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Kippo Signal Box

In my engine siding I decided that the points (switches) control would be motorized via a local switch box.  This was described in October 2021 update.

However when local switch box is permanently fitted it will require additional weatherproofing, even though it is an IP 66 enclosure.  After some investigation I decided that this would be in the guise of a building, the Kippo Signal Box fits the bill.

The part as they arrived, quite a lot of flashing.

Assembly started, however there is no "general assembly" photograph, and the instructions are not clear without referring to the Kippo Website photo, however assembly is simple.

In most instances I use "two-part car body filler" as my cement, and cyanoacrylate for small parts.

More work and the first deviation from the instructions.  As the roof is to be made removable, to gain easy access inside I have add some weight, using my usual format, divers ballast held in place by polyurethane resin, the dark "blob" is screw assisting the retention of the chimney.

All further detail added except for down-spouts, these will be added after painting.

Second deviation from the instructions, is support (from plastistrut) to support the steps until the box is fixed in its the final position.

With the step temporally in position.

Final scrub down next to ensure all the release agent is removed and off for the first coat of spray primer.

Assemblies cleaned and initial prime applied (to find any defects), what is now noticeable, is that some of the the patterns for the moulds were probably 3D printed as the primer has shown up the step marks in the castings. As the box would have been wood, this isn't a problem as it looks a lot like grain.

Quick update, I was going to hand paint the box, after priming, but after painting the steps, the finish was poor, the roof is hand painted but the main body is rattle can. So lot of masking tape, and time to see where we are, tape removed, in all its glory. 

A little bit of touch-up still required, where I over/under masked, final coat of white gloss to the window frames and glazing to be added, everything is on target.

A quick trial to ensure its main purpose (i.e. protect my shed turnout switches) is still viable.This fits really well, and work will continue.

The switch box was fitted to a light weight building block, and a length of conduit runs through the block for the wiring.  I scribed what looked like paving on the block, and hopefully this will weather in. 

The box fits very snugly over the switch box 

 The view of the signal box in position with the roof fitted, and hopefully it will prove worthwhile in providing weather proofing for the switch box.

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