I'm using a Boulder Valley Models kit that converts an HO Bachmann 3 truck Shay into an On30 2 truck Shay. It isn't perfect but it suites my needs. I won't use the kit supplied cab or tender body because I'm making it into an open cab rebuild. I'll make a wood sided tender and a long roof covering much of the loco. I'll admit to freelancing a bit but I'm trying to replicate a "in the spirit" logging loco of the Southeast Missouri turn of the century logging tram type.
Is this kit era specific? Or does it have options such as stack, domes, headlight for a later period?
I'm not exactly sure as to the era but the domes included in the kit point to a very early loco. The only headlight option is a large square oil type. I'm not sure about the roof materiel but I need to decide soon! In my modeler's mind I'm shooting for an old Shay given new life by being purchased and rebuilt by a backwoods logging endeavor. I'm just going to have fun with this project while staying within reason.
I am kinda stuck on the appearance of Shays I saw as a boy, such as what Rayonier was running. Electric round headlights, smooth domes, straight shotgun stacks, steel cabs, etc.
More progress. I finished the backhead details and got some painting done. Those danged valve handles have to be cut out of a sheet of resin. Tedious work on some of these detail parts but I like the results. Next I'll scratchbuild the fuel bunker and long roof. I'll be using a Tsunami light logging decoder in this eventually.
How much material does the end user need to provide? Is your scratch building a personal choice? Or required as part of assembly?
Thanks, Joe. I used Testors rattle can flat black followed by a misting of Panzer gray. I'm kinda free styling on this project. Here's a pic of tonight's progress.
Great job, Jim! I love geared locos, and I've never thought of using an On3 narrow gauge on HO rails. What code rail are you using in this display?
