Post by EMDX6043 on Nov 5, 2018 12:16:24 GMT -5
Colder days and rainy weather usually lead to something productive happening. I bought these two Bowser units a few months ago, both from the factory with incredible detailing and ESU Loksound installed. All I did before weathering was add new sound files to get low idle (5571) and a silenced exhaust w/ low idle (6053). Whether that's proto or not I don't know, but they sound great. I wanted to add figures to the 6053 and paint both cab interiors and seats, but I chickened out and figured that I should leave well enough alone...for now.
Mirrors were also adjusted to proper trailing unit position per obsessive-compulsive engineer habits.
5571 got heavier weathering, starting with a very thin, repeated wash of alcohol with black/brown india ink, then standard applications of craft paint and powders sealed with flat clear acrylic. 6053 didn't receive the wash, however. I also masked off a battery box on the 6053 to denote a replacement part, but the contrast didn't show up very well for the photographs. 5571's weathering didn't show up as heavy as it looks in person, too.
For exhaust, I used a wet/dry technique. I spray on the flat acrylic, then stipple on black "soot" and repeat until I reach the desired effect. There's a subtle difference in pattern to suggest which unit typically leads-i.e. 5571 has more towards the cab than the rear.
6053 also received a Sergent type F since she'll be leading more often, and I don't have to worry about compatibility with Kadee couplers. They're a huge improvement, but I can see them being a bit fiddly for anyone that does a lot of switching.
I can't believe how incredible the detailing has gotten on these things. There's almost nothing for me to do! Oh yeah, 6053 has two white stripes missing from the anticlimber...deal with it.
