Building Frisco Caboose #777

I removed it after seeing several prototype cabooses without one. I couldn't see one on the prototype photo I was using so I used my modeler's license. I hope it doesn't get revoked!

 

I can see where there would be no need for a front platform.

 

All the proto photos I've seen have the front door but with two bars across them.

 

Here's an example. I think I'll also add the grab irons on the front end. I didn't pay attention to or think about those grab irons until you asked about the door and platform. Thanks, I owe you one.

 

I wonder how many times a crew wished there was easier access at that end?

 

I don't know but do you all think that a guy was supposed to be able to climb up the front end using the grabs and door block irons? Maybe even climbing up by going out through the door way? Beats me. Anyway, tonight I added the front grabs. That was bugging me.

 

No stirrups visible. That might have been the only way to ride the car during switching moves?

 

Now that's a couple of interesting thoughts. WW1 troop train. I wonder if those existed? Hmmm. Can you imagine how creepy it would've been climbing from that onto a box car while rolling along the rails. Yikes! I bet OSHA would cringe.

 

Seems like we have a small mystery. Where is Sherlock Holmes when he's needed?

 

Okay, I'm wrapping this project up and going to give you folks a break from old #777. I've added the cupola braces, front end grab irons, bathroom roof vent (I think that's what it is) and finished the roof walk. This is pretty much how it will look. I've ordered the correct large leaf spring arch bar trucks, smoke jack and a Sountraxx Soundcar decoder. After I finish the electronics I'll post a pic of it with the marker lamps lit and the correct trucks. I'll also add a little interior lamp all of which will be controlled individually with the decoder. Thank you for following along and for helping me.

 

What a fascinating and intriguing project this has been. As I said earlier, you can be VERY proud of this unique model.

Sent from my Hudl 2 using Tapatalk

 

Thank you, Alan! It was as fun sharing the progress with the forum as it was building it.

 

Always makes me sad when such an interesting topic winds down!

 

I will jump in and also say great effort Jim, all the discussion and input along the way was enjoyable, the end result is indeed a classy, scratch built caboose you wont see anywhere else for sure.

 

Thanks, Tom. That means a lot coming from a skilled craftsman such yourself. And you know it wouldn't look as prototypical if not for your help.

 

Thought I would revive this old thread for a brief update on the project. I'm going to install a Soundtraxx Soundcar decoder with a sweet sound sugar cube speaker and a Current Keeper. I'm using resistors because of the incandescent lights. In addition to the marker lamps I want to add an interior desk lamp. I can control these lights indepently thanks to the decoder. Over the weekend I was able to fabricate electrical pick up for all eight caboose wheels. This was tough because of the two piece truck bolster design but I cobbled something together and it tested good. Here's a couple photos.

 

What sorts of sounds will that decoder provide?