Leaves on the line – no problem at MPLR
Following extensive research (none) the MPLR are proud to announce that tests on a converted wagon fitted with a patent track clearing device have proved a great success.
The workshop staff have completed the testing of the unique device and are now confident that services will be uninterupted this autumn as the leaf fall season begins. The device, powered by a 9v motor has a rotating brush that clears gravel, leaves and so on from the track as it is pushed around by Ron or any other slow moving loco. Many hours are lost each year manually clearing track before the morning run, from now on the MPLR will be able to complete this vital safety procedure quickly and easily. The lads are in line for a bonus this month and would like to point out that they are more than happy to give details of their wonderful machine to any other 16mm railways that might want one too.
Below you can see close up shots of the prototype. This is only the prototype and will be improved in the near future, changing the rubber drive belt for a chain drive and even the fitting of an on/off switch. Clever isn’t it.
A fine day was chosen for the testing…
Here we see ‘Ron’ , approaching the station, putting the automated sweeper/clearer through its paces
…and passing the station, working superbly.
Sadly, Albert locked himself in the staff loo. He was/is very upset at “new fangled inventions, nothing wrong with walking the track every day. In my day I used to be out walking the track at 5:30 every morning, no messing about with…” You get the idea. We are sure old Albert will come to terms with the 21st century sooner or later. ‘Cant please everyone, can you?
