HO Grand Trunk 2-8-0 (Class D2)

[sailormatlac]

The starting point is a sound-equipped Bachmann Spectrum Maine Central #507 Consolidation.



Using Adobe Illustrator, I compared both the model and the prototype identify where major modifications will be required and to determine the precise dimension and location of new parts. I made a quick mock up of a Grand Trunk 2-8-0 with the lower running board.



Then I made a second mock up for the CNoR locomotiqve. It's that version I'll be building.



The first big challenge was removing the domes. As previously stated, the glue used is incredibly strong and I broke the model in two halves when trying to get rid of a stubborn sand dome.



Fortunately, I found out lacquer thinner was strong enough to molten the glue and pop the domes with a small metal rod.



I'll be honest, I had quite a good laugh when I saw the boiler split in the middle... It was totally impredictable. But don't worry, the fracture is neat and once glued and sanded down, it was no more apparent.

Here a quick shot of the progress so far. The domes have been swapped and the large sand dome is under surgery to slim down enough to fit the prototype. More on that unusual method later.



Most of the work on the cab is now done. The windows are now back to their original dimensions, leaving a nice flat panel to paint the CNoR logo. I used 2mm styrene strips to reframe the opening. Two roof hatches were also sanded down. A second one will have to be built at a later time.

Matt