<font color="336633">Well as I have several locos now fully detailed up (Atlas GP38, RS3, Stewart F7A, F7B, Proto 2000 SD7) I thourght it was about time I got some freight cars up to standard, I have a few started, while I am waiting for parts for the other cars (namely ladders) I have got on with one that doesnt need any bits buying for it, I already have the coupler cut bars in stock. This is an Intermountian 2 bay ACF covered hopper. I had to kitbash it a little to get it to match the prototype I am modeling, BN 437024, this used to be in the CB&Q 184000-184399 series. The main detail changes between the prototype and the Model is the ladders and sides, The Model had the ribs on the top of the sides removed and a new single "rib" added lower down. The ends was harder, I had to remove the corner ladders (right hand side looking at the ends) and add new supports. On the Brake end of the car the brake wheel had to be moved up to the top, and a new plate made. I have still to add the new chain to the end. This will be fitted with 2 trough hatches, the ladders, coupler cut bars will be added after painting. There are also a new diagonal brace on the ends. this is a close up of the B end, you can see the new brake wheel this is the origonal end for comparison you can see the new side rib on this photo. This photo shows the new side and end support bars and the new brace. Close up of the A end. I will post more photos when it is painted and again when weathered (this will be a clean car as it was repainted in 1980)</font>
Matt, GREAT work! Looking like a winner! I like the end inner detail... and all. Plus the "clean" lines.. will make a very realistic looking car!
