What about the idea to have a basic Shappeways shell with no details so it can be smoothed and sanded and have a etched detail kit with it? For example for the fans, louvers, sidewall structure, grab irons, etc. Well in this case (simple shell is quiet simple without any great radius and curves) it might be than easier to have an all-metal shell anyway....
Webster's simple definition of the word Prototype reads as; an original or first model of something from which other forms are copied or developed. Problem I see with modelers is they are willing to go with the RP model as opposed to using it to create a stronger more stable model. I have to say, some of the RP creations I have seen need no improvements as the detail is superb except the RP material itself is fragile and brittle. The amount of Z scale scratch builders has dwindled to near extinction since the EASE of RP/Shapeway's availability has come around. Yes, we have more variety of items in Z scale but we have sacrificed on the quality of the material. Don't get me wrong I have RP Z scale items, but I do not rely on them for what seems to be Everything! Many times I have gotten frustrated while trying to sand or file a smooth side on an RP item and it cracks or breaks or is impossible thanks to the RP system of layering. If RP could create a smooth surface I probably wouldn't have such an issue with it. In my opinion the combinations of wood, Evergreen/Plastruct plastic, resin castings, etchings, spin castings, and lost-wax castings for models are better than RP in lieu of plastic injection. I apologize if what I have said here angers those who, in some of their postings, seem to worship creations in RP. I will leave you with this! RP is NOT the Be All-Do All when it comes to modeling in Z scale!
Missed some txt ... I did actually what Gerd means. I have casted and copied a less detailed gondola body and added the etched ladders, brake wheel and seprately printed braces. This would work for a body like FP40 in my opinion. But yes, I have to agree on: RP is NOT the Be All-Do All when it comes to modeling in Z scale! Evergreen styrene remains an important basic material for me. /Frank
