I’ve been tinkering with the Lionel 17600 NYC for a number of years. I model the B&A and Rutland and finally after 30 plus years some new custom run models are becoming available. Beth at PDT is offering a Rutland with the same number I have already done. So this one was heading for the workbench and I figured I’d try all the things I liked about my other versions and combine them all into one model. Each version I did I’d try a different detailing idea. I use the stock chassis with some metal support to stiffen it up, homemade aluminum Kadee mounts, Tomar Adlake LED lamps, a different smokestack and Atlas trucks. The stock body even though it features some molded in grabs. They look close to scale in size and they don’t bother me that they aren’t separately applied. What I always thought was the biggest issue looks wise compared to what’s being built today was the end railings, the molded in roof walks and the stamped steel ladder.
The roof walks were sanded flush and some Atlas boxcar ones replaced them. Prototypically they should have 4 boards. I didn’t want to mess with the cupola and it was easier to go with 3. The end railings were a funky way oversized shape and the plastic representation of a chain was molded in with them. I used Grab irons from Tichy Train Group, 032 phosphor bronze wire from them also to make the new railings. They are a snug fit in I believe 1/16 square brass hollow stock. You need to solder the railings into some short pieces which allows them to fit the factory holes.
Wood boards were added to the platform and some chain I’ve had forever. The new ladder was from Precision Scale along with the new brake wheel.
Side by side comparison. I did add a more scale chain to the other version. I found looking at photos. The Rutland numbered the cabooses over the door.
A fun project and these cars can be had pretty cheap these days. Truth be told. Once on the layout and trains are moving. None of this is all that noticeable. But you know it’s there.
