1st attempt adding scenic details

I started building my layout about 6 years ago.  Progress has been very slow but steady.  One aspect of building the layout that I was always looking forward to doing was adding all the scenic details.  While I have been trying to be logical in completing the layout tasks in the correct order I just couldn't wait any longer to try my hand at some scenic details.  After seeing the amazing scenic work of  Ralph on his King's Port Division and John on his NYCTL I had to jump in the water and give it a try.  I picked a small area running parallel to a mainline adding an old narrow country gravel road.

This is my first attempt of doing any scenic work but I think it came out well. Still want to add a few more items along the right of way, but I am happy with the outcome.

PC Coal Hoppers Finished

Finished up the repaint and letter of 4 Western Maryland coal hoppers into PC livery.  I picked up all 4 hoppers at our LHS.  Three of them were new old stock and the 4th was mint condition. All 4 were in the bargain bin for $13 ea. which is very cheap for a good 0-scale car.  This the same bargain bin where I found that nice PRR boxcar a couple of weeks ago.  I think these cars were in the bin because the road name not being all that popular.

Here they are stripped and primed.

Here they are painted and decaled.  This is my first attempt at weathering and I have to say it was great fun.  Being a toy train guy the thought of weathering anything was never a thought for me.  However, I became a fan after seeing John and Ralph's beautiful weathering jobs.  I can see where this could become addicting.

 

Some other projects underway is the wiring of the Transfer Table as well as a number of operating accessories in the new Industrial Complex. Also try my hand at some scenic details.  Should be able to post some photos of that  in a few days. Progress is slow but moving ahead.

Swap Meet Treasures

Last Saturday, Sir John and I headed over to the local hobby shop with pockets heavy with cash in hopes of finding some great deals and unexpected finds.  Neither of us were disappointed.

Fortunately I was quickly relieved of a portion of my heavy cash load.   Being the eagle eyed investigator that he is Sir John quickly spotted a beautiful cow and calf set of Union Pacific NW-2's.  With the huge expansion of the East Hoschton Industrial Complex it was clear to upper management  that the railroad would be woefully short of adequate switcher  power to service the complex. 

Great find (by Sir John) which will help fill in a huge gap in switcher power. Has very little run time and exterior is in mint condition. Direction control is sketchy.  I don't yet know if this has an e-unit or circuit board for direction.  Either way it is an easy fix. Additionally, this is about the fastest locomotive I have ever owned.  It has dual motors wired in parallel.  Think I will rewire them in series to slow it down. Should result in slower startup speed.

 

 Put to work immediately moving out a couple of Morton Salt Hoppers.  It is anticipated that there will be a TREMENDOUS increase in demand for Morton Salt, as evidenced by the almost certain construction of not 1 but 2  Morton Salt facilities at A.P.P.R. northern and southern facilities.

Also found a mint condition used PRR Boxcar in the bargain bin. Not sure how it made its way to the bargain bin but it now has a home.

As always it was a terrific day meeting up with John and hunting for some treasures.