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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 20:27:10 GMT -5
As the subject indicates, I haven't removed the training wheels... All tips, tricks, and comments wanted. This is my first attempt at locomotive detailing. I decided to start with two athearn BB SW1500. For this project I intend to avoid cutting and splicing, my plan is to add the regular details and apply a NS paint and decal scheme. I will add pictures as I progress.  |
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Post by jakeloyst on Feb 3, 2015 20:34:02 GMT -5
are you planning to remove the molded rad and front grills?
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 20:41:32 GMT -5
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 20:46:14 GMT -5
are you planning to remove the molded rad and front grills? Is there a production part that is available or would it require a custom built? Initially I hadn't intended to but it would be a good look if I can pull it off... |
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Post by jakeloyst on Feb 3, 2015 21:03:34 GMT -5
atlas part number 990217, is the topgrill and 990218 is the front grill, both are still available from the, and can be found on ebay as well, theyre only worth $1.50 each plus shipping, and the fit pretty nice
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Post by iomalley on Feb 3, 2015 21:16:01 GMT -5
Here's what you can do to that SW with just a modicum of parts...  This is a blue box model, factory paint (except for the UPY blockouts) with added brass stanchions, brass wire, horn, MU hoses, laser cut glass, air lines, grab irons, wipers etc etc.... I don't mean to slight Jake in any way (luv ya Jake!) but I think grille swaps are a bit out of your league, given the tools you show in your picture. I would think twice about personally removing the grillwork myself and I've been building models for over 30 years. With some good weathering and washes, you can make the grilles pop. |
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 21:44:57 GMT -5
Well in the interest of both good ideas... I am a novice and would not want to ruin a good shell, incidentally I have a ruined conrail sw1500 shell that acquired through a poor Evil-bay purchase that I could use as practice. As far as tools I have a dremel tool, and an assortment of bits and razors... is there a recommended or preferred tool for this grill removal?
Thanks for the good thoughts and advise, please keep it coming!
George |
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 23:31:44 GMT -5
Here is the damaged Con and my attempt at the removal of the upper grill...
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 3, 2015 23:35:10 GMT -5
 I was also able to get the needed holes drilled with the #80 bit on one of the shells. Never thought that I needed glasses until tonight and these tiny parts!!! Let me know how the butcher job on the con looks and I am going to see about ordering the required grills. Going to attempt to remove the front grill tomorrow. Thanks, George |
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Post by big train james on Feb 4, 2015 1:02:14 GMT -5
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Post by jakeloyst on Feb 4, 2015 20:32:22 GMT -5
That is a great unit she built, and shows very well, you don't need an expensive ready to run, just a blue box unit, some parts and time. That where I got the idea, for removing the grills off my units, and building the fan and housing to inside the front end. The cutout you did looks good, but one thing.... before you cut something out, get the replacement part, it is much easier to file it a bit bigger sometimes, than it is no make the hole smaller. I know all about those small parts..... have a magnifier lamp on my desk now, instead of a regular light. Good luck with the build.
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Post by icghogger on Feb 5, 2015 12:46:00 GMT -5
George, your Conrail unit is not too far along that you can't salvage it. The suggestion to use the Atlas parts is a good one. Lots of hands-on experience can be had in attempting such work!!
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efram
Chairman
Posts: 206
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Post by efram on Feb 5, 2015 13:25:20 GMT -5
I cannot see it in the picture, but are you going to add pilot details? Hoses, coupler cut bars, etc?
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Post by biggeorgeiv on Feb 6, 2015 14:36:51 GMT -5
I cannot see it in the picture, but are you going to add pilot details? Hoses, coupler cut bars, etc? Yes I have the Cal scale sw1500 detail pack. |
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rjm
Road Foreman
Iron Horses Forever
Posts: 92 
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Post by rjm on Feb 17, 2015 12:22:59 GMT -5
Try this search here on the board. "railbuilderdhd" is a member, has some great shots of his build.
RJ
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