After converting GG-1s to GG-1Ds ["D" for diesel power], i thought i had traumatized the purist enough-not so now. I recently got a great deal on three Bachmann Spectrum undecorated GE DASH 8-40CWs-a truely beautiful locomotive to me. In each box were two spare cabs. I have had six pair of Athearn U-30-Bs that i picked up at a GATS a few years ago-nice running locos, but boring bodies to me. A little dremel cutting and my U-boat suddenly had a fine looking, modern wide cab! These three pairs will now have the pleasure of hauling commuter trains on my RR. Now that's freelancing to me! Curt
Curt, The purists may be crying in the isles...but I love it !! I once built a rail inspection car from an old 0-4-0 and some balsa wood. Add a cut down passenger car roof, and a stack and BINGO !! Keep up the good work!! Happy Modeling!! John
You inspired me John-i've got these Athearn shorty passenger cars that look funny with my AHM full sized ones. I could take the some FM "A" units i got on clearance from IHC and splice up a couple modern Doodlebugs for my commuter service! You are truely worthy of being moderator of this freelance message board-thank you. Curt
Sounds like the F45B I once saw- and no, it never existed in real life, but what's real to a freelancer? This locomotive was weighed down to the max, geared low, and could pull the paint off a wall. I'd like to see those wide-nose U-boats when you get 'em done!
I'd like to see em too!! Post a pic if you have the time! I have also been designing doodlebug concepts from old Con-Cor passenger cars. Have not built one yet, but maybe this winter ! For a quick freelance conversion, take an old bobber caboose shell and mount it on one end of a flat car. Throw some old pieces of rusted rail, chain, ties etc. on the rmainder of the flat car and you have a cool work train car. Happy Modeling!! John
