I am new to adding details to vintage HO locomotives. I'm interested in adding details to a Varney dockside but I have no experience doing this. A couple of basic questions:
I wanted to add some handrails and stanchions along the side. I have found Cal Scale 190-604 handlrail stanchions on ebay. Would these be suitable for this model? It looks like I'd have to drill holes in the metal frame to anchor the stanchions.What type and size of wire/rod would be suitable to thread through the stanchions? Would K&S brass rod .020 work for these stanchions? I don't know what size/material to use.
What other Cal-Scale parts would be suitable for this locomotive?
Painting: It looks like many people leave the brass parts unpainted after being added to a model. What is the "convention" here, if there is one? Should one paint or not paint bright brass detail parts or is it modeler's discretion? (What paint is suitable for the brass parts if painting is recommended, assuming oil-based over acrylic)
Thanks!
I believe there is a duplicate post in the General Discussion section.