06-26-2015, 09:24 AM
If you can find suitable mechanisms (frame, trucks and motor), neither of those locos would be that difficult to scratchbuild in styrene. Archer's line of rivet and louvre decals will provide some of the necessary details, while other major features can be added with styrene and/or wire parts, fabricated to suit.
The Z-5-a looks a lot like the GE 80/85 Tonners used at the steel plant where I worked, although I'm not aware of any models of such locos.
![[Image: STELCO53-view2.jpg]](http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b399/doctorwayne/STELCO%20photos/STELCO53-view2.jpg)
The large louvres on the sides could be easily done with Evergreen clapboard siding, while Detail Associates offers many diesel details that could be used for headlights, etc. The class lights look similar to those by Cal Scale (Bowser) or Precision Scale.
The MDC boxcab is a good starting point for the Z-1-a, but for a more accurate model, scratchbuilding those relatively simple shapes wouldn't be difficult if you have some similar experience with styrene. Again, finding a suitable mechanism should be your starting point. I'd suggest looking at Athearn Blue Box switchers, along with the Alco switchers from Atlas and also check out some of the Baldwin locos offered by Stewart (Bowser).
Wayne
The Z-5-a looks a lot like the GE 80/85 Tonners used at the steel plant where I worked, although I'm not aware of any models of such locos.
The large louvres on the sides could be easily done with Evergreen clapboard siding, while Detail Associates offers many diesel details that could be used for headlights, etc. The class lights look similar to those by Cal Scale (Bowser) or Precision Scale.
The MDC boxcab is a good starting point for the Z-1-a, but for a more accurate model, scratchbuilding those relatively simple shapes wouldn't be difficult if you have some similar experience with styrene. Again, finding a suitable mechanism should be your starting point. I'd suggest looking at Athearn Blue Box switchers, along with the Alco switchers from Atlas and also check out some of the Baldwin locos offered by Stewart (Bowser).
Wayne