I would buy some. Do smokejacks and window frame replacements

A second I-9 was completed using a Spectrum base. The plan is to do a clinic at the next Reading Modelers Meet on this project, so I only have a few months to sort out the over 300 images.

This second one while being generally cleaner from a lot of practice, has some upgrades. Better Walsherts valve gear, better headlight bracket, better tender frame treatment, more correct dome throttle, etc.






a general before and after.


and in action.

1971 is the best one yet, Casey. Your rolling stock collection is looking great too!

Another great job. I also enjoyed your train consists.

Thanks guys!

Decided to do a couple quick projects before getting into the next major project. They were back burner projects from 6 months to 5+ years waiting.

First done was a DS4-4-1000 that got as a PRR unit that ended up being an extra unit when collecting for the New Hope and Ivyland ones I did. Dip strips and the little number board on the front grill were added before paint, the radiator tarp was added last made from an action figure cloak with wire for straps.





The second one finished was a FP-7 I got as a already stripped Penn Central Atlas Yellow box engine. Shaving the old had rails off was probably the hardest part, trying to keep the molded riveted ends. A new steam generator was made from scratch, the pilot was notched for the steam heat pipe, the air hoses were Baldwin left overs as were the windshield wipers. The horn is actually a rebuilt Tyco horn from a C630 to point all the same direction. Figuring in about half the cost of the decals sheet (was bought for something else) The project cost probably all of $20 total.





The third and final project was a Atlas Classic GP-7 I got as Conrail. The steam generator is a details west part I picked up a while ago for this one, dip strips, steam pipes and RDG specific handrails were also added. The number boards were done with F unit decals since they have black around them then I painted black around the decals so the numbers actually light up. I tried the same in the FP-7 but the bulb set up in that (stock) is not the best, something to fix later. The GP-7 was numbered in reference to my mothers love of all horror movies, so I guess I have a good Halloween engine now.





All done in the course of 2 weeks.

Both the ! 9's and the Diesels look great. What an inspiration.
Chris