Hello all... trying to get these done (the backlog of head end cars for the Fast Mail and other ATSF transcon trains is starting to stack up as other cars are acquired) This is my second go at this one; I'm starting to get some seasoning on building these cars from Roberto's sides, and this sone is an improvement of my first attempt. I removed all the underframe detail from the Rivarossi comnine, then rebuilt the floor after cutting the car in half and removing the necessary length; I also left some 'undercut' around the 6 door openings to allow for the inset doors. I don't have a resistance soldering setup, so, rather than solder the doors to the car side, I tacked in place with superglue, then fixed them with JB Weld epoxy...they should be able to stand up to the clearing the aligned holes for the door hand holds (speaking of: there 16 door hand holds that have to be fabricated for this one!) I also modified the end of the car for the separate brake wheel, chain, and working diaphragm BEFORE gluing the car sides to the body. Still to come, before prepping for paint, the end steps, drop grabs for the ends, hand railings, brakewheel and chain, and roof vents and roof ladder supports.As soon as this one is done, I've got two of the BEAUTIFUL resin castings from Bill of Skytop...NYC converted troop sleeper express boxcars; they'll find themselves, immediately, in revenue service in the Fast Mail consists! Thanks for looking, ~Bruce
On the Santa Fe, these cars served 'til 1970-72...they were either scrapped, or entered service as stock cars 'til '74...one was turned into a MOW car. ~Bruce PS-I need to add that they were used in modelled year, 1957, as basic express cars.
How did you make the end in the bottom photo? The hinges look like they are part of an original end casting. I really like these cars and think they really added a unique distinction to passenger or express trains.
The sides from M&R come with a new end that has the hinges etched into it. You have to add the locking bars and modify the roof to fit over the new end. Bruce's last photo shows the stock Rivarossi end that has the brake wheel shaved off.
The Barstow W.A.R.M. has one of these sitting in their Museum. Painted in the grey paint scheme. http://barstowrailmuseum.org/ex2.html Bruce, you are so right. Something about the second time around always turns out better. Mighty fine work.
Bruce, I just pulled out a first run Arbomambo production. I have to say your work is a testament to good solid craftsmanship. I wish I had half the talent and drive you have. You've got what it takes.
