weathering locomotives

[CP5415]

I need help.

This is going to be my first attempt at weathering & I was hopeing to get some advice.

The spraying techniques & colours to use?

Would I use an up & down spray pattern from the top of the body to the bottom?
Would a combination of flat black & a muddy brown be a good combo?

Thanks in advance

Gordon

[mondotrains]

Hi Gordon,
I invested in an air brush, compressor and spray booth last winter and have weathered several engines and pieces of rolling stock, but I'm not an expert yet. What I'd like to suggest is that you buy several engine "shells" at a local train show and practice, practice, and practice BEFORE you touch your favorite engine. Also, get some cheap rolling stock to practice on.

I got several F7 shells for $2.00 each and they gave me the opportunity to hone my skills.

You asked about colors to use. It really depends on your railroad's location as to whether the dirt looks light brown, dark brown, etc. I like to use a dusty grey for weathering because in the books I have illustrating the New Haven railroad in the 1950's, that's what I see. You'll have to experiment to achieve the right colors for you.

Another thing about weathering....I use around 12 psi on my compressor and ensure that I'm getting the lightest and finest amount of spray possible. A little bit of airbrushing goes a long way when weathering. Of course, if you're using water-based paint like me, you can use a Q-tip dipped in water to quickly get excess paint off the model before it dries.

Good luck and remember.....practice on items you don't care about until you're happy with the results. To tell you the truth, some of the rolling stock that I was going to ditch and was practicing on turned out so great, I decided to keep them. It's unbelievable how the weathering creates a realistic look and improves the models.

Have fun and don't hesitate to email me if you have specific questions.

Regards,
Mondo