ATSF caboose paint question

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I haven’t done much model railroading work in ages so I have a question. Santa Fe cabeese used to be “Indian” red. Is that color now called “Santa Fe” red? I can’t seem to find Indian red in any hobby shops. Thanks, PF

2

The older 4 digit number cabooses were pretty much “boxcar red” or ATSF brown or similar shades. Floquil and I believe Polly S offers a good match. Later cabeese were more a bright red and unfortunately they are out of my modeling era and “I know nothinggggg” about them.

Mobilman44

3

First, a question…are you talking about the older cabeese (19xx class) or the CE-class rebuilds?

I haven’t ever seen anything labeled “Indian Red” as far as model paints. “Santa Fe Red” is quite common, and will be very close to what you’re looking for if you’re doing the rebuilds. Caboose Red will do in a pinch as well. I’d recommend Floquil or Polly Scale for the SF Red.

If you’re talking about the as-built versions, those were Mineral Red. Floquil or Polly Scale ATSF Mineral Red is what you’re looking for there.

Hope that helps!

4

Thanks guys. I’ll be doing rebuilds and wide visions. I thought the Santa Fe red looked about right. I painted a rebuild about thirty years ago and according to the Microscale decal sheet I have it was Indian red that I painted it. Thanks again for the help.