Recently I purchased a new in the box MTH UP Alco C628. I consider myself very fortunate to find this model since it’s been on the shelf since December, 2002. In 1973 the Missabe was looking for motive power to help handle the increase taconite shipments brought about by the improved economy. EMD, their preferred power choice, was unable to fill orders for new locomotives until 1975. The Union Pacific sold 10 Century series Alco C630s to the Missabe to fill the void until the order of five SD38-2 could be delivered.
The Missabe painted over the UP markings, blocked out the first digit of the number designation and added simple DMIR markings to show ownership.
I have been busy assigning this model to the DM&IR. Had to removed all UP markings and modified the original 4 digit locomotive number to 3 digits. I lightly sanded out the markings using 400 emery paper and repainted areas with UP Armour Yellow from True-Color Paint. I made brass foot boards and epoxied them to the pilot. I moved the horn to the back, over the radiator. Missabe did this to prevented them from freezing up in the winter. Added a firecracker antenna to the cab roof and high MU stands to the front and rear pilots per prototype.
Since my model was a C628, I needed to modify the venting and create a larger hood bulge south of the cab. When Alco upgraded the horsepower of the Century series, a larger venting system was required. I was able to raid my junk supply box and find suitable pieces of styrene to create the illusion. When chipping away at the old venting, I was pleased to discover that it was an insert and not part of the original casting. MTH offers this model in both series, C628 & C630 and the only difference, is the style of the insert. I was able to reuse the insert after sanding and clean it up however, I added another piece of styrene to give the venting more bulge. I also gave the locomotive and pilots a fresh coat of UP Harbor Mist Gray. I added all weather cab windows which is a signature detail found on all Missabe hood units.
After posting a forum discussion on custom/making decals, I ended up buying water slide decal paper from Amazon and printed my own. I am very pleased with the way they turned out thanks to the advice and help I received from the forum. Thanks to all who responded!
I’m currently constructing brass, step bridges to add to the pilots. I will soon give the locomotive a coat of matte finish and then highlight the venting with some caulk dust and weather the entire locomotive.
As for now, does anyone know how I can get this Alco to blow prototypical black smoke???
Always fun to share and follow all the project posts. Lots of great projects are taking place! Hopefully, we will all be able to get out of the house someday in the coming months.
PS: Until then, I invite you to visit and follow the short programs that highlight the Lake Superior Railroad Museum’s collection:
https://www.youtube.com/playli...CSI4bn_W7nWrhgXlwtLu
Here are a few pics of the transformation:
Cheers, Dave