04-21-2012, 12:54 PM
I've read the opinion that for many models and modelers, it's sufficient to make some easily recognized changes, like installing metal grab irons on the corner roof walks. This will "spoof" viewers into assuming other changes have been made, and on a layout under ordinary conditions, this is plenty. I think it's important to maintain an overall balance in what work goes where -- on a layout, you have track, wiring, decoders if you're on DCC, signals, structures, operation, scenery, etc etc etc. Some guys go the whole nine yards on freight car details, but this raises several questions. One is that some details, like coupler lift levers, will catch on sleeves during normal operation. Another is that many details are delicate and are easily damaged in normal operation. Another is just that there's a lot of work involved in adding each additional detail, but you have the economic principle of diminishing returns.
As far as I can tell, at least in my part of the US, "prototype modeler" meets, where guys bring ultra-detailed freight cars to show, are less and less popular. Urethane manufacturers, like Westerfield and Rail Yard Models, are gradually leaving the business. My own view is that where my interests are concerned, trying to maintain an overall balance among all the facets of the hobby, Accurail cars with fairly minimal added detail, paint improvements, and weathering, suit my pocketbook and my preference for effort vs effect. But this is something individuals have to work out for themselves.
As far as I can tell, at least in my part of the US, "prototype modeler" meets, where guys bring ultra-detailed freight cars to show, are less and less popular. Urethane manufacturers, like Westerfield and Rail Yard Models, are gradually leaving the business. My own view is that where my interests are concerned, trying to maintain an overall balance among all the facets of the hobby, Accurail cars with fairly minimal added detail, paint improvements, and weathering, suit my pocketbook and my preference for effort vs effect. But this is something individuals have to work out for themselves.