the trays are slightly too wide.
What's everyone using?
Edit - Layout is in the garage so loco's come in side when not in use, to protect from weather variables!
I use A4 sized boxes - these specifically: https://www.westonboxes.com/products/a4-plastic-storage-box
With foam inside them. You can use the foam mats used when camping.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/152/6734-030625213547.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=152877)
I've got the 10 Commandments N Gauge Storage cases in 4-litre Really Useful Boxes. I have two layers of the inserts, which I find store rolling stock very well and which nicely fit in a M&S Percy Pig large shopping bag, for when I carry stock between home and the clubrooms.
https://tencommandmentsmodels.co.uk/product/n-gauge-storage-case/ (https://tencommandmentsmodels.co.uk/product/n-gauge-storage-case/)
A few years ago I made myself a load of these;
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/119/medium_7182-070222112553.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=119255)
Kato re-railers with brass shim inserts in the flange grooves that wrap around to make contact with the rails, then plasticard sides, ends and lids. One end is a gate that slides in/out.
I just drive the loco in, insert the gate, lift the whole thing off the track and put the lid on. To put the loco on the track I do the reverse.
For short enough locos, I have a second gate midway along so I can store two in one case.
I did make them for all my locos, but now I've made more locos I really need to count up and make a load more cases for them all.
I've used JB Models boxes and cases for years without incident.
As long as you're not throwing the box between the house and the garage, a little bit of wobble won't do the locos any harm.
If you are worried, then a few layers of acid free tissue paper (art shop or Hobby Craft) will help pack the gap and prevent brake and valve gear from catching on the foam.
I like using Really Useful Boxes with Ten Commandments foam inserts. Each A4 sized box can fit in 18 rows (9x2) of N gauge storage slots, which can fit one carriage or full sized locomotive each, or 2-3 wagons (or presumably small locomotives, e.g. steam tank locomotives). The A4 versions of the Really Useful boxes can be stacked into a wheeled drawer unit.
Thanks all, good food for thought!