Lou’s RR Track Vacuum Car

[desertdrover]

I’ve always thought of getting a vacuum car for my railroad. After researching the internet, I found there are many models from commercial companies that vary in price range. I also found they are all built the same way mechanically and electronically.
Then I decided to build my own version. I first thought of using a box car, then a locomotive dummy shell, then decided where I had an old Roundhouse MDC track cleaner at hand, that I would kit bash it and convert it for my needs. The pictures posted above gives a quick visual of the Idea, Parts, and Intended Vacuum Device for the L&R. Please follow along with this build that I will be conducting.
Next post will start my construction build.

[desertdrover]

The main item, and most important part, for this vacuum car operation to work is the fan motor used, so we will start there. All other items used in a vacuum car build of your own, scratch built, or readily obtained, is optional or your choice/preference.


To operate my vacuum car, I’ll be using a 12-volt fan motor from Coolerguys https://www.coolerguys.com/ 25x25x10mm Fan 12-volt 840556070306.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS:
Dimensions: 25x25x10mm - Rated Voltage: 12 Volts - Rated Current: 0.04A
Operation temperature: -10 to +65 C - Storage temperature: -40 to +70 C
Bearing: Ball Bearing - Fan Speed: 10000 RPM - Static Pressure: 2.08 mm/H2O
Airflow: 2.1 CFM - Noise Level: 20 DBA - Life Expectancy: 67,000 Hrs.

[Orionvp17]

This has possibilities, Louis! I may not comment a lot, but I'm likely to be up here in the peanut gallery watching and learning!

Pete
in Michigan

[Pennman]

Louis,

I will grab a seat too, while there's still a few empty.
I want to see how you slice & dice, because you're good at it.

Rich

[slimrails]

A very interesting idea, Louis. I'll take a seat and follow along as well!

[BurleyJim]

Deal me in too, Lou!

Jim

[Larryc]

Yup another unusual "Louis build"; I'll take that seat over in the corner.....this should be fun!!!!

[greg_s]

Louis, well I guess this is one of your projects that's really going to suck when completed!
Best of luck with it Louis!

Greg

[George_D]

You have my attention, Louis.

George

[k9wrangler]

I'll keep on eye on this. It's not often Lou ventures into making something that sucks right from the git-go! I have one of those MDC sweeper scrubber things over there on the shelf, "someplace"

[desertdrover]

Thanks a lot guys for your comments and interest, now I know for sure you think my modeling sucks.
Greg and Karl you've got some good ones!

[Bernd]

Damm, late to the party again. Standing room only. Louis you need a bigger workshop. I'll stop by occasionally when it's not so crowded to see your progress.

Bernd

[desertdrover]

Thanks Bernd, talk about a bigger workshop, just following your ideas and builds, they come from everywhere. I know you have projects planned that will last a life time.

[Dutchman]

I'm so late checking in that I'll be standing next to Bernd in the back row. I'm looking forward to your build, Lou.

[desertdrover]

Thanks Bruce, glad to have you aboard. Better late than never I say.