Welcome to the SIMPLEX web site.

What is Simplex?

Simplex was devised by Martin Evans, a well known and widely respected model engineer, who over the years has contributed numerous articles to the Model Engineer magazine, predominantly on the construction of models of actual locomotives in all the popular scales (3½", 5" and 7¼").

Martin perceived a need for a 5" gauge engine that would be easy to build, and which incorporated the minimum of details required to produce a working model. Simplex was developed with this in mind, all dimensions being chosen to simplify assembly, and the boiler being made as simple as a practical coal fired boiler could be.

Why choose to build Simplex?

For the inexperienced model engineer wishing to build their first locomotive, there are a number of important criteria which should be taken into account:

• For a first locomotive 5" gauge is preferable to 3½" since it is less fiddly
• Choose a proven design with readily available drawings and castings etc.
• Choose a design of which there are a reasonable number running which can be viewed and from whose builders help and advice can be sought.

Simplex meets all the above criteria. Furthermore, if one is to visit shows and exhibitions, it is apparent that numerous Simplexes (if this is the plural of Simplex) have both been built and are currently being built. It has been stated that there is not a single Model Engineering Society that does not have at least one Simplex.

Simplex pictures

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Problems, solutions and construction notes

Links to other relevant sites

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