How would you model a SP shorty vanderbuilt tender in S scale

[West Coast S]

Got the blueprints, measured/photgraphed a prototype, would you use a cut down tank car or build from pvc tube and add a wrapper? I've been putting this off for some time, now that the loco is in the mail its decision time. All comments, suggestions welcomed.

[jrbarney]

West Coast S,
Sounds as though you need to take the tank diameter dimension from the print and see if there are any S scale tank cars that you can kit bash. If you decide to go the plastic route, you might want to check Plastruct:
http://www.plastruct.com
to determine if they have tubing that scales to the right diameter and hemispherical caps of the right curvature. You'll probably have to add weight if you do go the plastic route. Are we correct in assuming that you have the correct trucks, brake gear, etc. ?
Bob
NMRA Life 0543

[West Coast S]

10 years or so ago, a Brass importer did a special run of these tenders, they are of course impossible to find now as the run was done on a presold basis. The good news is the importer will sell castings such as, tank ends, frame, trucks, bolsters/tank saddles and all the detail parts. I'll hit the LHS this weekend and see what I come up with.

[jrbarney]

West Coast S,
I noticed that Cryer Gray Foundry:
http:www.cryergrayfoundry.com
shows a Vanderbuilt tender behind their S scale UP S-51, but they don't mention offering it separately, and it would be pricey.
Bob
NMRA Life 0543

[West Coast S]

Thanks, I've got a lead for some On2 1/2 tank car bodies they may fit the bill.. Wish me luck.