Well, thought I'd kind of do a review/how-to of Craig's detail parts since I finally made my order and put them on a LL GP18. I must remind you that if you'd like to model a prototype, photos are the best way to look at details. My order came in packed well, with all parts accounted for (it was a rather large order). So I decided to use my GP18 as a guinea pig, rather than mess up the shell on one of my GP30s or 35s. I started with putting the grab irons on, using a #78 drill bit to drill out the holes. All went in quite well. After this tedious process was finished, I moved to the rest of the shell detail. A long Sinclair antenna was attached to the short hood just before the cab. Sunshades were added as well. I took a fine file and put a slant onto the mating surface, so it would rest at an angle. Next came the ends by the couplers, both done the same way. Having the MT conversion installed on this model, I had to cut away the footboards so I could install the plow. I had selected the Plow w/MU hoses, and was very pleased by the way it came out. A few quick runs with the file rounded any molding irregularities, and the plow was mounted. The Porch-Mounted MU hose connector was next, sitting offset to the your right as you look at the loco, on the outer edge of the inner handrail support. This part was clean right out of the bag. Following this, I did the Pilot-Mounted Ditchlites, a few of which required a quick run with the file. These went on the inside edge of the outer handrail supports, with the tops even with the walkway. Finally, the Cut-Lever was trimmed and attached, with the bar running in front of the top of the ditchlite housing (they run behind on the prototype). I ordered frame-mounted bells, but I will install one after painting the locomotive. These parts are of excellent quality, with only minor (if any) brush-up needed before installation. They certainly add to the appearance of the model. All installatations done with Superglue (CA or ACC). Craig, thanks for the products. ------------------ Corey Lynch Pres - Rensselaer Model RR Society, NEB&W RR http://www.rpi.edu/~lynchc/Railfanning/railfanning.htm - My Site http://www.union.rpi.edu/railroad/ - NEB&W [This message has been edited by Harron (edited 09 December 2000).]
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Harron: Well, thought I'd kind of do a review/how-to of Craig's detail parts since I finally made my order and put them on a LL GP18..<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Craig has added a gallery to the BLMA website. It says that if "If we use your photos, we'll include a link to your web page, plus give you 10% off your next order! I probably should've let Craig tell you about this, but since I'm the webmaster for his site, and since I twisted his arm to add it, I wanted to post it here! Ed Harrison ------------------ Ed's Mental Cab Ride
That's alright Ed. And yes, I do know about this offer. To be honest with you, I was one of the first people Craig talked to last year when he started to expand his business, prior to the introduction of he detail parts line. I talked to him the other night about getting these photos, and he mentioned this. You guys can take em right off of the site to add if you'd like. ------------------ Corey Lynch Pres - Rensselaer Model RR Society, NEB&W RR http://www.rpi.edu/~lynchc/Railfanning/railfanning.htm - My Site http://www.union.rpi.edu/railroad/ - NEB&W
WOW! Thanks for everything Corey. Looks like you are doing a very good job on that locomotive! Yes, you were on of the first people I talked to about the detail part side of my company, and as a matter of fact, you were one of the first people I talked to when I started BLMA nearly a year ago! Here is how everything happend for those who would like to know: Jan 2000 BLMA starts with custom painting and detailing (of coarse...LOL) July 2000 BLMA starts making detail parts. Although I still do both of these things (painting and making detail parts), I am dwindeling down my orders so I can focus on detail parts and nothing else. And as Ed pointed out, the new feature on the site is a win/win situation! You get a link to you site, your models will be on our site and you will get 10% off your next order. Well, thanks again and thanks for listening! ------------------ Craig Martyn Best Looking Models Around Custom detailing AND N scale detail parts. BLMA N Scale Detail Parts BLMAinfo@aol.com
