Here's one that's been sitting around for a while! I started this project years ago, and finally got around to finishing it!
Getting the see-through grills along the sides was especially time consuming! The only way I could remove the original cast grills with my available tools was to drill small holes around the perimeter of each one, cut the thin wall between holes with a knife, and then file the inside smooth. Modifying the Athearn chassis and Kato trucks was also an involved process, and the trucks wre tall enough that I had to partially cut out the floor of the GSB cab interior kit. In the end though, I think it all turned out very well!
Also, here's a video!
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That looks really good! I'll bet it can pull the walls down.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
Make sure your bridges are strong enough for it!
An "expensive model collector"
Thanks!
SeeYou190, it can certainly pull more than what fits on the layout! I wouldn't be surprised if it could go neck and neck in a pulling contest against against a much bigger RTR engine.
n012944, I'm going to be adding a bridge when I get to work on my new section's track, and will definitely be making sure it can hold the weight!
RR-Mel, it's amazing what some etched grills can do for a model! Adding them on a model like this is difficult, but I think it was worth the effort in the end. Your E7s should look great!
Darn!!! That is one nicely completed model! Well Done!!
Don; Prez, CEO or whatever of the Wishram, Oregon and Western RR
That is one SHARP looking Black Widow paint job, and the grills really set it off!
The video link isn't working though. Dan
I doubt very much that your Cary body is made of lead. Lead is extremely soft and would distort with finger pressure. I suspect Cary shells are a form of zinc based metal. Nice job though.
Darth ...... Excellent looking FT !
GARRY
HEARTLAND DIVISION, CB&Q RR
EVERYWHERE LOST; WE HUSTLE OUR CABOOSE FOR YOU
Southgate, got the link fixed! I forgot to paste it into the embed function.
ndbprr, it is definitely lead. The metal is much softer than my models made from zinc alloys or even pewter, and I had to be careful when working with it. Some manufacturers like Cary actually used lead frequently until the late 70's or so, and Penn Line used to even feature it as one of the main reasons to get their steam engine kits (high quality "printer grade" lead for sharp details and more weight!). Most of the body is about 1/8" thick to hold its shape, but can be bent easily if you're not careful (it's also a pain to drill because the soft lead likes to form around the drill bit and stick). Cary did switch to zinc some time in the late 70's or early 80's.
Darth Santa Fe RR-Mel, it's amazing what some etched grills can do for a model! Adding them on a model like this is difficult, but I think it was worth the effort in the end. Your E7s should look great!
What etched grill material did you use for the grill on your FT?Mel My Model Railroad http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/ Bakersfield, California I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.
Darth Santa Fe:
You're an artist! I wish I could kitbash something like that.
Are there any boosters or a second A unit to go with it?
Do you run DC or DCC?
I didn't know you modeled Cotton Belt alongside the Santa Fe.
RR_Mel, after looking back through the parts ordered, I used the two etched grill kits from Detail Associates for Stewart FTs.
ATSFGuy, I don't have any B units right now, but might pick one up eventually if it's cheap enough. I honestly model anything that I think is interesting.