Passenger Car Interiors: Branchline vs Walthers

PolishFinnish Aug 6, 2021

  1. PolishFinnish

    PolishFinnish TrainBoard Member

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    I'm working to build a consist representing the 1937 "Challenger".

    I'm kinda torn which brand to choose for the entire train. The train would consist of x2 - Paired window coaches and x5 - 14 section sleepers with the only modification being a blocked out vestibule. I plan on adding interior lighting, shades and correct interior colors.

    I have both models so I know the quality of the interior and the benefits/disadvantage of each.

    I was wondering if anyone had photos of their interior work (particularly of the branchline cars).

    I'm just so split on which to choose. The branchline is typically the budget friendly option.
     
  2. Mr. Trainiac

    Mr. Trainiac TrainBoard Member

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    I would recommend the Walthers model if you plan on adding interior lights. They have metal truck sideframes that easily accept pickups for light strips. The plastic Branchline trucks would require you to create brass axle wipers or swap the trucks for Walthers replacements.

    Any cost benefit of Branchline kits may be offset by a truck swap. You should price it out to see for yourself, as I'm just guesstimating here. Walthers heavyweight trucks are in the $10-15 range, and you may need to factor in shipping too. If you are fine with using the stock Branchline trucks, adding wipers is not that difficult.

    I would be more comfortable modifying a Branchline kit, as you could easily make the vestibule modifications before you install the side panels to the body core. Cutting and modifying a RTR Walthers car may be a bit more challenging.
     
  3. PolishFinnish

    PolishFinnish TrainBoard Member

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    Yea I was thinking that too about the walthers trucks. From what I heard the plastic axles played a factor, later versions of the kit had metal axles that apparently solved the issue.

    Someone had a bunch of branchline kits for sale about 3 years ago I bought like 12 for approx $10 - $12 each. Only bought one 14 section, wish I bought more. Hopefully I can scoop some up this weekend at a train show.

    Walthers kits are hard to come by and a pain to stake apart without breaking the tabs. That's a huge disadvantage to me. I wish they would offer them unassembled.
     

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