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"HONGZ" stands for HO scale, N scale, G scale, and Z scale.

Post your non-O scale stuff here!

Virginian EL-2B electrics assembly (cont) and more conifers.

Virginian EL-2B electrics.

Power units assembled and DC tested.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 87

0402 LED install.

2 LED's at the ladders.

Used canopy glue to secure them.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 88

Headlight.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 89

Marker (classification) lights.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 90

A 'slow' process; can only do a 'few at a time' and then let the glue dry for fear of disturbing other LED's.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 91

Signal checker used to insure LED's work and aren't 'shorting' on the brass superstructure.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 92

===================

Last 2 boxes of the one batch of 10 arrived.

10 more, yet, to arrive.

GNRW 2022 296

BEFORE:

GNRW 2022 297

AFTER:

About 4 boxes of trees (40 per box).

GNRW 2022 298

GNRW 2022 299

Area behind the trestle still needs to be 'conifer-ed'!

GNRW 2022 300

Attachments

Images (11)
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 87
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 88
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 89
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 90
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  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 92
  • GNRW 2022 296
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Virginian EL-2B electrics assembly (cont);

Window installation.

Another 'slow' process!

Cut out the side windows and made them long on the bottom for 'gluing' purposes.

Guess I should have put them on a 'dark' background for 'picture taking'!

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 93

First one had to be removed.

Used carpenters glue to secure the bottom of the 'window' but thought I'd use the 'heat shrink' gun to dry the glue faster but that only melted the plastic window!

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 94

A new window installed and glued.  I used some soft foam to keep the 'window' close to the 'window frame'.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 95

Outside view with foam.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 96

Could only do one side 'at a time' but, this time, I used the fluorescent light to help the glue dry faster.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 97

After both sides of the electrics had the 'windows' installed, did the front 'windows'.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 98

Again, only one side at a time.

This time I used 'canopy' glue in case I had some glue that would be visible, this glue dries clear.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 99

Other side done.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 100

Had to re-glue the label back on the box.

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Attachments

Images (9)
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 93
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  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 98
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 99
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 100
  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 101

Monthly GNRW operating session and Virginian EL-2B assembly.

Videos:

C&O 2-6-6-6 Allegheny departing Havre:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf5fqDOTkH8

T&P 2-10-4 at Marias pass:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riTAKSWi6kw

D&RGW L-131 2-8-8-2 passenger train and C&O H-8 2-6-6-6 freight drag.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbF05tiegh4

PRR centipedes passenger train departing Havre:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOcYfI92ndA

B&O E-1 A-B passenger train at Tye:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7iyW5eMUtA

NH I-5 4-6-4 at Hillyard:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6C5wSnMVX4

Usual pizza before 'trains'.

Bill brought some 'home made' cookies and roasted pecans and those 'disappeared' by the end of the evening!

GNRW OPS Nov 19 01

Bill operating the N&W J passenger train bypassing Seattle's freight yard.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 02

Seattle's roundhouse.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 03

Bob with the C&O H-8 2-6-6-6.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 04

N&W J at Tye.



GNRW OPS Nov 19 05

C&O H-8 freight drag.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 06

9 year old Nate getting his Milwaukee bi-polar 'ready' while Ben has the T&P 2-10-4 with some of his new freight cars that he brought with him.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 07

Nate operating the Milwaukee bi-polar electric.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 08

the 'J' at Willmar's water tower.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 09

The 'J' approaching Waverly.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 10

Nate and the bi-polar at Skykomish.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 11

GNRW OPS Nov 19 12

Bob's train at Chumstick canyon trestle.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 13

D&RGW L-131 2-8-8-2 passenger train bypassing Seattle's freight yard.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 14

Mark operating the L-131.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 15

Ben and the T&P 2-10-4 at Hillyard.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 16

GNRW OPS Nov 19 17

Bill and Mark.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 18

D&RGW at Skykomish.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 19

Joe busy as dispatcher.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 20

Nate's train at Marias pass.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 21

GNRW OPS Nov 19 22

Sometimes, easier to 'sit' after all that 'walking' to 'run the train'.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 23

Allegheny at Willmar.

There are 5 functioning water towers on the layout.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 24

The 'J' at Waverly.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 25

Allegheny at Waverly.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 26

GNRW OPS Nov 19 27

Bob and Bill.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 28

PRR centipedes and C&O 2-6-6-6.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 29

D&RGW L-131 at Willmar.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 30

Removing freight cars from 'in bound' tracks.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 31

While the engine goes to the roundhouse.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 32

Bill with the D&RGW passenger train at Hillyard.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 33

PRR centipedes approaching Havre.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 34

B&O E-1 A-B passenger train at Marias pass.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 35

Ben with N&W Y-6B freight drag.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 36

Centipede passenger train bypassing Seattle's freight yard.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 37

NH I-5 4-6-4 at Tumwater canyon trestle.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 38

Glacier.

GNRW OPS Nov 19 39

============

Virginian EL-2B electrics assembly.

Installing a TCS KAM-4 decoder.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 102

Just enough 'room' for the decoder under the 'drive system'.

Motor via the decoder functional; next to 'connect' the wires from the decoder to the LED's.

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 103

'smoked' one of the decoders.  Didn't notice that the brass motor bracket was 'just touching' one of the can motor's contacts!

virginian EL-2B electrics painted 104

============

Installed another decoder in the GN Z-6 4-6-6-4 that had a 'clicking' sound and all's 'good'.

GN Z-6 4001 31

Attachments

Images (43)
  • GNRW OPS Nov 19 01
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  • virginian EL-2B electrics painted 102
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  • GN Z-6 4001 31
Last edited by samparfitt

2 new deliveries.

Processed by UPS but 'handed off' to USPS and they delivered it on a Sunday!

A dealer had a 'black Friday' special with 28% off.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose and T&P 2-10-4.

====

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose imported by BLI (new release).

Video: Yard test.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3l2Zgfn9v4

Both are BLI's hybrid series where the boiler and tender superstructure are made from 'traditional' brass.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 01

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 02

Always well packaged to prevent damage.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 03

Usual 'clam shell' packaging.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 04

Bottom view.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 05

Nice brake rigging.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 06

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 07

Traditional 'draw bar' with 2 holes for the tender.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 08

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 09

Fireman's side.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 10

Wasn't expecting lighted 'number boards'.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 11

Full skirting version.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 12

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 14

Deck plate.

Tender in farthest draw bar hole....

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 15

Tender in nearest draw bar hole.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 16

Functioning light on the back of the cab roof.

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 18

Non-functioning red light.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 19

Top views.

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 21

'See through' vents.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 22

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 23

Nice cab detail.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 24

Engineer's side.

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 26

A chain on this side: not sure what that's 'for'!

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 30

Found 'something'  by accident....

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 31

Hinged smoke stack.

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SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 33

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 34

Programming track.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 35

I always go to 'open comprehensive programmer' page.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 36



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Basic page.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 39

Saved.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 40

I have a Tenshodo version (right in picture) that was imported in 1971 which has a TCS 1517 decoder, re-motored and LED's added.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 41

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 42

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 43

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 44

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 45

I added 'back head' detail.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 46

Tenshodo is a darker blue: I have no idea who is correct!

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 47

The 'smoke deflector' is, also, different.  Again, no idea which is correct.

SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 48

=======================

Texas & Pacific 2-10-4 imported by BLI (new release).

Video: yard test:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRtHOmw5-2Q





T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 01

Unusual 'warning' in box.

I guess this would be needed if the owner didn't have 'circuit breakers'.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 02

Bottom view.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 03

The center driver is blind which is not 'prototype'.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 04

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 05

The 'usual' BLI Lionel type 'connection' between engine and tender; I prefer the 'draw bar' style.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 06

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 07

Fireman's view.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 08

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 09

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 10

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 11

Nice cab detail.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 12

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 13

Top views.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 14

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 15

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 16

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 17

Engineer's view.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 18

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 19

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 20

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 21

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 22

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 23

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 24

Programming track.

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T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 26

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 27

I, also, have a Sunset model (right in picture) imported in 1978.

Painted, TCS 1517 decoder and LED's installed.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 28

All drivers 'flanged'.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 29

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 30

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 31

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 32

There was no T&P' decals available so I had to add each letter to the tender.

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 33

The BLI is a light grey and I was under the impression that T&P used a light green!

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 34

BLI has a 'dog house'!

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 35

The Sunset model is more detailed. Always fun 'hand painting' all the 'plumbing'!

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 36

T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 37



T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 38

Attachments

Images (86)
  • SF 4-6-4 Blue Goose BLI, 2022 01
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  • T&P 2-10-4 BLI 2022 01
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Last edited by samparfitt

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger imported by Tenshodo in 1999 repair (cont).

Masking for the UP dark grey and the fire box.

I used my Key models UP challenger as a reference.

No 'measurements' done; just used 'dividers' and the 'rivets' to locate 'masking locations'.

A lot of 'masking' just to put on very little paint!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 224

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 225

Used the 'torpedo' heater to warm up the detached shop.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 226

60 is 'good enough'.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 226A

Colors used.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 227

Used so little paint that I just diluted the paint in the 'air brush' bottle and then disposed of any remaining paint in this bottle (not wanting to contaminate or dilute the original bottle of paint).

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 228

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The 'graphite and oil' paint looks very fragile so this color is the last one that I apply.

I think it would 'pull up' if tape was applied to it.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 230

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UP 4-6-6-4 1999 232

'Striping' decals will be applied between the 2 paint colors.

Another 2 hours at 200 degrees.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 233

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 234

===============

Garbage 'digging'.

A very nice hard maple book shelf was next to the neighbor's garbage cans so I took it.

book shelf 01

Needed a place for my railroad books!

book shelf 02

Attachments

Images (14)
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 224
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 225
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 226
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 226A
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  • book shelf 01
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Last edited by samparfitt

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger imported by Tenshodo in 1999 repair (cont) and CNJ 4-6-4T disassembly.

==========

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger 'touch up' painting.

Black on the 'piping', red on the valve handles and brass on, well, the brass!

It, usually, takes about 3 'touch ups' plus 2 hours at 200 degrees, each time.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 235

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UP 4-6-6-4 1999 237

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And white on the 'dials'.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 239

======================

CNJ 4-6-4T imported by PFM (UNITED) in 1969.

Some warm weather for the next few days so I decided to paint this engine.

It's all black so should be an easy 'paint job'.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 03

Drilled out all the headlights and marker lights for LED's using a #57 drill bit in my hobby drill press.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 15

These old engines are built sturdy so no worry about 'twisting' the marker lights while drilling them.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 16

2 holes drilled under the running boards.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 17

Tender head light drilled and drilled 'right through' the marker lights into the back of the tender so it will be easy to insert the LED's.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 18

Disassembly.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 19

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 20

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 21

Attachments

Images (13)
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 235
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 236
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 237
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  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 03
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Last edited by samparfitt

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger imported by Tenshodo in 1999 repair (cont) and CNJ 4-6-4T painting and Nate's new engine

===========

9 hours later and I forgot to eat!

UP 4-6-6-4 2-tone challenger.

Decaling and clear coating.

2-tone UP steam gets silver with black outlines.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 240

Tender first.

Fun aligning that narrow decal!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 241

Much easier on the cab side!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 242

There wasn't enough stripes in the UP decal set so I bought thin silver stripes for the side of the 'running boards'.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 243

Insured the 2nd stripe is parallel to the first stripe.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 244

Running board was, also, fun to 'do'!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 245

I find it less likely to have corners 'fold' when applying them when they are cut at a 45 degree angle.

Nothing worse that trying to remove that 'fold' after the decal is on the surface!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 246

One side done.

Funny how I can't see those black outlines on the stripes and nomenclature!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 247

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 248

Had to use an old set of decals for the number boards.

Surprised Microscale didn't supply them in the correct size plus they didn't provide the nomenclature that goes under the cab numbers.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 249

Interesting.

When I, first, applied the dark grey it didn't look dark enough...

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 250

But now it does with the stripes added!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 251

A soft tissue used to pat, not rub, the decal to remove all water and then pressed to force the decal over any rivets.

Solvaset used, sparingly, to 'set' the decals.   Usually, 2 applications is sufficient.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 252

Took a lot of work getting to this 'stage'!

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 253

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 254

The 'Union Pacific' is suppose to be centered between the stripes.

The other side no problem.

This side had a large 'tool box' door protruding where part of the decal would 'be.

It would have looked ugly so I just raised the decal to get a 'clean look'.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 255

Happy with how the running board decals 'turned out'.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 256

While 'clear coating' the engine, the 'pressure' dome 'flew off' the needle nose tweezers and landed 'upside down' on the shop floor.  Had to strip it and re-paint it.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 257

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 258

200 degrees for 2 hours.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 259

==============

CNJ 4-6-4T painting.

A 'first': got this engine painted, decaled and clear coated in one day.

Of course it helped that there is no tender!

Cleaned all the parts with dish washing fluid.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 22

Used the 'air' to remove most of the water and then into the toaster oven for 15 minutes.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 23

Drilled holes in the 'tender' for either the 'sound' to escape or to install the speaker at this location.

There isn't a whole lot of room in this engine so the speaker will, probably, be located here with a 'soft foam' coal load.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 24

Also, drilled some holes in the frame in case the speaker can fit inside the boiler.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 25

2 coats of black, each at 200 degrees for 2 hours.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 26

I bought a set of champ decals plus I saw this 'dry transfer' decals so I, also, purchased them.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 26A

Have used these on my RC airplanes so they must be taped in place so, if all the 'decal' is not transferred to the surface, the decal can be place exactly in the same 'spot'.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 27

Tools of the trade for 'dry transfers'.  I usually use paper stumps from Michaels but I couldn't find them in my shop!

After the first pressure, do it a second time and then do it a third time as one, usually, misses getting all of the decal on the surface!

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 28

After 2 coats of black and 2 'bakings', the brass parts painted brass.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 29

Clear coated including the UP 'dome'.

CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 30

========

With Thanksgiving this Thursday, the Ross meeting was only 3 people and only Nate 'operated'.

We 're-programmed' his new diesel.



Ross meeting 01

Attachments

Images (31)
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 240
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 241
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 242
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 243
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 244
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 245
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 246
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 247
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 248
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 249
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 250
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 251
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 252
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 253
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 254
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 255
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 256
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 257
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 258
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 259
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 22
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 23
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 24
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 25
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 26
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 26A
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 27
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 28
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 29
  • CNJ 4-6-4T PFM 30
  • Ross meeting 01
Last edited by samparfitt

C&NW E-4 4-6-4 streamlined Hudson imported by Nickle plate products in 1975.

Disassembly and painting.

Disassembly.

Open frame motor will be replaced.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 22

Drilled holes in the bottom of the tender for the speaker.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 23

Drilled and filed the front of the tender for the decoder's 8 pin connector.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 24

I used this stuff on my RC planes and it's hardens like metal as it has metal in its composition.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 25

Used the JB weld to secure the back head that I installed from PSC (easier than trying to solder it to the boiler).

The 'kwik' JB weld hardens in 'minutes' as it's a 2 part epoxy.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 26

Drilled a hole in the 'back head' for the cab light.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 26A

Used soft rubber to hold the back head in place while the 'JB' cooked.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 27

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 28

Crew seats added; again, JB weld.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 29

Deck plate added.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 30

Soldered a new 'ladder' to the tender that was 'missing'.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 31

Initially, I didn't think the marker lights were large enough for the 0402 LED's but was able to drill them and make a 'straight' hole into the side of the boiler for routing the LED's.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 32

Ditto for the tender marker lights.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 33

'Dish washer' fluid cleaned and ready for painting.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 34

All the 'valve' gear had rivets so unable to disassemble it.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 35

Worked out better than I thought as easy to 'mask off' the 'silver plated' parts.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 36

Usually, screws are used to secure the truck side frames but these were all soldered so will have to let them 'air dry'.

Taped all the parts that conduct electricity.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 37

Used Scalecoat C&NW green for the boiler and tender and black for 'under carriage'.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 38

Air dry.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 39

This color is not what I was expecting!

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 40

All engines that I've seen factory painted is more this color.

I'll have to do some experimenting to duplicate this color.

Possibly I can add white to Pullman green and get this color or a mixture of the present C&NW green with Pullman green.

Any 'artists' out there, 'chime in'!

OM C&NW 4-6-4 painted 01

Attachments

Images (21)
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 22
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 23
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 24
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 25
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 26
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 26A
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 27
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 28
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 29
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 30
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 31
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 32
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 33
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 34
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 35
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 36
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 37
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 38
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 39
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 40
  • OM C&NW 4-6-4 painted 01
Last edited by samparfitt

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger imported by Tenshodo in 1999 repair (BEFORE/AFTER) plus painting/decaling the C&NW E-4 4-6-4 Hudson.

==========

BEFORE:

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 16

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 17

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 13

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 81

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 33



UP 4-6-6-4 1999 34

AFTER:

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 260

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 261

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 262



UP 4-6-6-4 1999 263

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 264

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 265

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 89

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 182

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 266

======================

C&NW E-4 -4-6-4 Hudson painting/decaling.

As, previously, mentioned the Scalecoat C&NW green was too bright so I needed to get creative.

I got advise from my daughter and another railroader on getting the correct color.

I started with the Scalecoat green and added red, yellow and black.

It looked like I had the matching color.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 41

I sprayed the color on a piece of brass and held it up to the picture of the engine on my PC and it looked 'right'.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 43

After painting the engine, though, it was too light.

I was getting 'kinda' close (obviously my required 'art' class in collage didn't help!).

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 44

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 45

By chance, I looked at my GN W-1 electric with Empire Green and it looked like it would 'work' if I added white to it.

GN W-1 custom brass 25

Added about 25% white.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 42

The 'too bright' on the tender versus the 'just right' (at least to my 'eyes') on the engine.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 46

Decaling.

Using Microscale yellow striping.

Can only do the bottom line until the engine and tender are assembled so I can align the stripes between the engine and tender.  I clear coated all the parts below the engine and tender, ie; frame, drivers, trucks so I can mount them to the engine and tender to get 'stripe alignment'.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 47

Got one side done.  The front lines all meet at a single 'point' so I'll do those last.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 48

========================

10 more bags of trees, 20 per bag: these are all the large trees (5.5").

Ordered them directly from the factory and they didn't use all those individual boxes for each set of trees.

GNRW 2022 301

Attachments

Images (26)
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 16
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 17
  • UP 4-6-6-4 2-tone grey 1999 13
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 33
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 34
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 260
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 261
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 262
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 263
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 264
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 265
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 266
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 41
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 42
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 43
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 44
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 45
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 46
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 47
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 48
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 13
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 81
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 89
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 182
  • GN W-1 custom brass 25
  • GNRW 2022 301
Last edited by samparfitt

Thanks Mark.

==============

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 streamlined imported by Nickel Plate Products in 1977, more conifers and Harrison, Ohio train show.

=============

GTW 4-8-4 disassembly and first 'coat'.



GTW U-4B 4-8-4 17

The front screw securing the frame to the boiler was 'butchered' by a previous owner so I used a Dremel metal cut off disk to make a 'slot' in the screw.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 18

Some 'plumbing' had to be re-soldered.

First, to the boiler...

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 19

and then the two pipes.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 20

Wheels and engine frame already factory painted.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 21

Speaker holes in the tender's bottom plate.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 22

Already a large 'hole' at the front of the tender for decoder wires but drilled out some holes at the back of the 'coal bunker' to route decoder wires.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 23

Tender light drilled for an LED.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 24

From my first experience with the C&NW 4-6-4 small marker lights, I did the same 'procedure' with these small marker lights, IE.

1) used a very small drill bit to drill through the marker lights and into the side of the boiler.

2) The needed #57 drill bit used to enlarge the marker light hole via a pin vise so not to 'rip off' the marker light with too much 'power'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 25

The smaller drill bit on the left and the #57 on the right.

The very small drill bit doesn't 'dig into' the marker light and 'twist it' off but the #57 can so a '2  step' procedure.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 26

I used the 'wire strippers' to hold the marker light to insure it doesn't 'twist' while, manually, enlarging the hole.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 27

'Ta da'!

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 28

Nice; wasn't expecting NPP to include a 'back head'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 29

Washed and ready to get the first 'coat'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 30

Scalecoat high gloss black.

2 hours at 200 degrees.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 31

What I'm hoping it will, eventually, 'look like'!



GTW Fomras painted 08

I use a paper towel to, immediately, wipe off the rim of the jar to prevent 'dry paint' falling into the bottle plus easier to get the jar lid 'off', the 'next time'.  The paint will dry very fast around the rim and wiping it quickly is important.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 32

===================

More trees.

Removed the 'golden rod' that was behind the trestle but before the upper track and replaced them with conifers with the 10 boxes of trees that just arrived.

GNRW 2022 302

=================

Harrison, Ohio train show.

Figured it wouldn't be very 'large' but only 40 miles away.

Mostly all 3-rail.

Harrison, Ohio 2022 01

Was a few tables with HO stuff.

Harrison, Ohio 2022 02

A foam 'layout'.

Harrison, Ohio 2022 03

Glad I 'went' as I purchased more books.

The dealer had 3 for a buck for these paper backs.  There were 53 of them so I bought all of them for 15 bucks.

Harrison, Ohio 2022 04

Harrison, Ohio 2022 05

These are really nice paper backs.  All 'steam' .

Harrison, Ohio 2022 05A

These are 'quarterlies'.  I've never seen them before but each one covers 2-4 subjects.

The ones I have are from around the 80's to early 2000's.

They weren't cheap as the back cover said $47 per year.

Harrison, Ohio 2022 05B

Very high quality pictures and lots' of them!

Harrison, Ohio 2022 05C

4 more for 5 bucks each.  I may already have the C&O book but, for 5 bucks, I bought it anyway; better 2 than none!

Harrison, Ohio 2022 06

Attachments

Images (27)
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 17
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 18
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 19
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 20
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 21
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 22
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 23
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 24
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 25
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 26
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 27
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 28
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 29
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 30
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 31
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 32
  • GNRW 2022 302
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 01
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 02
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 03
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 04
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 05
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 05A
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 05B
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 05C
  • Harrison, Ohio 2022 06
  • GTW Fomras painted 08
Last edited by samparfitt

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 streamlined imported by Nickel Plate Products in 1977 (masking and painting).

2 coats of black have, already, been applied.

Next was the grey boiler.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 33

The UP harbor mist grey (light) seemed to match the GTW grey.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 34



GTW U-4B 4-8-4 35

I left the masking tape on the 'walk boards' since they are suppose to be black.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 36

Usual water with tooth pick and Q-tip to remove any light 'over spray' before 'cooking' in the oven for 2 hours at 200 degrees.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 37

Masking for the green.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 38

This area was 'fun'!

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 39

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 40

I couldn't get any Scalecoat GTW green but Tru-color had it.

I believe this is a 'water base'.

I've never put a 'water base' color on an engine.

I've read where one can 'water' over 'enamel' but not vise versa.

Interesting in that the 'label' says to clean up with acetone.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 41

The CN green matches the color of this engine that I've seen painted.

I was thinking of adding white to Pullman green in my Scalecoat colors but I thought the 'water base' would work, plus it's an accurate color.  I didn't like using the 'water base' as I had to have the 'air brush' fully opened and, by the time I was starting to clean the 'air brush' the paint was drying already and I needed 'back pressure' to unclog it.  Solvent base paints are so much easier to 'clean up'.  I didn't want to add water to thin it, or alcohol, for fear the paint may be a dull color as I read 'online'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 42

I tested the 'water base' on the bottom of the tender as it would be easy to strip and 're-do'.

I put the part in the toaster over for 45 minutes and all looks 'good'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 43

I then painted the tender and boiler.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 44

I re-added this picture since the next one shows a 'blank' although one can see it by 'clicking' on it.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 45

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 45

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 46

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 47

ditto.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 48

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 48

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 49

One more:

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 50

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 50

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 51

Attachments

Images (22)
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 33
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 34
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 35
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 36
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 37
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 38
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 39
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 40
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 41
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 42
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 43
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 44
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 45
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 46
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 47
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 48
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 49
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 50
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 51
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 45
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 48
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 50
Last edited by samparfitt

Thanks, Mark.

================

C&NW E-4 4-6-4 painting and striping, GTW U-4B 4-8-4 striping and clear coat, Ross Club meeting.



=============

It took me 8 hours for the following.

C&NW E-4 4-6-4.

Masking for silver 'smoke deflectors'.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 49

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 50

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51

4th and final paint color added.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 52

Decals strips used for white and gold.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 53

============

GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

Yellow strips added and clear coated.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 52

Blurry but gauges and handles painted.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 53

Lots of 'time' and 'patience' doing this!

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54A

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 55

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 56

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57

=========

Ross meeting. 5 attended.

videos:

GN W-1 electric freight drag at Marias pass.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSk7Ml7_xEo

UP 2-tone 4-6-6-4 challenger freight at Havre:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTYegr6BUt8

Ross meeting 01

UP 2-tone 4-6-6-4 challenger by BLI.

Ross meeting 02

Bob.

Ross meeting 03

Hillyard.

Ross meeting 04

St. Paul.

Ross meeting 05

Ross meeting 06

Ross meeting 07

Glacier meet.

Ross meeting 08

Seattle's freight yard.

Ross meeting 09

Attachments

Images (21)
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 49
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 50
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 52
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 53
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 52
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 53
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54A
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 55
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 56
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57
  • Ross meeting 01
  • Ross meeting 02
  • Ross meeting 03
  • Ross meeting 04
  • Ross meeting 05
  • Ross meeting 06
  • Ross meeting 07
  • Ross meeting 08
  • Ross meeting 09

Thanks, Mark.

===========

C&NW E-4 4-6-4, GTW U-4B 4-8-4 and Ross club meeting.

==========

8 hours on striping, today!

C&NW E-4 4-6-4.

Masking for the 4th color of paint.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 49

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 50

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 52

White and gold decals.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 53

=========================

GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

Clear coated after striping applied.



GTW U-4B 4-8-4 52

Blurry but gauges and handles painted.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 53

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54A

Another 'fun' striping!

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 55

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 56

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57

==============

Ross club meeting. 5 attended.

Videos:

GN W-1 electric at Marias pass.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSk7Ml7_xEo

UP 2-tone challenger at Havre:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTYegr6BUt8



Ross meeting 01

UP 2-tone 4-6-6-4 challenger by BLI.

Ross meeting 02

Bob

Ross meeting 03



Ross meeting 03

Hillyard.

Ross meeting 04

St. Paul.

Ross meeting 05



Ross meeting 05

Ross meeting 05

Ross meeting 06

Ross meeting 07

Ross meeting 07

Meet at Glacier.

Ross meeting 08

Seattle's freight yard.

Gerry.

Ross meeting 09

Ross meeting 09

Attachments

Images (27)
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 49
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 50
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 52
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 53
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 52
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 53
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 54A
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 55
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 56
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57
  • Ross meeting 01
  • Ross meeting 02
  • Ross meeting 03
  • Ross meeting 04
  • Ross meeting 05
  • Ross meeting 06
  • Ross meeting 07
  • Ross meeting 08
  • Ross meeting 09
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 57
  • Ross meeting 05
  • Ross meeting 03
  • Ross meeting 05
  • Ross meeting 07
  • Ross meeting 09
Last edited by samparfitt

C&NW E-4 4-6-4, GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

Final striping and clear coat.

Very difficult to match a 'factory paint' job that has multiple 'striping' but I'm happy with the result.

Just 'kick me' should I ever mention that I want to paint a multi-striped steam engine!

===================

C&NW E-4 4-6-4.

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51A

C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51B

=====================

GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

Had to mask off the running board for the 'number plate'.

Since the green paint was a 'water base' I used the blue (low stick) tape for fear of pulling off the green paint.



GTW U-4B 4-8-4 58

Oxide red seem to match the decal back ground.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 59

After the striping on the engine and tender and white paint for the hand rails, the parts were clear coated.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 60

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 61

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 62

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 63

Had to cut each striping for each side of the rectangle.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 64

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 65

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 66

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 67

Attachments

Images (12)
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51A
  • C&NW 4-6-4 nickel plate 51B
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 58
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 59
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 60
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 61
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 62
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 63
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 64
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 65
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 66
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 67

Thanks, Mark.

==================

C&NW E-4 4-6-4, GTW U-4B 4-8-4 final striping and assembly.

=================

C&NW E-4 4-6-4.

The striping on the tender needs to align with the engine so all wheels need to be assembled to align the tender and engine striping.

Scraped off the paint on the frame where there is contact with the brass journals.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 58

At each stage, insure no binding.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 59

Side rods.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 60

Valve gear.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 61

I was surprised that the two bottom strips were aligned so easy to do the remaining 3 strips.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 62

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 63

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 64

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 65

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 66

Had to use 4 sets of decal sheets on this engine.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 67

Clear coated and 2 hours at 200 degrees.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68A

Used clear silicone caulk to secure new can motor to frame.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 69

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 70

============================

GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

The drivers and frame were already black so only had to attached the piston and valve assembly to the frame.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68

Check for binds.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 69

Motor installed and paint pen used to 'white wall' the drivers...

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 70

and all wheels.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 71

Bought some more decoders during 'black Friday' sales.

Got about 20 of these now for 'future' engines.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 72

New version.  My old ones are 4.0.

The two decoders I sent in for repair are done.

One was 'out of warranty' but only 41 bucks for the repair (better than paying $125 for a new one!)

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 73

Attachments

Images (20)
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 58
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 59
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 60
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 61
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 62
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 63
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 64
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 65
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 66
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 67
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68A
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 69
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 70
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 68
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 69
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 70
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 71
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 72
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 73
Last edited by samparfitt

Erie 0-8-8-0 camel back disassembly and painting, GTW 4-8-4 and Signaling fix (hopefully!).

Got a few things done today while watching college football!

==================

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 camelback.

Imported by Custom Brass in 1984.

The only articulated camelback engine ever made for any railroad plus Custom Brass only made 120 of them so not likely to see any on a model railroad!

This engine is all black so I thought I'd try something 'easy'!

DC test to make sure all's 'good'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 28

Tender disassembly.

Rectangular hole cut for decoder connectors.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 29

Tender is pretty small so holes drilled in case the speaker has to be placed in the 'coal' area.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 30

Small hole drilled in the bottom of the large (non incandescent type) light for the tender.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 31

The speaker holes were blocked by the tender 'mounting' plate.

Marked them and...

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 32

drilled new holes.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 33

much better!

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 34

Engine disassembly.

After front engine screw removed the two screws on 'each side' were removed....

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 35

plus the 2 screws at the rear of the engine.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 36

Engine light drilled plus another hole put into the boiler front just under the head light.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 37

Big ol' stubby motor.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 38

Everything disassembled.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 39

Parts that won't be 'cooked' into boxes (front and rear drivers).

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 40

Parts not to be painted into the engine box 'top'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 41

The 'rest' onto the toaster 'pan'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 42

After cleaned and all electrical parts masked, ready for painting.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 43

the 'usual' black.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 44

1st coat and 2 hours at 200 degrees.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 45

Air brush put on 'light' when 'shooting' the wheels.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 46

==============

GTW 4-8-4 assembly.

The tender trucks had a lot of 'slop' on one side due to that side's screws having a 'shoulder' so some very thin plastic used to 'bypass' the 'shoulder'.



GTW U-4B 4-8-4 74

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 75

Tested for no 'shorts' and 'free rolling'.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 76

================

For a second or 2, the signaling system has been showing trains in 2-3 blocks when there are none in those blocks.

signals RR-cirkits CB 114A

Joe and I suspect a bad 'CB' so I replaced it.

Ran a test with one train to insure the new CB detects the train properly; had to adjust 2 of the 'pots' to detect the caboose.

Will get a 'full size' test when multiple operators are 'running trains'!

signals RR-cirkits CB 115

Attachments

Images (24)
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 28
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 29
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 30
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 31
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 32
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 33
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 34
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 35
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 36
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 37
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 38
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 39
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 40
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 41
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 42
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 43
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 44
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 45
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 46
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 74
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 75
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 76
  • signals RR-cirkits CB 114A
  • signals RR-cirkits CB 115

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 camelback assembly and LED installs.

============

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 assembly.

Front and rear engines assembled.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 55

Tweezers used to insert driver springs.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 56

All tested for no binds, etc.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 57

===========

LED installs.

I use 0402 LED's which are about one grain of sand width by 2 grains of sand long (at most!).

A slow process as one has to wait for the canopy glue to dry securing the LED's before installing additional LED's; doing multiple engines at once 'speeds up the process'.

Headlight: engine and tender on the Erie.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 57A

Running board lights and cab light.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 58

============

GTW U-4B 4-8-4:

LED installs.

Headlight: 2 in the engine and 2 in the tender.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 77

Tender marker lights.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 78

Engine marker lights.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 79

Running board lights.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 80

==============

UP 4-6-6-4 challenger:

Running board lights and cab light.

UP 4-6-6-4 1999 267

Attachments

Images (10)
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 55
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 56
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 57
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 57A
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 58
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 77
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 78
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 79
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 80
  • UP 4-6-6-4 1999 267

Springfield, Ohio train show, NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting layout visits and 'booty'.

===========

A great day: 9 hours of train 'stuff'

Springfield, Ohio train show. A 'one day' show.

Miles: 60

2 large halls plus another large hall connecting the 2 buildings: at the 'fair grounds'.

1st building.

Springfield Fall 2022 01

Springfield Fall 2022 02

Some really old stuff.

Springfield Fall 2022 03

Springfield Fall 2022 04

Arnald had a hobby shop in Middletown, Ohio back last century.

Springfield Fall 2022 05

Springfield Fall 2022 06

Springfield Fall 2022 07

Springfield Fall 2022 08

For those who collects old stuff.

My first HO train was a Gilbert Hudson (with smoke) freight set in a beveled box.

Springfield Fall 2022 09

Springfield Fall 2022 10

Springfield Fall 2022 11

Something different.

Springfield Fall 2022 12

Springfield Fall 2022 13

Springfield Fall 2022 14

Dual gauge on this layout.

Springfield Fall 2022 15

Pre war: don't know if it was restored but 'looks' mint.

Springfield Fall 2022 16

Springfield Fall 2022 17

Center hall between the 2 buidings.

Springfield Fall 2022 18

Springfield Fall 2022 19

Springfield Fall 2022 20

Springfield Fall 2022 21

I believe this was N narrow gauge.

Springfield Fall 2022 22

2nd building.

Springfield Fall 2022 23

Springfield Fall 2022 24

Springfield Fall 2022 25

Springfield Fall 2022 26

Springfield Fall 2022 27

A few S gauge scale stuff.

Springfield Fall 2022 28

Americana:

Xenia, Ohio.

Americana 01

Americana 02

Huge ranch house.

Americana 03

Believe this is a twin beachcraft D-18 on the 'front lawn'!

Americana 04

=============

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting.

Went to the meeting after the train show.

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 01

Awards.

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 02

Contest tables.

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 03

One small 'layout'!

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 04

Free food for December's meeting

NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 05

==========

Roy Allen's D&RGW G scale layout.

videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRMYX_f5ni8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oixex4s_wy4



Roy Allan's D&RGW 01

Roy Allan's D&RGW 02

Roy Allan's D&RGW 03

Roy Allan's D&RGW 04

Roy Allan's D&RGW 05

Roy Allan's D&RGW 06

Roy Allan's D&RGW 07

Roy Allan's D&RGW 08

Roy Allan's D&RGW 09

Roy Allan's D&RGW 10

Roy Allan's D&RGW 11

Roy Allan's D&RGW 12

Roy Allan's D&RGW 13

Roy Allan's D&RGW 14

Roy Allan's D&RGW 15

Roy Allan's D&RGW 16

Roy Allan's D&RGW 17

Roy Allan's D&RGW 18

Functioning 'lift pins'.

Roy Allan's D&RGW 19

My HO steam has 1 spring per axle, this has 3!

Roy Allan's D&RGW 20

===============

Bob Shaw's C&O layout.

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 01

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 02

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 03

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 04

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 05

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 06

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 07

A 'timer' routes the layout to 'night'.

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 08

Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 09

=============

Booty.

Picked up a Con-Cor PRR aero train plus a 3 car 'add on'

He had a very reasonable price for the set.  I, probably, could have gotten it a little cheaper but I gave him what he asked as I didn't want to 'insult him' since he, initially, offered a very good price for them.

Brand new, never been used.

Made in 2008.  The 2 sets weren't cheap back in 2008 as they listed for $650 for the 2 sets.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 01

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 02

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 03

Had all the 'paper work'.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 04

3 car 'add on'.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 05

Surprised how heavy the engine weighed!

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 06

Male end.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 07

Female end.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 08

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 09

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 10

Very cool: magnets pulled the 2 cars together.  Nice 'closed' fit between cars.

Will need to get a decoder for them.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 11

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 12

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 13

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 14

I have the Con-Cor Burlington set where I installed a TCS WOW diesel decoder.

Burlington Zephyr 1934 13

===========

Did pick up 2 freight cars.

The box is an all metal from the 50's and the covered hopper is a nice all wood kit.

freight cars 01

Attachments

Images (82)
  • Springfield Fall 2022 01
  • Springfield Fall 2022 02
  • Springfield Fall 2022 03
  • Springfield Fall 2022 04
  • Springfield Fall 2022 05
  • Springfield Fall 2022 06
  • Springfield Fall 2022 07
  • Springfield Fall 2022 08
  • Springfield Fall 2022 09
  • Springfield Fall 2022 10
  • Springfield Fall 2022 11
  • Springfield Fall 2022 12
  • Springfield Fall 2022 13
  • Springfield Fall 2022 14
  • Springfield Fall 2022 15
  • Springfield Fall 2022 16
  • Springfield Fall 2022 17
  • Springfield Fall 2022 18
  • Springfield Fall 2022 19
  • Springfield Fall 2022 20
  • Springfield Fall 2022 21
  • Springfield Fall 2022 22
  • Springfield Fall 2022 23
  • Springfield Fall 2022 24
  • Springfield Fall 2022 25
  • Springfield Fall 2022 26
  • Springfield Fall 2022 27
  • Springfield Fall 2022 28
  • Americana 01
  • Americana 02
  • Americana 03
  • Americana 04
  • NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 01
  • NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 02
  • NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 03
  • NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 04
  • NMRA MCR DIV 7 meeting 05
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 01
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 02
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 03
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 04
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 05
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 06
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 07
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 08
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 09
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 10
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 11
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 12
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 13
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 14
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 15
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 16
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 17
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 18
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 19
  • Roy Allan's D&RGW 20
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 01
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 02
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 03
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 04
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 05
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 06
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 07
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 08
  • Bob Shaw's C&O railroad 09
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 01
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 02
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 03
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 04
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 05
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 06
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 07
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 08
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 09
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 10
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 11
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 12
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 13
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 14
  • Burlington Zephyr 1934 13
  • freight cars 01
Last edited by samparfitt

Mark,

Div 7 has around 65 registered layouts.

Cleveland and Cincinnati are 'big' modeling cities.

===================

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 decoder install and Ross club's modular layout at Liberty Way shopping mall.

========

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0.

LED's have, already, been glued 'in place'.

I make my own connectors.

There are 50 pins on a connector and I cut them into either 8 pin or 4 pin connectors.

These are very small connectors as 8 pins are less than a 1/2" wide.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 59

Each 'cut' results in one pin lost so I can get four 8-pin and three 4-pin connectors for one 'strip'.

Marked white to insure proper 'connection orientation'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 60

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 61

For 'some reason' I keep the 'cut' pins!

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 62

One type of speaker that I use.

This tender is small so it gets a 'sugar cube' speaker.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 63

My 'wiring order' for tender to engine and engine frame to engine boiler.

Every engine is wired the 'same way'.

I need an 8 pin connector as I, usually, have LED's to the headlight (engine/tender), marker lights (engine/tender), cab light, running board lights and fire box glow.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 64

A 'fine point' is used to solder all connections.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 65

First 4 soldered.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 66

Then heat shrink tubing.

As with an extension cord, the 'tender' side connector is the female side.

One doesn't want to put the tender on the track and have 'extensions' touching the track, etc. if the tender is not connected to the engine.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 67

Then the last 4 wires are soldered and then each set of 4 wires are 'heat shrink' to resemble air/water hoses.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 68

TCS 1517 WOW 101 steam decoder.

Each end of wires has it's own connector so the decoder can, easily, be added/removed.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 69

Wire harness can slide into the tender so it's not 'seen'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 70

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 71

Other side of the connector is next.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 72

About 5" are cut for the 'engine' side connector.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 73

Male side done with heat shrink added.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 74

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 75

The 8 wires connected to the engine with 4 going to the boiler for headlight, marker lights, cab light.

The fire box glow LED bypasses the decoder so I can tell when the engine has power because the fire box will glow before 'inputting' the engine address on the throttle.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 76



Boiler 4-pin connector.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 77

===============

Ross club's modular layout setup at Liberty Way mall until Dec 23.

A large L shaped layout.

Ross Liberty 2022 01


Ross Liberty 2022 02



Ross Liberty 2022 03



Ross Liberty 2022 04



Ross Liberty 2022 05

Ross Liberty 2022 06

'Railfans' camera's 'flashing' when the train passes.

Ross Liberty 2022 07

Attachments

Images (30)
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 59
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 60
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 61
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 62
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 63
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 64
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 65
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 66
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 67
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 68
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 69
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 70
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 71
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 72
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 73
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 74
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 75
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 76
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 77
  • Ross Liberty 2022 01
  • Ross Liberty 2022 02
  • Ross Liberty 2022 03
  • Ross Liberty 2022 04
  • Ross Liberty 2022 05
  • Ross Liberty 2022 06
  • Ross Liberty 2022 07
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 72
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 76
  • Ross Liberty 2022 02
  • Ross Liberty 2022 04
Last edited by samparfitt

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 'camel back' final assembly and PRR Aero train yard test.

===========

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0.

Erie was the only railroad ever to order an articulated 'camel back' and they only had 3 of them.

Video:

Yard test:

With all the LED wires I wasn't able to put any weight in the boiler thus, it won't be pulling very many cars but it will look 'cool'

Normally, the front of the boiler is removable but it appeared to be 'soldered' in place so any insertion of 'lead' weight would be difficult.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRker9amJDM

Back set of drivers with motor and tender put on programming track.

Besides inputting the engine address, all LED's were set to 'constant dim'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 78

Data saved.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 79

All LED wires taped to the top of the boiler and routed to the back of the engine.

Used 'heat shrink' tubing to protect the wires.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 80

Had to drill two holes in each of the 'supporting' brass walls to route the LED wires to insure they didn't get 'tangled' with the universal drive mechanism.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 81

All LED wires 'heat shrunk'.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 82

Boiler side of the 4-pin connector.  Everything is made 'modular' for 'ease' of PM.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 83

Boiler and engine wire harnesses.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 84

Assembly complete.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 85

Running board lights.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 86

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 87

A cab light was added but not easy to see.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 88

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 89

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 90

ARGG:  Before painting the engine, I drilled out a hole for an LED for the fireman and forgot to 'add it'!

As mentioned, previously, the fire box LED bypasses the decoder so I can tell when the track has 'power'; ie. when an engine is in a 'round house' track.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 91

Connector slid into the tender with wires protruding as 'air/water' lines.

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 92

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 93

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 94

Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 95

I painted one of these engines for Phil Barnett back in the 80's who passed away a few years ago.

He modeled the Erie.

1980's 09

Bill Warrick had a very nice large UP layout in Monroe, Ohio.  He passed away a good 10-15 years ago.

1980's 10



==============

PRR Aero train by Con-Cor from 2008.

video:

Yard test:

Very quite and smooth running train.

A DC test run.  A TCS diesel decoder has been ordered for this train.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-TlmrYBu4g

Engine has multiple LED head lights plus a cab light.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 15

Interior with lights.

From what I read, the passenger cars were converted from a 'bus' frame and did not ride 'well'.

PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 16

Attachments

Images (22)
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 78
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 79
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 80
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 81
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 82
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 83
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 84
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 85
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 86
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 87
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 88
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 89
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 90
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 91
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 92
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 93
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 94
  • Erie L-1 0-8-8-0 Custom Brass 95
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 15
  • PRR Aero train plus 3 car add on 16
  • 1980's 09
  • 1980's 10
Last edited by samparfitt

C&NW E-4 4-6-4 decoder install.

Video:

Yard test:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6vVeUnej08

A few weeks ago I finished up the striping on the tender.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 73

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 74

TCS 1517 decoder installed.

Back when I had the PFM sound system I used their speakers.  I still have a dozen, or so, and I like them as they produce the low frequency sounds very well.

Normally, I solder the 'ground' wire to the inside of the tender but there were no brass wires inside the tender and I didn't want to damage the paint by trying to solder a wire to the tender's 'shell', thus, the 'ground' wire was soldered to the 'running gear'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 75

The PFM speakers came in a clear plastic case (edge and facing).

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 76

Tender completed.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 77

All the LED's were, previously, glued to their respective places.

All LED's are checked to insure they are not 'grounded' to the boiler frame which will cause them to, immediately, 'blow out'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 78

This signal tester provides a low, safe voltage as I run an extra wire to the 'boiler' to insure the LED's do not 'get brighter' or 'dimmer' indicating an LED is 'grounded'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 79

Double headlights.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 80

Cab light is 'linked' with the headlight.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 81

I always used green for the engine marker lights to give it some 'bling'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 82

Never have too much 'heat shrink' tubing!

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 83

Routed the LED wires through 'heat shrink' tubing to protect them.  They are not 'heated'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 84

Several pieces of short 'heat shrink' tubing to route to the top of the boiler for the 'running board' lights.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 85

All the wires come to just 4 wires.  Blue (hot), Green (marker lights), white (headlight and cab) and pink (running board lights).

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 86

4-pin connector.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 87

Engine came with one weight.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 88

There isn't a lot of room for extra weight so this engine will not be pulling a lot of cars, especially since it's only a 4-6-4.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 89

Ready to be assembled.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 90

Programming track. 

You know the decoder is being updated when it moves momentarily, several times.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 91

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 92

Upload complete.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 93

Kapton tape to insure the motor doesn't ground to the boiler.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 94

Nice looking engine.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 95

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 96

Running board lights.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 97

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 98

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 99

I installed a 'back head' and 'deck plate'.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 100

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 101

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 102

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 103

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 104

Two 'down' and about 8-10 more engine that have been painted but need decoder's installed.

C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 105

Since the 'bulk' of my engines have TCS decoders, a reference is at the bottom of each of my throttles.

With the TCS decoder, one doesn't have to reduce the speed to stop: only apply the brakes (F7) and then release the brakes (F6) will allow the engine to resume the 'original' speed. 

All lights are independently controlled via function keys so they can be turned 'on' or 'off'.

Throttle keys 01

Attachments

Images (34)
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 73
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 74
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 75
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 76
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 77
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 78
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 79
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 80
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 81
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 82
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 83
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 84
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 85
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 86
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 87
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 88
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 89
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 90
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 91
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 92
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 93
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 94
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 95
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 96
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 97
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 98
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 99
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 100
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 101
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 102
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 103
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 104
  • C&NW 4-6-4 Nickel plate 105
  • Throttle keys 01

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 decoder install and new delivery.

======

GTW U-4B 4-8-4.

Installing a TCS 1517 decoder with LED's.

LED wires are extremely small and my 'wire strippers' are useless so I have found that putting an X-acto blade on the wire and then pulling the wire (and not the blade) will strip off the insulation.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 81

Tender done.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 82

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 83

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 84

Had to route the connector and wires through the 'coal bunker' so the connector can be hidden inside the 'coal bunker' since that area was, already, open.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 85

Glad I drilled some holes in the 'coal bunker' before painting as I had to route the wires through the holes.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 86

Engine boiler had a hole under the deck so I routed the wires through that hole.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 87

This engine is unusual in that the motor is in the middle of the boiler instead of at the rear plus there were multiple pieces of brass spanning the bottom of the boiler.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 88

I had to reverse the 4-pin connector that, usually, goes from the frame to the boiler to a 3-pin connector from the boiler to the frame.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 89

There's, also, an 'ash pan' that is held in place by the frame and, also, forces all wires to go to the center of the boiler.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 90

Wiring complete.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 91

Had to caulk the 'fire box' glow LED to the boiler instead of the usual place on the frame.

The 'fire box' LED is always a 3 MM LED versus the 0402 LED for the rest of the lighting.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 92

I screwed 'something up' as I'm getting a 'short' on the 'programming track'.

Will have to diagnose later as I have other things to do.

GTW U-4B 4-8-4 93

======================

New delivery.

UP 4-8-8-4 big boy made by Tenshodo in 1961.

Tenshodo made some others in 1958 but, what I've read, they only had the back set of drivers 'powered'.

This engine has both set of drivers 'powered' so I'm guessing it was made in 1961.

This is one of the first 'hand crafted' big boy's made.

videos:

Testing the back set of drivers with new tubing added but keeping the original open frame motor.

Surprised at how quiet the mechanism is, as I was expecting a lot of 'grinding' considering this engine is 61 years old!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV0BaM5C3cE

Both sets of drivers 'yard test':

Again, very quiet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEewdj0p5W0

The engine and tender came in 2 boxes.

The 'staples on the end of the box indicates it is an early model.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 01

No foam, just cardboard for 'protection'.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 02

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 03

The engine box had a wood base platform.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 04

Items that indicate a very early run.

A blue 'Tenshodo' label on the driver retaining plate.

From the appearance of the drivers, I don't think this engine had any run time, except maybe a 'short' yard test run.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 05

The inside of the cab has this label.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 06

The tender has this label.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 07

Disassembly to replace the rubber tubing.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 08

The back engine has number '120' stamped on it....

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 09

as well as the back of the cab under the deck (if you can read it with the blurry picture!).

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 10

Tubing replaced.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 11

I put some 'heat shrink' tubing over the 'rubber' tubing to strengthen it.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 12

There was about a 1/4" gap between the front and back gear boxes so I put a piece of 'metal' tubing in the 'rubber' tubing.

I have other things to get done and will get back to pictures of the engine assembled and comparing it to my 1981 Tenshodo big boy.

UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 13

Attachments

Images (26)
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 81
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 82
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 83
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 84
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 85
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 86
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 87
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 88
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 89
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 90
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 91
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 92
  • GTW U-4B 4-8-4 93
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 01
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 02
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 03
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 04
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 05
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 06
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 07
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 08
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 09
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 10
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 11
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 12
  • UP big boy 4-8-8-4 Tenshodo 1961 13

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