None of the drivers were ever grey, they were filthy to use the proper term. Being the big work horse they were not kept immaculate they just cleaned off the lettering every so often and ran them as much as they could. This group would know many different brands and color codes to get the correct results.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/up_modelers/
I think the issue is not one of what color but rather of how the color appears.
Your instructions can be correct, paint an aluminum. But, after use, and road dirt, like the other post says, the correct term for the color would be "filth". The bright aluminum when new and fresh would be bright and shiny. After some "work in" it no longer has its luster, and appears to be a tone of gray instead. Add some india ink wash over your aluminum paint when you weather.
Whatever color one uses or calls it, I like the paint smokebox and the lower firebox panels. It gives the loco some distinction from the ones that are all black.
-G .
Just my thoughts, ideas, opinions and experiences. Others may vary.
HO and N Scale.
After long and careful thought, they have convinced me. I have come to the conclusion that they are right. The aliens did it.
Dr. Frankendiesel aka Scott Running BearSpace Mouse for president!15 year veteran fire fighterCollector of Apple //e'sRunning Bear EnterprisesHistory Channel Club life member.beatus homo qui invenit sapientiam
Grey will not look right. Use some sort of silver and then weather it to taste.
http://images.spinics.net/rail/2004-9/p9100015.jpg
Scalecoat makes a color called Graphite and Oil which I have used on all my smokeboxes and fireboxes and it matches the UP color well. I have an FEF-3 painted with it.
Rick
Rule 1: This is my railroad.
Rule 2: I make the rules.
Rule 3: Illuminating discussion of prototype history, equipment and operating practices is always welcome, but in the event of visitor-perceived anacronisms, detail descrepancies or operating errors, consult RULE 1!