In mid November, based on recommendations in this forum, I sent an email to Harry Hieke at his website about a repaint of my Santa Fe 2353 A-B-A "growler". No response. I then emailed him at harrys_trains@comcast.net. Again no response. Does anyone know if Harry is still in business? Is there any other way to reach him? If not, is there anyone else I can try. I'm most concerned about my "B" unit that I foolishly tried to repaint when I was a teenager. I definitely need that repainted (or purchase a replacement shell). If that won't match the "A" units, then I would need a repaint of all three. Any advice would be appreciated.
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Check out Nostalgia Train Works (Steve Latta) in CA and Len Caparelli in NY or NJ
Bob, here is Harry's phone number: (856)625-5506.
I hope this helps.
Harry is a forum sponsor. Also, he's recently undertaken three big projects discussed on the forum: a base for the large Grand Central Terminal; a base for the smaller GCT; and, a model of Cincinnati Union Terminal.
It is very difficult, unless the painter is awfully lucky, to get a great paint match to PW F units. And even if he does get a really good match, the one painted piece will look odd with the original pieces because the new paint won't have the patina, box rubs, etc. that even the best maintained PW F units have.
If you are going to repaint one, may as well repaint all three. Personally, I'd shop for a used cab in comparable condition to the childhood units. I did this 10+ years ago when I wanted a B unit for my childhood 2356 AA's. Found one that worked perfectly in every respect.
Good luck with whatever you choose to do.
I had the same issue in the past with him. He's a forum sponsor, advertises on YouTube with an email address as a contact. I sent a rather "direct" email to him for one final attempt and got a response from his daughter I think.
Obviously he doesn't "need" the business!