Locomotive Numberboard Display Question

Trains Magazine General Discussion
1

I would like to try and get around to mounting and displaying a few numberboards I’ve got, and I have a specific way I want to do it. Once upon a time the DM&IR diesel house guys made a display out of the DM&IR (B&LE) 892’s board for their foreman before it became the DMIR #215. It sat flush in a wood box, complete with lights inside and gaskets, and painted half orange and half black just as it sat on the locomotive. Has anyone done anything like this? Any idea the kind of wood to use or tips for lighting? I just moved to Montana last fall so I don’t have any heavy duty tools like miter saws or the ilk yet, but I do have a garage to work on stuff. I would imagine making the box would be easy enough, but carving out the wood in the exact curve of the boards seems very daunting! Any tips? I’m hoping there will be an easier way than using a jigsaw but can’t think of any at the moment!

2

I would say a bandsaw or jigsaw would be just the ticket - much easier than using a plane or a rasp.

I’d go with a hardwood.

BUT, might I suggest that you check with local vocational schools, or even the local high school, if they still teach shop. They probably do have the tools you need, and might even take on the entire project, if you can provide sufficient guidance, as well as the materials.

And they’ll be doing it for a grade, so you’d be likely to see some nice work.

3

Some tool/ equipment rental shops will rent sabre saws, drills, and the like.

  • PDN.
4

Depending on what part of Montana the OP is living in, the nearest vocational school may be a fur distance away. OTOH, he may have neighbors with all sorts of tools.

5

Good news! With Jigsaws being reasonably priced I picked one up and got quite a start into this project! Just need to cut a little more plywood, paint, add the lighting and it will be done!

6

Well I hope we get to see some pictures.

7

Good news ! Recommend using a fluorescent tube/ lamp and fixture to light it evenly and with low heat given off. They come in small lengths like 8" to 18" or so ‘off-the-shelf’. A ‘warm white’ bulb color would look more ‘railroady’ than a cool white one.

  • PDN.