I hope to add realistic hose/steamline/etc. detailing to the ends of streamlined Walthers and Rivarossi passenger cars, Pre-1974. As you can see here, these ends are in need of the “knick-knacks” for an added depth of realism.
To those of you that have added that type of detailing, I’m respectfully request that you please post your photos here for use as a visual reference, if you don’t mind. Also, your techniques for installation.
I know that the arrangements varied slightly between roads, manufacturers, and/or over the years. Although I’m modeling southeastern road cars, as well as New Haven 8600s, my intention is a basic, generalized appearance as I’m a bit of a freelancer and won’t fuss about tiny details…such as if a steam hose support bracket on an ACF unit is of a different style compared to that of a Budd car.
I use Cal-Scale #275 kits for this. They include steam, signal, and air lines. The plastic they use (Delrin?) is really forgiving and can take a few bumps. They also sometimes make contact between the cars on tighter curves and turnouts, and I have never had a problem with them breaking. Below are a couple of shots (not the best). I will TRY to get some shots of the underbody posted so you can see what I did.
I thought I had some info for you, but it turns out that what I have covers heavyweights.
I think Smitty has the right idea there. Those Cal-Scale parts add enough detail to keep that space from being bare without being too much detail to see. [:)]
I installed the steam lines a little further back than where they would be on the prototype, but I wanted to keep them clear of “stuff” like Kadee trip pins, and the air and siganl hoses from the passenger cars that they are coupled to.
Also, I have the Pullman book for the NH’s 8600’s. And while the drawings in the book are more like wishful thinking than total fact, the pictures are invaluable for “as delivered appearance” of the cars. I’ll see if I can scan a pic of the end of an 8600 and send it to you…if I a) find it, and b) remember. [:)]
Only bummer for me is that at $4.70 per kit, which does two cars, it still seems a bit on the pricey side for modelers detailing a fleet. So to do 12 passenger cars, the total without tax will be in the $30 range. But I’ll likely just take a breath and go for it.
Of course this is ordering direct from Walthers. I’ll research first and find out if any vendors in my state have them in stock, below MSRP.
I called Bowser on the 1-800 number and ordered the part directly from them. I gave the young lady the part number and price. The price she stated was actually higher, but I explained to her that I was looking at the web page and the price listed now is $2.95. She said she would honor that price but left me with the impression that the prices on the web page will likely be adjusted soon. BTW: Walthers lists the price at $4.70
So for those of you wanting to purchase these, you might want to go ahead and order them from Bowser directly. I ordered six sets which will be enough to do 12 passenger cars.
