TKM No. 51 10-07 PDF
Transcription
TKM No. 51 10-07 PDF
Number 51 October 2007 Modeling the PRR’s Box Car Fleet Part 5 - the X56 Prototype Overview and Part 5A Modeling. Modeling the PRR’s Baldwin RS-12, Class BS-12as Readers’ Gallery – Open & Covered Hoppers THE KEYSTONE MODELER 1 OCTOBER 2007 A publication of the PRRT&HS for the purpose of disseminating PRR modeling information. Copyright © 2007 The Pennsylvania Railroad Historical and Technical Society – All Rights Reserved. May be reproduced for personal use only. Not for sale other than by the PRRT&HS. Editor - Al Buchan [email protected] Associate Editor - Jack Consoli [email protected] Assistant Editor - Jim Hunter [email protected] New Products and Product Reviews Editor - Greg Martin [email protected] Chairman Modeling Committee - Elden Gatwood [email protected] Send comments and corrections to the Editor at: [email protected] Manuscripts and photographs submitted for publication are welcome. Materials submitted are considered to be gratis and no reimbursement will be made to the author or the photographer(s) or his/her representative(s). The Society reserves the right to reject, for any reason, any material submitted for publication. Please contact the editor for information and guidelines for submission. If you submit photos send, preferably at 800x600, not less than 640x480 preferable in TIFF format. Statements and opinions made are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the Society. Cover Photo – Top, Elden Gatwood’s Stewart HO-scale class BS-12as. Elden Gatwood photo. Middle, Tom Haag’s reworked Branchline HO-scale class X56. Tom Haag photo. Bottom, Larry Lawler’s Atlas HO-scale class H42. Ben Hom photo. OFFICERS President Vice President Corresponding Secretary Corporate Secretary Treasurer Publisher General Counsel Archive Director Marketing Director Membership Coordinator Public Relations Table of Contents Alan B. Buchan John J. Consoli Ken Kobus Robert D. Brubaker Edward Swain Frederic V. Shaefer James G. Trope Robert L. Johnson Fred Freitas Andy Hart Stan Trzoniec 3 In The Printed Press 4 …at the Interchange by Greg Martin 4 Updates and Errata 8 Modeling the PRR’s Box Car Fleet Part 5 – Class X56 Prototype Overview by Ben Hom 8 Modeling the PRR’s Box Car Fleet Part 5A – Class X56 Modeling by Tom Haag 16 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Modeling the PRR’s Diesel Fleet the Baldwin RS12 – Class BS-12as by Elden Gatwood 25 Term Expires 2008 Charles Blardone, Jr. Ivan E. Frantz, Jr. Term Expires 2009 Alan B. Buchan John J. Consoli Ken Kobus Term Expires 2010 Robert D. Brubaker James B. Winslow THE KEYSTONE MODELER Editorial PRR Open & Covered Hoppers Readers’ Gallery By Ben Hom 32 2 OCTOBER 2007 Editorial some on the STMFC list have said. And, just as if I told you not to vote for a specific political candidate, you can either take my advice or ignore it. I'm sure many people who wanted the model ignored Greg’s comments. Well, the ARM representative thought my reply was “crap.” Then one of his ARM fellows (who BTW is a PRR modeler but not a Society member) thought my reply was “ignorant” and said that he thinks he’ll "vote" not to join the Society, and also will suggest to other model railroaders, they boycott TKM. That of course is his choice, but frankly it pains me to think that an adult would reply in such a childish manner. I don't have to remind you, the reader, that TKM is free and that we take no advertising dollars. Thus, this fellow, acting as if he were an advertiser bullying a publisher about a "bad" review, completely missed the point. We at TKM are free of the fetters of the advertising dollar and we will continue to bring you the most accurate information that we possibly can, regardless of whom the truth offends. We are certainly sorry that some individuals misinterpreted Greg's comments regarding the ARM/RC X29 offering as "bashing" ARM. We have the highest regard for what the ARM has done both with respect to prototype preservation and offering unique models. Our contact at ARM has indicated that ARM was unaware that models previously ordered by and promised to other dealers were used to make up ARM's orders. When the story was printed, Greg, as well as RC dealers were also not aware that RC would be running additional models to sell through their regular dealer network. However, we stand by the fundamental core of Greg's comments. We as modelers can only show our approval or disapproval of business practices that hurt local dealers through our purchasing decisions. It is unfortunate that ARM has found itself in the position of retailer of these cars and may suffer some collateral damage, however that does not change the fundamental issues involved. Perhaps this can serve as a cautionary tale to all of us, including ARM. Now I hope we can move to higher ground. For those of you who were impressed with Andy Rubbo’s PRR catenary article he will be appearing at the Philadelphia Chapter’s October 6th modeler’s meeting, which begins at 11:00 am in the Drexel Hill United Methodist Church, presenting a program titled Cringeless Catenary Construction. Part 2 of Andy’s catenary articles should appear in November’s TKM. Those of you who follow the discussions of the Steam Era Freight Car List (STMFC) are aware that some folks at the Amarillo Railroad Museum (ARM) were upset that Greg Martin, in his August column when referring to the Red Caboose (RC) X29 patch-repaired body with the REA scheme said, “What a bust for the dealers when Red Caboose released the entire run to the Amarillo Railroad Museum for retail sales. I will be one that will be personally holding off on the offering and many of you might consider the same so we can see our PRR products enter the normal channel of distribution. They have effectively just taken your local hobby dealer out of the loop. What a boon for Red Caboose and what a disaster for their dealers and wholesale distributors. It’s easy enough to vote with your dollars here folks.” We resolved the issue in an amicable fashion with Red Caboose through a series of emails and jointly decided to move to higher ground. In his September column Greg stated, “For those interested in the past release of the PRR X29 with ‘patch panels’ and plate ends in the popular Railway Express Agency livery, you will need to contact The Amarillo Railroad Museum direct for current availability as at last inquiry the supply was extremely limited, and their contact information can be found on the Red Caboose website.” I thought we had accomplished the same with ARM, also through a series of emails and Greg’s comments above. However, following release of the September issue, a representative of ARM determined that he was not satisfied and was disappointed that I had not said more about the incident. I replied that I felt that sufficient time had passed and we had already resolved the specific issues with the individuals involved. Thus, I decided it was best to let the matter die and not be dredged up again to become the issue-du-jour. As I went back several times to read Greg’s original August comments I found they were nothing more than a personal recommendation about how to vote on acquiring this model, and in the process, to send a message to the manufacturer (RC). I didn’t find anything negative about ARM or about boycotting ARM, like THE KEYSTONE MODELER (Note: The opinions expressed in this editorial and all other articles of this publication are those of the authors and do not reflect the position of the PRRT&HS.) Al Buchan Editor 3 OCTOBER 2007 In The Printed Press ¾ PRR Modeling • MODEL RAILROADER (MR) October 2007 Not received at press time. • MODEL RAILROAD NEWS (MRN) September 2007 (Now in magazine format) Not received at press time. • RAILMODEL JOURNAL (RMJ) August 2007 Not received at press time. • RAILROAD MODEL CRAFTSMAN (RMC) October 2007 See below. ¾ Other Railroad Modeling Information pertaining to other railroad equipment of interest to the PRR modeler. • WAB, 40’ HO-scale boxcar Speedwitch Media product review, October RMC pp 101-103. ¾ Other Items of Note • • Building a Hulett ore unloader, October RMC pp 78-86. Al Parker’s Sandusky coal dumper, October RMC pp 112-113. …at the Interchange - New Products and Product Review by Greg Martin and Jerry Britton another project. For the Keystone Modelers there is a wealth of good information, especially in the books that the PRRT&HS currently offers. Some answers will be found in non-PRR specific books but I would highly recommend the basic PRR specific books for most answers. If you run into a dead end, there is always the Internet. With a good search engine like Google, you may find the answers there. Then there are a host of PRR specific newsgroup lists and of course the PRRT&HS hosts a Discussion Web on the national website. But let me emphasize that nothing replaces your own private library and your library should include some material other than PRR specific subject matter like the “Bible on PFE Reefers”, PACIFIC FRUIT EXPRESS; Anthony W. Thompson, Robert J. Church and Bruce H. Jones; SIGNATURE PRESS. Our publication, THE KEYSTONE MODELER, is also a good research tool and should be part of your library as it provides information specifically focused on modeling. Another obvious addition to your library should be THE KEYSTONE, which is a generous offering as part of your membership in the PRRT&HS. So without doubt I recommend you join and again add to your library. As I always say, “Feed Your Head”. Well it is officially fall, the time of the year we generally associate with heading inside and starting our serious modeling on these now-longer nights. I believe we all get more work done this time of year. Fall is also the official kick-off of the Prototype Modelers Events, the first being the Western Prototype Modelers meet that occurs on Saturday October 6th. My personal opinion is that switching this event from Sunday last year actually may have increased the attendance. I made it to the event the first time since leaving Southern California, making the journey and meeting up with our old “GANG of FOUR” and a few other friends whom I believe hadn’t made the event in years. I had very little issue with the TSA and traveling with my models: I think the worst of it was simply the handling of them on my own part. Later this month the Sunshine Prototype Modelers Meet will go off as usual in Naperville, IL and this year I am planning on being there as I haven’t made the trip in several years and I do love Chicago and this event just makes it that much better. So, if you haven’t made one of the various Prototype Modelers events across the country, then it is about time you break down and “get’er done”. You’ll actually be glad you did. This is also OUR TIME when we find some time to relax in our favorite chair and do our research, to plan our fall/winter projects. I find that my library is one of, if not my most valuable, tool in my modeling. Not only does it inspire new work, it also answers all those simple questions that one might stumble across before starting THE KEYSTONE MODELER 4 OCTOBER 2007 machined flywheel, well detailed shell with separately applied detail parts including grab irons, handrails, lift lugs, see-through etched metal side carbody grills and fan grills and more. It will also offer; constant intensity directional lighting and lighted number boards, prepainted and installed crewmembers, and knuckle couplers. The units are expected in November and you will need to reserve your units as soon as possible. BRANCHLINE TRAINS http://www.branchline-trains.com/ PRR Class X43 40-foot 7-foot Single Door Boxcar HO Scale Assembled During December of 1950 the PRR began taking delivery of 500 new 40-foot freight cars from Greenville. The cars were in number series 603500-603999 and where delivered with 10-panel riveted sides, a 7-foot single doors, a Stanray diagonal panel roof and 4/3/R dreadnaught ends. The cars are some of the most difficult of which to find in-service photos. They were delivered in the Circle/Ball Keystone paint scheme. Although the class was a rather small run of cars, most of them did last into the PC era. Later this fall, Branchline will offer this class of PRR 40-foot boxcar car as a built-up completely assembled offering. The car will be offered in the as-delivered Circle Keystone scheme with four separate numbers, metal wheel sets and Kadee Metal Couplers. FENCEHOUSES MODEL FOUNDRY KITS Contact: Bob Jones [email protected] PENNSYLVANIA RR Class 110P75 Phase2 Tender HO Scale Brass Etching Body Wrap Leave it to our Keystone Modeler friends across the pond to truly teach us Yanks a thing or two about our modeling and our skills. John just let us know that a good friend of his, Bob Jones, is developing a valuable new brass etched K4 110P75 phase 2 tender etchings. John was good enough to post it on his website for newsgroup members to review and critique and of course our own Bruce Smith shot the first shot across the bow. So even though this drawing of the etching looks good there are some minor changes needed before we will be able to start wrapping our Bachmann tender shells with this beautiful etching. The idea here was to create a brass “wrapper” that would correct the Bachmann K4 tender. With some minor tweaking from FENCEHOUSES these wrappers will much improve my two Bachmann tenders along with the article written some years ago by Kris Kollar in Mainline Modeler it should just about put the Bachmann K4 with some of the more current offerings. Just take a first look… PULLMAN STANDARD Plan 3973/3973A Heavyweight 10-1-1 Sleeper PRR #8651/La Reine HO Scale Kit Pullman Standard built 117 cars to plans 3973 and 3973A to the 10-1-1, or 10 section, 1 drawing room, and 1 compartment configuration. The car names for this plan are likely some of the most colorful, many being great American Indian Chiefs. After the Pullman Standard divestiture the Pennsylvania acquired just one car in this configuration and it was PRR #8651 and named La Reine. Branchline is scheduled to release this car this fall in a variety of railroads including the PRR car. It will be in kit format and will feature, an extremely detailed body shell, full interior, individual grab irons, correct air conditioning systems (where appropriate), complete underbody equipment including brake gear, battery boxes, tool boxes, generator, air reservoirs, steam traps and car end steam/air and signal lines, coupler cut bars, cast coupler yoke, safety chains, working diaphragms, body mounted couplers and accurate six wheel trucks with blackened metal wheels. They will be decorated in the proper post war PRR livery as well. BROADWAY LMITED/PRECISION CRAFT MODELS/BLUELINE http://precisioncraftmodels.com/ PRR Class EF-15 & EF-15a EMD F-3A/B & F-7A/B HO Scale Broadway Limited Industries under their BlueLine division will release the second run of their PRR EMD F-7A/B in PRR livery. The BlueLine is the new division of BLI/PCM that utilizes their proprietary DC sound system and the DCC plug with no DCC decoder. The locomotives will feature; a 5-pole can motor with a THE KEYSTONE MODELER 5 OCTOBER 2007 the lead truck and the fuel tank. I actually believe that this feature was never tooled for the FP-7 and we as modelers will likely have to add the Cal Scale part. Just a reminder that on the eve of the FP-7 production, InterMountain will also be releasing their F7 in PRR livery. Look for them near Thanksgiving. INTERMOUNTAIN RAILWAY CO. http://www.intermountain-railway.com/ Fruit Growers Express/ Western Fruit Express 40foot Refrigerated Boxcar HO Scale As a student of Fruit Growers Express and the consortium of the FGEX/WFEX/BREX companies I am only now studying the works of Bill Welch and a handful of others. I can tell you that in 1921 the consortium designed and began to build cars of a standard “company” design follow recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for maximum utilization of the cars. There were some non-standard issues with these cars as the cars built during this period would have three distinct underframes: those with no visible side sill, those built with a 4-inch side sill and those built with a 6-inch side frame; but the goal of building cars with a riveted straight center sill had been achieved. A particular feature with these cars was their 12’ 1-9/16” height from the rail to the top of the eave. As my teacher Bill Welch will tell you in the future many of these cars will undergo changes in that will most notably include taller doors. The FGEX cars were built in series 32100 to 35999 and the WFEX cars were built in series 65000-66349 and the quantities of the cars were maintained well over 3700 and 1300 respectively until 1948 when many, but not all, of the cars would begin undergoing rebuilding and renumbering. InterMountain has just released their long awaited FGEX/WFEX 12’ 2” prototype reefer to represent cars matching the prototype explained above. They will offer this car in two FGEX and two WFEX paint schemes and six separate numbers for each to cover both an earlier and later era for the modeler. The cars will be preassembled and ready to run. This car fills a major void in the PRR modeler’s car fleet as the cars lasted well into the late 60s, albeit their numbers did wane after the midfifties when the mechanical cars began to render the wood cars obsolete. These cars would be seen in PRR trains with fruit and produce from the south, generally in FGEX cars, as well as fruit and produce from the West Coast in WFEX cars. The car fits behind a PRR M1 as well as an SD-45 as long as the car is in appropriate paint. LIONEL MODEL TRAINS http://www.lionel.com/ PRR Class H43 100-ton 3-bay Hopper O-Gauge During 1964 the Pennsy turned out the first 100-ton 3-bay high capacity hoppers. The H43 was delivered in series 180000 to 181999, an amazing two thousand cars. They were delivered in the all black with plain keystone scheme and yellow ball. This yellow ball (sometimes seen with a black dot in the center) suggests that the car was in unit-train service. They would last well into the CONRAIL era and beyond. I am not sure how we missed this car’s release earlier this year but our reader Mark Massa brought it to our attention and gave us a short review from a modeler’s prospective, “This I a new hopper made this year and is nearly on the money.” He goes on to say “Even the car numbers are correct…” and “The only minor issue is the mounting of the air reservoir (shows two plastic stubs mounting to the bottom beam instead of the bracket) and the lack of a full scale bolster (to accommodate the Lionel die cast sprung trucks with rotating bearing caps and oversized flanges).” The car features operating couplers, spring die cast trucks with rotating bearing caps, opening hopper doors, super detailed scale proportioned body with many separately applied details, hidden uncoupling tabs, and a removable coal load. It was designed from all new tooling and is decorated in an accurate PRR paint scheme. They are available as individual cars or in three-car packs. M.T.H. PREMIER LINE http://www.railking1gauge.com/ PRR Class B28 U.S.R.A. 0-6-0 Shifter O Scale/Gauge M.T.H. is now shipping their latest steam offering of the USRA 0-6-0 PRR B28 shifter in O Scale/Gauge. The locomotive is offered in nine different paint schemes including the PRR. The locomotive will be offered in 2rail or 3-rail Hi-Rail version or scale wheels with your choice of AC or DC operation because of MTH’s patented Proto-Scale 3-2 technology and Proto-Sound 2.0 electronics. The model will have a die cast chassis, truck side frames, boiler and tender body, separately applied details such as piping, handrails and grab irons, bell, air pump and more. They are also offering constant lighting, working back-up tender light, a lighted cab, glowing firebox. The tender and roof hatches will open and the windows will slide. It will also include synchronized smoke/sound, remote controlled coupler Update: PRR Class EF-15a and EFP-15 EMD F-7 and FP-7 HO and N Scale Last month we reported that InterMountain was releasing its second run of FP-7A/B and this time in the Tuscan Red and 5-stripe paint scheme. There were questions regarding the details that are signature to the PRR units and were missed on the first release, such as 36-inch dynamic brake fans, vertical side body louvers, passenger pilot, and the vertical Farr grille work, and the answers to the query were favorable but no mention of the water tank that the PRR units uniquely had between THE KEYSTONE MODELER 6 OCTOBER 2007 pick-up, a five pole skew-wound motor, constant directional lighting, with separate applied road specific details. We should look for delivery during the first quarter of 2008. On a personal note the original Walthers H-10-44 will be tough to top as the smoothness of the ROCO designed drive gave smooth, quiet operation. and crew figures as well as MTH’s Proto-Sound 2.0 with the digital command system. TICHY TRAIN GROUP http://tichytraingroup.com PRR Style Catenary Insulators HO Scale Tichy has just released their new PRR style Catenary insulators and they are available molded in gray styrene on a sprue of 6 pieces and are cored for .025” wire or smaller. They will be packaged as (#8158) with 24 pieces per package or for the serious electrification modeler (#8158B) as a 600-piece package. The insulators can be trimmed for less total insulators. Al Buchan put a message out to Andy Rubbo regarding the new offerings and here are some thoughts from his message, “In my humble opinion, those are the best HO scale insulators available for modeling PRR. Scale size is right on at about 10 scale inches in diameter and the shape and profile is very close if not exact…” Now this is from someone we at TKM regard as the “Catenary Man”… PRR Class X29 40-foot Boxcar HO Scale GOLD LINE 3-pack For as long as most of us can remember there has been an offering of the Walthers (nee TrainMinature) X29 40-foot boxcar. These latest cars, what may very well be the final release of the WKW X29 boxcar will be offered in a three pack including on car painted in PRR REA paint scheme, PRR Shadow Keystone with “calendar” lettering (sk1a), and PRR Shadow paint scheme (sk1b). The cars are ready to run, featuring metal wheelsets and knuckle couplers. Although there are better examples of HO Scale X29 boxcars now on the market, these cars have been the mainstay for folks modeling in a club layout setting and these cars are painted and lettered in genuine PRR liveries. W. K. WALTHERS http://www.walthers.com PRR Class FS-10 Fairbanks Morse H-10-44 Shifter HO Scale Beginning in June 1948 the Pennsy began taking delivery of 23 class FS-10 FM H-10-44 shifters. These locomotives were assigned to suppress the fires on many of the H-10 class 2-8-0 steamers in the western end of the PRR system; the deliveries would continue until November of 1949 and accomplished the task. Most of these locomotives would spend their entire lives holding down switching service on this end of the system. The first batch of locomotives from order number LD-50 was somewhat different than the others to come along later. First they were some of the last units built with the Westinghouse 125-volt electrical control system and were delivered with what is referred to as the phase 2c carbody. A spotting feature for this first batch of H-1044’s was the three handrail stanchions on the end platforms. The later units were all delivered with the AAR’s recommended practice 75-volt electrical control system to allow for MU capability, this was the largest single order of this type that FM would ever sign up. In 1949 the PRR would negotiate two more orders of FS10’s with Fairbanks Morse. Walthers is no stranger to this locomotive and has announced the release of an all newly tooled FM H-1044 with a complete new drive in their Proto 2000 series: were not talking a re-tooled version of the previously offered unit. Their new offering will also be available with sound and DCC, or a straight DC unit without sound. The new unit will have the now Walthers adopted standard of 14:1 gear ratio trucks, helical gears, all wheel THE KEYSTONE MODELER PRR Class ERS-15a EMD SD-7 HO Scale PROTO 2000 In October of 1953 the PRR took delivery of two specially equipped SD-7’s to be used in dedicated service on the 5.89% grade ascending Madison Hill on the Ohio River. These specially ballasted locomotives had a tractive effort of 90,000 lbs. and were restricted to 8 mph. The locomotives were designed with a unique rail washing system that washed debris off the tracks ahead of the lead trucks. Walthers has announced the release of this very unique PRR locomotive this month. The modeler will have the option of Sound and DCC/DC or no Sound and straight DC with a DCC plug installed. The locomotives will feature constant directional lighting, five-pole skewwound motor, machined brass flywheels, and all wheel pick-ups and PRR livery. We are at the close of another month and the beginning of another. There seems to be lots of PRR related products steaming at us. The demands of summer are now gone and we can relax and model and take in one of the Prototype Model Railroad meets that are offered up this time of year. Research seems to be high on some folk’s list and I recommend it. So as we close let me invite you all back to meet with Jerry and I right here …at the Interchange Keep ‘um Polished Jerry Britton and Greg Martin 7 OCTOBER 2007 Updates and Errata Updates • Catenary Construction Article Jesper Reinfeldt, a new member from Denmark, was having difficulties equating Andy Robbo’s use of the Special Shapes Company H5, H3, A1, T2 etc. nomenclature as he said they don’t use these terms on their website catalog. So Andy provided the following conversion information • Columns: H5 = 5/32" (1'-3" HO) H4 = 1/8" (1'-0" HO) H3 = 3/32" (9" HO) T's: T2 = 1/16" (6" HO) T1x = 3/64" (approximately 4" HO) • Angles: A1 = 1/32" (3" HO) These dimensions are from the printed catalog (albeit from some years ago). I'm pretty sure all these are still available. If you need any further information or clarification, don't hesitate to contact me. Modeling the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Box Car Fleet Part 5 – Class X56 Prototype Overview by Tom Haag and Ben Hom PRR 88472, Class X56. Mike Bradley photo. cushioning device required extended draft gears that necessitated end crossover walkways and ladders at all eight positions at each corner of the car. Unless otherwise noted (see sidebar), all cars were equipped with Evans DF Loading Devices (AAR car class XL) and were rated at 140,000 pounds capacity. These cars were normally assigned to haul auto parts, with a significant number of them specially equipped with rack to haul a variety of parts from body panels, axles, wheels, and batteries (AAR car class XP). All cars were delivered in the Plain Keystone paint scheme and included the chrome yellow CUSHION CAR lettering. The PRR’s Samuel Rea Shops built 500 class X56 series boxcars in 1963. These cars were divided into five subclasses that included class X56 (8825188500), X56A (88501-88625), X56B (88626-88725), X56C (88726-88749) and the single car class X56D (88750). These cars were built using the standard PRR 14panel riveted boxcar body and were the last PRR 50 foot cars built with interior side-posts. The X56 series boxcars featured improved Dreadnaught ends, 15 foot wide double door openings, 15 inch deep side sills, an “overhanging” ZU-section eave Stanray roof, and a cushioned underframe. The hydraulic THE KEYSTONE MODELER 8 OCTOBER 2007 Class X56 X56A X56B X56C X56D Table 1: PRR class X56 and subclasses, 1963-1968 Series Jan Apr Jan Jan Jan 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 88251-88500 250 250 249 248 247 88501-88625 95 125 125 125 125 88626-88725 100 100 100 99 99 88726-88749 24 24 24 24 24 88750 1 1 1 1 1 Apr 1968 246 125 99 24 1 PRR 88404, class X56, Ft Wayne, Indiana, September 4, 1980. Alan Gaines photo, Fallen Flags Railroad Photos website. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 9 OCTOBER 2007 The following cars in class X56, X56B, and X56C were rated at 154,000 pounds capacity: • X56: 88228, 88352, 88363, 88369, 88378, 88417, 88432 • X56B: 88678, 88681, 88705 • X56C: 88740 PRR 882xx, class X56, Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, July 17, 1992. Mike Wingard photo, courtesy of Rob Schoenberg. 88502-88565 (non-consecutive)]. Some of these received a full LV paint scheme, while others only received LV initials with the PRR and keystone painted out. The LV used these cars in paper and processed food service. The Pennsylvania Railroad controlled the Lehigh Valley during the 1960s, and transferred equipment between the two railroads on several occasions. Twenty six class X56A cars were transferred to the Lehigh Valley, retaining their PRR numbers [LV LV 88501, ex-PRR 88501, class X56A, Newark, New Jersey, August 28, 1983. Karl Geffchen photo, Fallen Flags Railroad Website. These cars saw service beyond the Penn Central merger, serving their new owners in PC green and Conrail red; several cars survived into the 1980s in full Pennsy paint as seen in the photos in this article. THE KEYSTONE MODELER At least one Class X56A boxcar survived in revenue service as recently as 2005 fitted with Hennessy Slidewell power assists on its doors. 10 OCTOBER 2007 CR 213768, class X56A, Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, June 18, 2005. Mark MacDougall photo, from the Conrail Cyclopedia website, courtesy Bob Waller. The large wheels on the side of the car are Hennessy Slidewell power assists, intended to help workers open difficult doors instead of damaging them by using forklifts. Additional photos of these cars can be found in the Morning Sun PRR, Penn Central, CNJ/Lehigh Valley, and Conrail Color Guides. Table 2: Published Photos in Morning Sun Color Guides - class X56 and subclasses Car Class Date Reference Page Number PRR 88259 X56 c. 1/1963 PRR Color Guide Vol 3 65 PRR 88281 X56 c. 4/1963 PRR Color Guide Vol 2 52 PRR 88563 X56A c. 3/1963 PRR Color Guide Vol 2 53 PRR 88580 X56A 9/1/1981 PRR Color Guide Vol 2 53 LV 88504 X56A 10/5/1985 CNJ/LV Color Guide 97 LV 88510 X56A 3/24/1973 CNJ/LV Color Guide 97 LV 88530 X56A CNJ/LV Color Guide 97 PC 271837 X56 c. 8/1968 PC Color Guide 51 CR 271229 X56 5/9/1987 67 CR Color Guide THE KEYSTONE MODELER 11 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 88387, Class X56 (Mike Bradley photo). PRR 88387, class X56, Fairborn, Ohio, May 1986 Gary Stuebben photo, Fallen Flags Railroad Photos website. Acknowledgments Mike Bradley, George Elwood, Nick Fry (B&O Railroad Historical Society), Alan Gaines, Karl Geffchen, Mark MacDougall, Rob Schoenberg, Gary Stuebben, Al Westerfield, Mike Winegard • References • Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Freight Cars of the 1960s, Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, reprinted by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Historical Society. • CNJ/LV Color Guide to Freight and Passenger Equipment, Craig T. Bossler, Morning Sun Books, 1994. • Conrail Color Guide to Freight Equipment 19761987 Volume 1, Larry DeYoung, Morning Sun Books, 2000. • THE KEYSTONE MODELER • • • • 12 Penn Central Color Guide to Freight and Passenger Equipment, James Kinkaid, Morning Sun Books, 1998. PRR Color Guide to Freight and Passenger Equipment Volume 2, Ian S. Fischer, Morning Sun Books, 1996. PRR Color Guide to Freight and Passenger Equipment Volume 3, Ian S. Fischer, Morning Sun Books, 2002. Conrail Cyclopedia website, http://crcyc.railfan.net/ Fallen Flags Railroad Photos website, http://rrfallenflags.org Rob Schoenberg’s Pennsylvania Railroad homepage, http://prr.railfan.net OCTOBER 2007 DF/DF-Type Boxcars Confronted with growing competition from trucks during the 1960s, the railroad industry began shifting its focus away from general service boxcars (“we’ll haul any load if you can find a way fit it into our boxcars”) to specially equipped boxcars that attempted to cater to a customer’s specific needs. These included cars equipped with Evans DF or similar loading devices from Transco or Spartan designed to reduce damage to loads. Unlike traditional dunnage and bracing which had to be customized for each load, the DF equipment was an integral part of the car and could be quickly rearranged to accommodate different loads. This illustration from a 1967 B&O Sales Manual information sheet illustrates the basic components of a DF-type loading system: Cutaway diagram of a car equipped with Evans DF loading equipment. (B&O Railroad Historical Society collection) Basic features of DF-type equipment: (1) Belt rails run lengthwise along the inside car wall. These are perforated to receive crossbars. Normally, DF cars contain anywhere from 8 to 19 belts. (The Class X56 and subclass cars had 3 belts.) (2) Crossbars extend crosswise in the car and lock in the belt perforations to brace and secure the load. They may also form the foundation for a second or third deck. Depending on shipper specifications and the number of belts, DF cars will carry between 25 and 80 crossbars. (3) Doorway bars are simply extensions of the belt rails and are installed lengthwise across door openings to allow loading in this area. (4) Deckboards (or gates) are wooden platforms, used as bulkheads, or as flooring on extra decks. ORERcheology: Deciphering the Notes Section of the Official Railway Equipment Register In many instances throughout the North American railroad car fleet, not all railroad cars in a given series are the same. This was due to any number of reasons: rebuilt cars within a series of older cars or THE KEYSTONE MODELER dissimilar replacements for wrecked cars were given the same numbers; cars may have received new trucks, increasing their capacity, or most commonly, specific cars or groups of cars had special equipment. There simply wasn’t room in the car table to detail these differences, so the ORER listings directed users 13 OCTOBER 2007 groups: 241 XML, and two groups 5 and 4 XAP. We know that XML are cars equipped with loading devices, and that XAP are cars equipped for auto parts loading. The problem is there are several different loading devices in service on the railroad, and auto parts loading encompasses a pretty wide spectrum. to an appendix containing this information. This can be somewhat confusing for the first time researcher. We’ll go through the Class X56 listing in the April 1964 to illustrate how to decipher the ORER notes section. Here’s the listing for PRR 88251-88500, Class X56. We see that this series is broken into three To find out more details on these cars, we’ll need to check notes 158, 37, and 29 in the notes section, which is listed after the last page of the car tables. (Notes are indicated by letters for ORER editions through 1958.) Notes 37 and 29 pertain to more than one series of cars; the circled numbers direct the user to the section of those notes pertaining specifically to this series of cars. We look up Note 158, which tells us all the Class X56 cars in PRR 88251-88500 are equipped with Evans DF loading devices with three rows of perforated wall angles. It notes an exception for the cars listed in Notes 29 and 37. Let’s look up those notes. Note 37 tells us that car numbers 88451, 88455, 88461, 88464, and 88471 are equipped with racks for hauling automobile axles. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 14 OCTOBER 2007 Conversely, Note 29 tells us that cars 88276, 88441, 88443, and 88496 are equipped with automobile engine racks. Cars specially equipped with auto parts racks were typically in captive service for a single customer, and could not handle anything other type of cargo. Special Equipment, Class X56 and subclasses April 1968 Official Railway Equipment Register • • • • Class X56 Bulk Bins (XL): 88420 Automobile Axle Racks (XP): 88388, 88451, 88455, 88461, 88464, 88471 Automobile Engine Racks (XP): 88276, 88381, 88441, 88443, 88496 Automobile Wheel Racks (XP): 88270, 88458 Class X56A Automobile Transmission Racks (XP): 88501-88520, 88522-88550, 88555-88559, 88562-88565 Automobile Wheel Racks (XP): 88596-88600 Automobile Door & Parts Loading (metal rub rails and DF door members, XP): 88566, 88568-88572, 88574-88581, 88583, 88585-88592 Automobile Batteries (bulkheads, rub rails, door bar, XP): 88593, 88594, 88595 Automobile Axle Racks (XP): 88521, 88551, 88552, 88553, 88554, 88560, 88561 Automobile Wheels (floor spacers): 88567, 88573, 88582, 88584 Class X56B Bulk Bins: 88627, 88632, 88663, 88707 Automobile Engine Racks (XP): 88679 TOTE BINS (28 containers/car, XL): 88641, 88642, 88648, 88649, 88652 Bulk Bins : 88684 Class X56C Automobile Engine Racks (XP): 88749 THE KEYSTONE MODELER 15 OCTOBER 2007 Modeling the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Box Car Fleet Part 5A – Modeling an HO scale PRR Class X56 Boxcar by Tom Haag Prototype photos by Mike Bradley, Model photos by the author. PRR 88696, class X56B boxcar. Modified Branchline HO scale boxcar lettered with TH Decals custom printed by DM Custom Decals. lengths of 0.030” x 0.030” styrene into the grooves on the inside of the floor. These grooves were molded in the floor to allow the doors to slide but if left unfilled will result in weak points when the side sill is removed around the wide door openings. Next, remove the original side sills which is perhaps the hardest part of the all the required modifications. Be very careful while doing this so that you do not remove any of the upper boxcar side as this will later show up as gaps when the new side sill is installed. I removed the original side sills by first shaving off the lower door tracks (they will later be replaced), and then scoring a line just below where the side sill meets the body. I snapped off the original side sill at the scored line then slowly and carefully removed the remaining portions using a razor blade and sanding sticks. Again, take your time here, as a neat job here is the key to a good-looking finished car. The end tabs that hold the stirrups should also be removed. The late-era 50 ft boxcars of the Pennsylvania Railroad are a challenge for the Keystone Modeler. Few models are correct out of the box, and in this case, no models of class X56 are available in HO scale; however, a reasonable match can be made with some work from the Branchline Hobbies 50 ft AAR postwar riveted sides double door boxcar kit. Converting this model to a class X56 boxcar is a somewhat lengthy process but does result in a unique PRR car. The rivet patterns will not match the PRR car but since there are no other options short of scratchbuilding that is a small discrepancy that I can certainly live with. Construction Refer to the Bill of Materials at the end of this article and note that construction requires parts from no less than nine different manufacturers! The most obvious modification to the car is replacing the Branchline side sill with the deeper PRR version. Before doing any cutting, first glue THE KEYSTONE MODELER 16 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 88696, class X56B in the Conrail era. This is the prototype upon which I based my model. Next comes the addition of the new side sills. For these I used 0.020” styrene; to ensure that the top portion is square, I used new sheets of styrene with the factory cut side of the sheet being the side that gets attached to the carbody. Scale templates of these side sills are available from me. Just send me a selfaddressed stamped envelope to the address provided at the end of this article. After the side sill was removed, I then added the improved Dreadnaught ends to the carbody. For a good fit I enlarged the alignment holes on the ends of the carbody to 3/16”, removed the raised numbers present on the inside of the dreadnaught ends, and finally sanded off any imperfections on the carbody edges. Attach the ends making sure that they are on evenly, square, and that there are no gaps near the top. Under construction shot showing new side sill and Moloco roof. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 17 OCTOBER 2007 The new lower door track is now installed and this is made from a scale 32-foot length of 0.020” x 0.030” styrene. The 0.020” side of this material is glued to the top edge of the new sidesill. The door reinforcement gussets located below the door tracks are added using 0.005” styrene sheet. These gussets are 10” high and 30” long. On the ends of the car, a 10” long section of scale 1” x 4” is attached to the right side sill and a 12” long section of scale 1” x 10” is added to left one. A vertical section of scale 2” x 10” is added on the left side for later mounting of the coupler lift bar. Carefully lay out the dimensions from the template onto the styrene and then cut out the new side sills. Once they are successfully formed, glue the side sills to the carbody ensuring that they are centered and are just slightly inset from the carbody side. I used 0.040” x 0.040” styrene backing between the side sill and the floor to add strength and to ensure that the new sidesill remains straight and square in relation to the carbody. Again take your time here and check and double check your work as you glue the side sill to the carbody. PRR 88330, class X56 in the Conrail era showing the end details and deep side sill box and car floor for securing the coupler boxes with a second screw. The Branchline underframe is added next but some trimming of the ends of the center sill (because of the new coupler boxes) and trimming of the stringers (because of the new sidesill supports) are first required. Because the new side sills hide most of the underbody detail the only upgrades to the underbody was changing the direction and location of the brake reservoir. I reused the Branchline reservoir by cutting off the modeled on piping, drilling #78 holes for later installation of piping, and trimmed flush the two small mounting nibs. To support the reservoir, I added a short section of 2” x 10” flat to the center sill and two small sections of 2” x 10” added flush to the inside of the side sill and sitting on the 0.040” x 0.040” backing. The reservoir is then installed on these supports. If you are happy with the fit and finish of the side sills, then it is time to add the extended draft gear to the car. I like the new near scale extended draft gear now available from Details West. Assemble them according to the instructions. However to allow smooth movement of the Kadee #158 couplers I have found that it is necessary to file down the pad on the top of the draft gear lid to allow adequate, free movement. Just file a little bit at a time and test with a Kadee coupler in place. File the pad until satisfied with the coupler movement. These coupler boxes are attached to the car by 080 screws and Branchline already provides convenient, tempting mounting holes. Unfortunately, they are located a little too far out from center, so I first plugged these holes with some stretched sprue and once dry I drilled a hole just inside of the plugged hole. One screw does not seem to hold these on very well so once the coupler box is secured and centered so I drilled another hole through the coupler THE KEYSTONE MODELER 18 OCTOBER 2007 Underbody shot of car showing the relocated brake cylinder and sidesill supports. eight positions at the four corners of the car and the kit only has ladders for two of the corners. Because of these problems, I used Detail Associates 8-rung ladder that are also better detailed than the stock Branchline ladders. One pack has enough material for one class X56 boxcar. However, the mounting pegs do not line up with the Branchline ladder holes so an alternative means of attachment must be made. I filled all of the ladder and grab iron holes on the sides and ends of the car with stretched sprue and then cut and smoothed the filled holes. Next, I glued 6-inch long sections of 0.020” x 0.020” styrene strips to the back of the ladders to act as mounting pads. The ladders that are attached to the ends of the car only require these strips be applied to the outer sides but they do need to be positioned so that they will line up with the end corrugations. Attach the ladders to the car, making sure to use the wider ones on the car sides and narrow ones on the ends. The next step is optional but I replaced the Branchline overhanging roof with a similar one available from Moloco. While I feel that the Moloco roof is better detailed than the Branchline roof the main reason that I used it is that it results in a betterdefined roof overhang. To allow the triple valve to sit a little lower (due to the lower sidesill) the Branchline mounting pad was first covered with two layers of 2” x 10”. Once dry this pad was drilled through and then the predrilled (#78) Branchline retaining valve was installed. Detail Associates 0.015” wire was then installed between the reservoir, cylinder, and triple valve. This piping is barely noticeable and I am not sure if it plumbed correctly but it looks OK to me. Because of the extended draft gear the X56’s had crossover platforms on both ends of the car. For this detail I added Plano parts. I found out the hard way that temporarily removing the draft gear makes this job a lot easier! The Plano part includes a drilling template that makes adding these parts relatively easy to do. Adding the ladders took a little more work than originally planned. The class X56 cars, like most late era PRR boxcars, had 8-rung ladders. Branchline sometimes includes this style of ladder in their boxcar kits but they are not as well done as the 7rung ladders that are always included. The Branchline 8-rung ladders also seem to have excess flash and often the mounting pegs are broken off. Another problem is that these cars had ladders at all THE KEYSTONE MODELER 19 OCTOBER 2007 Overhead view of PRR X56B showing the Moloco roof and Plano running board. template). Next position the template so that the bolt holes are centered on the rivets that are centered above the bolsters. Use a pin to mark the bolt hole locations on the styrene underneath and then drill the corresponding #77 holes for the bolts. Add and secure the Tichy rivets. When drilling the holes for both the stirrups and bolts take care that they are lined up parallel with the side sill. Looking at my model I think I used rivets that are a little too big. I would use the 0.025” size on my next model and that is the size I have listed in the bill of materials. I used Kato ASF trucks with Kadee gray 0.010” washers under my X56B. PRR drawings of these cars indicate that they were equipped with 36” wheels but from photos I could not tell conclusively if they all had 33” or 36” wheels. However as far as I know there are no correct HO scale friction bearing 100-ton trucks out there so the Kadee truck is an acceptable compromise. Add the remaining parts such as the brakewheel housing (drilled to accept a Kadee brakewheel), routing boards, end grabs (0.012” wire sitting on short lengths of 1” x 2”), a defect car holder (0.20” styrene rod) located on one side of the car, a Plano brake wheel platform, and finally the nicely detailed Kadee brake wheel. Note that the Branchline angled retainer pipe line needs to be straightened to clear the crossover platform. I installed the top portion of the plastic retainer line and then added a length of 0.015” wire to complete the line. If you go with the Moloco roof option, there are two things that need to be done to the carbody to allow proper installation and fit of the roof. First, I added lengths of 2” x 6” styrene along the inside and flush with the top of the carbody. This will ensure that when the roof is installed it comes out centered and the car sides remain square. Next, to properly raise the roof off of the carbody, I glued 2” x 2” styrene on the top inside surface of the top eave. These should be cut a little long so that some overhang remains on each end of the car so it can be trimmed to size later. Now on the top of the ends add short lengths of 2” x 6” styrene between the added 2” x 2”s. I scribed a line in the middle of the 2” x 6” and then bent it slightly to match the roof angle. The 2” x 6” should fit snug between the added 2” x 2” strips. Once dry, trim the 2” x 2”s and then sand the joint smooth between the 2” x 6”s and the top of the ends. The roof is then secured in place but make sure that you add the weights first! I used Walthers Goo to secure the Branchline weights (steel nuts) in place. Now it is time to add some more of the details. I added Tichy stirrups to the bottom of the ends of the side sill. They are not quite correct but they are the closest that I could find. The X56s also had six prominent bolts that attached the side sills to the bolster. These can be added to the model by using the X56 side sill template that has the bolt hole locations marked. First cut the template out of the sheet (I found it easier to position the template onto the model if I only used a small section of the THE KEYSTONE MODELER 20 OCTOBER 2007 A-end of class X56B model. B-end of class X56B model. platforms before installing them on the roof. I used short sections of 2” x 4” and 0.020” x 0.030” styrene to support the end platforms off of the roof surface. Finally the last detail to add are the Plano coupler cut levers. These are the same style of levers and brackets that are included in the Rail Yard Models X58 and look really good with the extended draft gear. To install, follow the Plano instructions and use ACC to attach the bracket to the previously installed bracket support. Next drill a hole with a #78 bit centered on the lower front of the draft gear lid. Then carefully thread the cut lever bar through the bracket and the other end to the hole in the lower draft gear lid. If you used a Moloco roof then add the Plano roofwalk brackets. Follow the Plano instructions for adding these but just make sure that all of your required holes are drilled as close to the centerline of the roof as possible. Brackets are also required to be added to the ends of the roof but make sure that the holes are drilled at least 1/8” from the ends. I also used the Branchline end roofwalk supports. Once the brackets are installed, I used 30-minute epoxy to secure the main Plano roofwalk to the brackets and supports. To ensure proper alignment, I used masking tape and a pile of pennies to hold the roofwalk in place until the epoxy cured. I used 0.012” wire for the corner grabirons which, by the way, are much easier to add, glue, and trim to the end THE KEYSTONE MODELER 21 OCTOBER 2007 End view showing the Plano Cut Levers and Bracket painted with a black asphalt sealer but for the era that I am modeling (1976) a well-weathered roof showing most of the bare galvanized roof is more appropriate. To represent this I used a 50/50 mix of Polly Scale Stainless Steel and Reefer Gray. For years, accurate PRR plain keystone decals for lettering PRR boxcars were simply not available, which was a huge hole for PRR modelers of this era. While I model the 1976 Conrail era, PRR boxcars were still seen in large numbers and the lack of PRR boxcars in my trains just did not look right. Tired of this lack of PRR decals, I finally designed artwork and had DM Custom Decals print a set of PRR PK OK, that was a lot of construction work but now it is time to just sit back and enjoy your new X56 for a little while before heading to the paint shop! Painting, Decaling and Weathering The first step in the painting process is to give the car a coat of primer so that the entire car has the same neutral color. I used Polly Scale Light Undercoat Gray. Next paint it in your favorite version of PRR Freight Car Color. I used my standard 1960s PRR Freight Car Color of Polly Scale Italian Camouflage Brown mixed with some Zinc Chromate Primer. These cars appeared to have the roof originally THE KEYSTONE MODELER 22 OCTOBER 2007 I followed PRR lettering diagrams and photos to letter my car. While lining up the decals just keep in mind that the rivet patterns on the model do not match the prototype X56 so do not use these as guides. Also, please note that I somehow missed adding the “NEW” lettering to the capacity data to my decal artwork; I did find the appropriate lettering in a Microscale Trailer Train decal set. Since I model the early Conrail era I also added ACI plates (Microscale) and consolidated stencils (available from the PCRRHS). boxcar decals that I also made available for purchase. After the second run of this decal set was sold out, I decided to add some extra data to the set and this time I added the yellow CUSHIONED CAR lettering which would allow the lettering of the X56 class (and others classes equipped with cushioned underframes) to be modeled. I was very pleased with the way the completed decals turned out and these revised decals are also available from me. (See the Bill of Materials at the end of this article for ordering information.) PRR 88444, class X56. Note the weathering patterns along the rivet lines. Weathering of the car consisted of highlighting the rivets and weld lines using Sanford watercolor pencils (Dark Umber, Dark Brown, Sienna Brown, and Terra Cotta). These pencils were also used to add door scratch marks, rust spots, and general weathering. A final coat of airbrush weathering completed the car. After decaling was completed, I applied a clear flat finish to my car. I used Polly Scale Flat but be cautious here as it appears that Polly Scale Flat is now being made to a new and not improved formula that can cause some serious white cloudiness to the finish. In the future I will probably use Testors Dullcote for the final clear coat. Side view of my class X56B model showing the weathering patterns. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 23 OCTOBER 2007 This PRR class X56B boxcar is now ready to haul auto parts! The car will look great running behind brand new PRR GP35s and U25Bs, behind run-down PC units, or even fresh and shiny blue Conrail units! One last thing…. a number of PRR boxcars used the same side sill as the X56. The non-cushioned class X55 double door boxcar was very similar to the X56. Hmmm…all I would need to do is create another decal set for the Shadow Keystone scheme and I am on my way! Bill of Materials Branchline Trains http://www.branchline-trains.com • 1100 Undecorated Double Door Boxcar Detail Associates • 6241 8-rung Ladders Details West http://www.detailswest.com/ • 1025 Scale Cushion Draft Gear Evergreen Scale Models http://www.evergeenscalemodels.com • Styrene Sheet o 0.005” thick styrene • Styrene Strip o 0.020” x 0.020” o 0.020” x 0.030” o 0.020” x 0.030” o 0.030” x 0.030” o 0.040” x 0.040” o 1” x 4” scale o 2” x 2” scale o 2” x 6” scale o 2” x 10” scale • Styrene Rod o 0.020” styrene rod Kadee http://www.kadee.com • 158 Scale Whisker Coupler • 2035 Modern Brakewheel • 209 Gray Insulating Fiber Washers - .010” Kato http://www.katousa.com • 31601 ASF A-3 Ride Control Trucks HO scale PRR Plain Keystone Decals, (enough to letter two 40’ and/or 50” boxcars) and the yellow CUSHION CAR lettering is also available (enough for one car). If you want the PRR X56 sidesill template, let me know and I will include it with the decals. If you just want the template, just send me a THE KEYSTONE MODELER Miscellaneous • 0-80 screws • 0.012” wire • 0.015” wire Moloco • 801 50’ Stanray Overhanging Diagonal Panel Roof PCRRHS http://www.pcrrhs.org/store.html • PCH-6 Supplemental Data Stencil Decals) (Consolidated Plano Model Products http://www.planomodelproducts.com/ • 194 50’ Apex Etched Metal Walkway • 200 Boxcar Roofwalk Brackets • 367 Crossover Platforms • 12002, 12003 or 12004 Coupler Cut Lever Bars with Hangers Testors/Floquil http://www.testors.com • F505286 Italian Camouflage Brown • F414293 Zinc Chromate Primer • F414134 Undercoat Light Gray • F414296 Stainless Steel • F414116 Reefer Gray Tichy http://www.tichytraingroup.com • 8018 Scale Rivet Heads (0.025”) • 2007 Stirrup Steps – Short Straight Side Mount self-addressed envelope. Above available from Tom Haag, 351 Whitney Chase Drive, N. Huntingdon PA 15642-1962, [email protected] Acknowledgements Mike Bradley, Don Manlick 24 OCTOBER 2007 Modeling the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Diesel Fleet The Pennsy’s Baldwin RS-12 class BS-12as by Elden Gatwood All photos by the author. a converted P70 coach. 8975 was an interesting animal, featuring a steam generator, no m.u. capability, and light road capability. While not that numerous on any railroad, the RS-12 would make an ideal light passenger switching or road service engine, or even, sans steam, a light road switcher for small local freights. This article on modeling engine 8975 was also meant to give you ideas on options for engines that feature both the key elements of the prototype, sufficient to make it a convincing model, but also feature “survivable” details, to absorb the ravages of challenged operations in a layout environment. Introduction This month, I figured would be a good time to talk about another theme and subject. This one will focus on the Pennsy’s Baldwin RS-12, or in their parlance, a BS-12as (Baldwin, Shifter, 1200 h.p., with the “a” referring to a second and slightly different model from the plain BS-12 (S-12) shifter, and the “s” referring to its steam capability). I would also like to talk about the compromises you have to make on a “working” versus a much more fragile fully-detailed model (like my AS-616); this being the former. This model was created to survive the rigors of real operation, in this case that of my young son, and features a number of “correctible” compromises that can be re-done at a later date, when rough treatment becomes less of an issue. Some of you might also be in this same boat using your equipment on club layouts, where it does not necessarily get the same kind treatment you might give it yourself. The Baldwin RS-12 was a real oddball on any railroad. It was virtually a cross between a switcher and a road switcher, having elements of each. The RS-12 featured a fairly standard Baldwin switcher long hood, grafted onto a longer light road switcher frame, with AAR Type B road trucks, and a short hood that could accommodate a steam generator, if so desired. The RS-12 was the direct descendant of the DRS 4-4-1000, which was designed with exactly those objectives in mind. With a steam generator, this model served as a passenger yard switcher, most of the Pennsy’s being assigned to the large Chicago yards of the PRR. Engine number 8975 was, however, most famous for its assignment to the “Pemberton Local”, a New Jersey branch operation that ran well into the 1960’s in push-pull service with THE KEYSTONE MODELER The Prototype The class BS-12as engine on the Pennsy was the successor to the BS-10as, which was intended for the same general service, as a steam-equipped passenger yard switcher and/or light passenger local engine. It featured Baldwin’s newer 606A diesel powerplant, in virtually the same body as its earlier manifestation. The long hood was almost identical to Baldwin’s standard switcher hood, but a short hood was added behind the cab (the long hood end being designated as the front of the unit). The short hood on this prototype featured a steam generator, with a short stack, and louvered side doors. The water fill was mounted in a door on the rear. The frame was constructed long enough to accommodate both hoods, and the unit mounted road-capable AAR Type “B” trucks, capable of sustained high speed operation on the road. The fuel tank was slung in the traditional location between the trucks, with a fill on either side of the unit. Handrails ran down either side of the long hood, with frame-mounted handrails running 25 OCTOBER 2007 these can be added later, when desired, I felt, without the danger of mis-matched paint or other problems. I began by getting together the necessary parts. None of the parts mentioned were difficult to obtain. The shell was detached from the frame for detailing, but also so that the window glazing could be removed. This was set aside. The pilot stripes were cut out on their backing sheet, and placed on the front of the pilot, to match the photos of the unit in its later days. I used a metal straight edge to get the two pieces to be virtually mirror images of one another, and jockeyed them around numerous times, before being satisfied that they were ready to be set in place. A few judicious cuts were made on the clear portion of the decals, to ensure they would form around existing details, particularly the poling pockets. The decals were placed on a sheet of wet paper towel, before being floated in place on the model. The end result is shown below. from cab to end on the short hood, and abbreviated frame-mounted handrails with a single stanchion at the end of the long hood. Triangular end rail stanchion arrangements typical of non-m.u.-equipped Baldwins were featured at either end. Unit 8975 also featured a small radio box in front of the cab on top of the long hood, and the Pennsy’s signature Trainphone antennae, as befitting a unit assigned to road service. It was the only PRR RS-12 so equipped. 8975 also featured pilot safety stripes, another unique feature of this engine. Later PRR RS-12’s did not feature steam generators, and were purchased for light road freight service, but were also bought after Baldwin’s changeover from Westinghouse to GE traction motors, a move that necessitated a slightly longer frame. Later RS-12’s also featured a higher short hood and larger side numberboards, features that make them immediately identifiable as different from the earlier group of RS-12’s that included 8975. Modeling the Pennsy’s BS-12as 8975 Modeling the 8975 in HO was a fairly easy task, given the existence of a pre-numbered Stewart model with beautiful dimensions, appearance, and a fine Kato chassis. The model continues to be available through various outlets, but with a different drive. I purchased mine some time ago, not knowing what I would do with it, but eventually could not resist the lure of numerous fine photos of this unit in the Pennsy Diesel Years series. Since I had no use for this unit in my western Pennsylvania operation, I chose to create a model as close as I could to the prototype, for my son to perform local switching and light road service with, but with several features designed to survive operation by my son and others, on my layout. Details I chose not to add now, but are capable of being added later, included highly-damageable fine dimension handrail sections, sunshades, fragile tank and underframe details, and wind deflectors. Each of THE KEYSTONE MODELER I also added “FUEL”, “WATER” and “FIRE EXTINGUISHER” decals, as indicated in the photos. The “WATER” lettering goes on either side of the water fill in the end of the short hood. 26 OCTOBER 2007 filled. When all stanchions were in place, each was pressed home, and the pipe jockeyed into final position. The stanchions were pushed into a vertical position, then each locked in place with CA applied from the inside of the shell. Each stanchion was then checked again for verticality, then cement was wicked into the pipe/stanchion junction, with a small pin tip drop of thin CA . A long hood top equipment box was created from a block of styrene, and filed until it closely resembled the visual dimensions of its counterpart on the prototype. I mounted it with a small drop of rubber cement, so I could remove it and alter it if I found plans for it at a later date. A steam generator top access door was fashioned from .040” sheet, using the general dimensions of the existing model hatch as a guide, and enlarging it to suit. I rounded the top edge, to match the appearance of the prototype. Then a PSC steam stack was mounted in hole drilled in the general location of where it appeared in photos. Again, since I had no plans or close-up photos, I created this whole assembly using judgment, and again, mounted it with a small drop of rubber cement, so I could remove it and alter it if I found plans for it at a later date. The use of the rubber cement also allows for some “give” should it be knocked about in operation or re-railing. Once the decals appeared to be as close to perfect as I could place them, I set them in place using Microscale’s “Micro Sol”. These were allowed to dry for several days before beginning work on the rest of the details. The frame was detailed with a fuel fill on either side of the tank. I used the Details Associates EMD filler, but rounded the square filler base by mashing it in a set of small pliers. These were mounted by drilling suitable holes through a thin styrene sheet, for durability, before mounting the sheet on the frame. Next, the shell was drilled for all handrail holes, with a number 78 bit. Drop grabs were mounted as indicated in the photos, but those on the pilot were not mounted at this time. Cut lever holes were also added. These specific finer details are not at risk, and would also be more problematic to blend in at a later date, so I did plan for them now. Trainphone mounting holes were drilled, according to the Cal-Scale directions. Stanchions were pre-drilled, then set aside. The .019” “pipe” was pre-bent; one for the short hood and one for the long hood. The appropriate number of stanchions were then slid onto each wire, and the inner stanchion pressed into its hole. Each successive hole was then THE KEYSTONE MODELER 27 OCTOBER 2007 The Trainphone receiver was obtained from a CalScale PRR plastic cabin antenna set. Both holes were drilled, then it was installed ahead of the equipment box. A Details West metal bell was added to the underframe just behind the front step on the left side. The pin was cut off and the base flattened. The underframe was notched so it would fit where it shows in photos. You can also see this in the photo of the left side of the unit. Note: In taking the photos, I almost dropped the unit and grabbed it at the last second. I inadvertently bent the handrail behind the cab, which you can see the results of. I did not notice it until after I had taken the photographs. My apologies! The horn was created from a Utah Pacific fivechime, with the two rear-facing trumpets cut off. This closely resembles the Pennsy’s use of the three front-facing trumpets with the longest one in center, so obvious in photos of road units, and this specific option is more durable than the more fragile Details Associates or other individually-mounted trumpets. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 28 OCTOBER 2007 was added last with a bit of wire to hold it to the brake lever. It can be removed by pulling of the end of the wire, so chassis maintenance can be performed. A brake chain take-up pulley sheave and chain were added to the right side under the cab. I made the pulley and sheave from scraps of styrene and a bit of wire. The chain is from Builders-In-Scale, and THE KEYSTONE MODELER 29 OCTOBER 2007 Finally, #78 holes were drilled for a set of the short A-Line windshield wipers, but they were not installed until later. Painting, Lettering, and Final Assembly Given the quality of the furnished paint job, I chose not to repaint the engine, but only to touch up details using a bottle of Floquil Brunswick Green and a fine (000) brush. This included the Trainphone equipment, equipment box, fuel fills, and other small details. The steam generator hatch was removed for air-brushing, to ensure a smooth coat. Pilot details were added, including the cut levers and grabs. The corners of the handrails were painted Chrome Yellow, with a mixture of bright yellow and a couple drops of Orange. The entire shell was then oversprayed with a protective coat of DullCote, in preparation for weathering. The photos above and to the right can be used as a guide to what is painted, and where. The window frames were painted Floquil Steel, with this same small brush. Couplers were painted with a light wash of Burnt Umber, to avoid gunking them up. The coupler trip pin was also painted Grimy Black, to make it appear somewhat less evident. If I eventually get to the point of not needing the uncoupling feature of the trip pin, I will just cut them off. Brake pistons were highlighted by a bit of Steel on the piston rod that goes in and out of the cylinder. Weathering Wheels were masked using masking tape. The steam stack was initially painted a dark shade of rust, and its center with Engine Black. The body was masked to create the look of the prototype unit in its later years. Baldwin hood units featured highly-rusty long hood end, I would hazard, due to the high temperatures around the radiator, and the high ranges of temperature extreme this end of the engine endured, with its subsequent effect on the paint. The long hood top radiator grille was masked entirely. The end result is neat; see below. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 30 OCTOBER 2007 drybrushed. The front grille was also lightly drybrushed after the masks were removed. The fuel fill cap was painted Signal Red. MV lenses were added, with the centers drilled out for later lighting. The wipers were added last to ensure they didn’t get pulled off by the masking process. A wash of rust was applied with a fine application, between hood doors and other features. The engine was then oversprayed with Floquil Grime and Earth, over the entire body, with more Earth on the trucks, tank and lower frame, and more Grime on upper surfaces. The steam hatch was highlighted with Grime to give the appearance of mineral build-up from steam condensation on the hatch top and sides. A heavier application of Rust was made at the long hood end and hood top, to match the photos of 8975. Engine Black was sprayed directly down (actually, the engine was laid on its side, and the paint sprayed horizontally) onto the engine stack and surrounding panels. Masks were removed, and the unit left to dry, then oversprayed with Dullcote to finish. This was followed by some select highlighting. Water mineral stains were brushed under the water fill in the end of the short hood. The hinges and latches were lightly THE KEYSTONE MODELER Addenda This model was an extremely fun project. No part of it was that difficult, and it resulted in a highly durable model that can be upgraded later with finer (more fragile) details, if desired. The running characteristics are superb, and I like its weathered and blended appearance within the larger layout scenery. I hope you give these fine Stewart (now Stewart-Bowser) engines a try! References • Pennsy Diesel Years; Volumes 1 through 6; Robert J. Yanosey; Morning Sun Books, various dates. 31 OCTOBER 2007 Readers’ Gallery: PRR Open and Covered Hopper Cars by Ben Hom All photos by author unless otherwise noted. PRR 149720, Class GLC. Westerfield HO scale resin model built by Ted Fort. 2006 Valley Forge RPM Meet, Bill Lane photo. PRR 715214 Class GLA. Bowser HO scale styrene model built by Tom Devenney. 2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA. PRR 407096, Class H21. Bowser HO scale styrene model built by Tom Devenney. 2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 32 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 188000, Class H21A. Bowser N scale styrene model built by Dave Vollmer. 2005 Prototype Rails, Cocoa Beach, FL. PRR 901072, Class H21A. Bowser HO scale styrene model built by Tom Devenney. (2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA) PRR 174504 Class H21E. Kitbashed Bowser HO scale styrene model built by John Johnson. 2004 Sunshine Prototype Modelers Meeting. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 33 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 220149, Class GLD. Tichy HO scale styrene model built by Dick Flock. 2004 Sunshine Prototype Modelers Meeting. PRR 220558, Class H31. Upgraded Athearn HO scale styrene model in progress by Steve Ross; note styrene rod replacing prominent grabs, door locks from Bowser Class H21A kit spares, train line, and brake piping. 2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA. PRR 220879, Class H31B. Kitbashed Mantua HO scale styrene model built by Dave Messer. 2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 34 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 257154, Class H34A. Kadee HO ready-to-run model weathered by unknown modeler. John Teichmoeller presented modeling options and a bibliography for this class in the February 2004 issue of TKM. 2006 Valley Forge RPM Meet, Bill Lane photo. PRR 260248, Class H40. Upgraded Eastern Car Works (ex-E&B Valley) HO scale model built by Tom Haag. John Teichmoeller presented modeling options and a bibliography for this class in the February 2004 issue of TKM. 2005 RPM East Meet, Pittsburgh, PA. THE KEYSTONE MODELER 35 OCTOBER 2007 PRR 260022, Class H42. Atlas HO scale styrene model built by Larry Lawler. John Teichmoeller presented modeling options and a bibliography for this class in the February 2004 issue of TKM. 2005 Prototype Rails, Cocoa Beach, FL. Equipment Drawings from Microfilm Copies of PRR equipment drawings are available from the Society’s microfilm collection. To order drawings, you must know the drawing number and title. Ordering information and lists of arrangement drawings are available on the Society’s website, www.prrths.com, under National Society, The Interchange. If you require a printed copy of this information, please send your address and a check for $2.00 made out to PRRT&HS to: Richard C. Price, 779 Irvin Hill Road, McVeytown, PA 17051. TKM CD Issues 37-48 and 1-48 A CD of TKM issues 37-48 is now available at $15.00 for members outside of NJ ($16.05 for NJ members); TKM 1-48 with over 1,500 pages of PRR information now also is available for $60 for members outside of NJ ($64.20 for NJ members). Send a check or money order in $US made out to PRRT&HS to Al Buchan, 785 Cornwallis Drive, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054-3209. Each CD contains a very comprehensive index of all previous issues. To unsubscribe click on line below and send <mailto:[email protected]?Subject=unsubscribe> To subscribe click on the line below and send. <mailto:[email protected]?Subject=subscribe> THE KEYSTONE MODELER 36 OCTOBER 2007
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