Guys, I am just starting to do a little detail work on the few engines that I have. I've got two Athearn built CN SD40-2 (Nafta and Zebra). While I don't anticipate going to extremes in detailing right now, I would like them to look fairly authentic. Now I have seen photos of several prototype CN SD40-2, they are definitely different from what Athearn is modeling. I have seen wide cab SD40-2, different light locations, bell locations, etc. So I know I would have to majorly overhaul the Athearn to look prototypical. A couple of questions I have then are this. 1. What are the basic levels of details that you guys use when detailing your engines? 2. With regards to the handrails specifically. I was planning on using the standard issue ones. What is the process for painting and attaching them? Paint rail and stanchions separately, then assemble and then attach? Assemble, Paint, then Attach? Or Assemble, Attach then Paint? In addition, do you use any glue/CA to attach them? Thanks for any comments or advice. Bry ------------------ Smile! It makes people wonder what you are up to. Bry's Photopoint.com Album
Bry, When I'm working on my latest Frisco locomotive, I add the following details: Lift rings Grab irons MU cables Air horns (Details West) Rotary beacons (the amber ones- I model the Frisco in the mid-to-late '70s, long before ditch lights) Plow pilots Nose Gyralites As for handrails, I put 'em on, using ACC to hold 'em down, then I paint 'em. ------------------ Southeast....Southwest.. Ship IT on the Frisco! Bob T. Member # 362 http://hometown.aol.com/slsf1630/myhomepage/profile.html
Basic details I try to add.... 1. correct horn 2. correct headlights 3. MU receptacles and hoses 4. brake cylinder piping 5. speed recorder 6. bell 7. lift rings 8. uncoupling lever 9. correct antennas 10. pilot plow (if applicable) All these are the basics I'd try to add...sometimes, I go even more all-out, like on this unit (photo by Harry Wong): http://www.zing.com/picture/pe44a55ec22e6eb1ebb1cfa3e4b6093ae/ff4f620b.jpg.orig.jpg As for the handrails, I've had success by installing them(using acc to hold the stanchions in place), and then painting them. In the end though, install what looks good to you, and only do what you feel comfortable doing. And, most importantly, have fun doing it! ------------------ Have A Nice Day! [This message has been edited by Mankind (edited 14 January 2001).]
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Mankind: In the end though, install what looks good to you, and only do what you feel comfortable doing. And, most importantly, have fun doing it! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> <font color="336633"> Yup. thats the main thing, it really is up to you what you add, i started out just by adding a few bits but now my basic detail level is to add evrything i can possibly add, things like new see through fans etched step treads, new smokey vally brass handrails pipeing under the walkway etc..</font> ------------------ Matthew wheres all the C636's???? stickymonk.com Matts Photo gallery TrainBoard member #257 [This message has been edited by StickyMonk (edited 14 January 2001).]
BryGy, Since I work in steam, detailing and weathering is a way of life. I usually paint first ie I'll get a headlight paint the outside engine black, then paint inside white, install a bulb, drill a hole in the smokebox for the wires then glue the headlight on. For weathering, I like to use powdered chalk from MicroMark, then fix it with some dullcoat. Put more chalk on than you think you'll need the dull coat pulls it way back. Hope this helps. ------------------ When in doubt, empty your magazine. Member #33
