Locomotive Tips

 

Tip # 1 - Weathering your Locomotive
If you prefer light weathering, try this approach: Dilute dirt or mud colored paint, and brush it on the pilot trucks and underbody of the locomotive. Dry brush black paint on the roof to simulate diesel smoke.

(Dry brushing is done by applying a very small amount of paint with a dry paintbrush. Dip your brush lightly in the paint, then wipe most of the paint off on a rag or towel)

Complete the weathering by adding a black "wash" to the body of the locomotive.

Make a black "wash" by mixing a small amount of water soluble black paint with water. Lightly brush over the surface of the model. The wash will slightly dull the paint and the black will collect in the crevices and cracks. This will add realism by simulating depth and shadows.

If you are doing grills or similar objects, allow the paint to almost dry and then gently wipe off the high spots with a soft cloth. This will leave the black wash only in the recessed areas and emphasize the details and relief of the object.


Tip # 2 - Enhance The Effect With Real Coal
Add a realistic touch to your steam engines by using real coal in the tenders. Using a brush, apply white glue on top of the molded plastic "coal" in the tender. (You can get real coal very fine from any place that sells aquariums. They use it for filters.)

Sprinkle a thin layer of coal on top of the glue. Pat the coal firmly into the glue. Let it dry and gently shake off the excess coal.


Tip # 3 - Replacing Damaged Coupler
On rare occasions when car couplers accidentally break, replace them following these instructions. Remove the damaged coupler first. Just pry back the pivot pin with a small screwdriver and pull the coupler out of the pocket. Reverse the procedure to install the new coupler. Make sure the uncoupling pin points toward the bottom of the truck. Your car or engine is now ready to return to active service.


Tip # 4 - Flat Finish For Locos
Most locos are painted to simulate the shiny new of diesels fresh from the shop. But once out on the line, real locos get dusty looking. You can make model locos look this way with dull finish spray for models. Remove the loco shell from the chassis before spraying. The spray finish may harm power pick-ups and motor; make sure you follow paint maker's instructions.


Tip # 5 - Build A Tourist Railroad
As railroads have moved to diesel and electric locomotives, many old steam locos have been restored for use on scenic railroads. These tourist attractions, usually in rural areas, often have their own trackage and use old passenger cars, or even freight cars to carry passengers. You can model this using 4-8-0 or 2-6-0 steam engine. A flat car with the load removed can carry passengers. Glue benches and people to the flat car. Make sure you have rails around the flat car so no one falls off! Make sure that your Train Station has that tourist look. There needs to be a place to buy tickets and for the tourists to wait to board the train. Don't forget signs, lights, and the tourists.

Tip # 6 - Vaseline For Lubricant

When you do that periodic tune up on your loco's, I have found that common Vaseline is the right consistency to lubricate gears in your locomotive. Don't over apply it though, you don't want it flying all over the place when that gear spins up to speed.