Alright, I’m gonna take my first steps towards building my first locomotive (F2A numbered 700 for my railroad, California and Pacific).I’m getting the big things out of the way first (handrails, the shell, fans, and the horn), and I already ran into a problem. Seeing as I’m a really freak for lighting, I want to make the number boards light up. But, there’s no aftermarket glass (that I’ve found, at least), so any advice on fabricating it?
EDIT: Seeing the rarity of the chicken wire grille, I’m most likely to make a F7. Come to think of it, that might work better than a F2, because I’m also planning on slapping together some SP F7’s (possiby some SF Warbonnets), too. I will make number 700, but maybe at a later time (maybe when that grille is easier to get).
Highliner parts are available on a sporadic basis at best. Ebay may be your best option.
Granted, not a very economical option. You could certainly file and sand your own clear styrene to fit. Like you, I also enjoy seeing lighted number boards.
You might try these guys too. You didn’t specify which shell you are using but LaserKit has quite a selection. Their stuff fits incredibly well. Often no glue is required, but you have to get the right match.
I have never tried this for a “number board” that is lit but I have used it for a replacement Athearn GP38 number board as well as an RDC window and I might give the lit number board a go!
Hollow out carefully the plastic in the numberboards on the loco shell by drilling and cleaning up.
Cover the openings with masking tape on the outside and ensure they are tight
From the inside, pour in some clear drying PVA glue and allow to dry perhaps one at a time to keep the glue level.
Remove the masking tape and the lens cover should be clear.
5 I make my own number boards but in this case I would use printer compatible overhead transparency material and print the numbers as you want them. Cut them out and a tiny amount of PVA should be enough to hold them.
I used the term PVA glue as the brand names are very likely to be different between Australia, Canada and the US. Selleys Aquadhere is the most popular brand here. I would think you could go into a craft shop and ask for craft glue. It is usually white and dries clear but woodworking variants can be a yellow colour
Canopy glue AFAIK is a glue for avoiding smears etc on model airplane canopies although I have never had cause to seek it out.
