Admittedly, I'm a steam guy, but the S-2 is in the right era. Plus, they are a bargain if there ever was one. I couldn't help myself... had to pick one up at the train show yesterday. Ran it on the club layout right away. It took off smooth and sounded very nice--a bit quieter than the other sounders on the layout perhaps.
Here's mine:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4015_zpscd57975b.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4015_zpscd57975b.jpg.html)
OK, on to the tinkering part. To remove the shell, just take off the coupler boxes and the shell lifts right off. Easy:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4022_zpsa0c53349.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4022_zpsa0c53349.jpg.html)
Here's the innards:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4023_zps884fb8bc.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4023_zps884fb8bc.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4024_zpsb240066b.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4024_zpsb240066b.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4025_zpsebb3ad4d.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4025_zpsebb3ad4d.jpg.html)
I filed down, and burnished, two whisker spring Kadees, which fit in the Bachmann boxes:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4013_zps6d65f76b.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4013_zps6d65f76b.jpg.html)
Next, I cut out two windows, in order to add a couple of crew figures. I don't know if these little switchers were a one-man operation, but mine will have a pair of workers:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4028_zpsde158ab1.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4028_zpsde158ab1.jpg.html)
That's all I have time for today, folks. Will post further as I get into weathering, weight, and any other tweaks that seem required.
Regards,
Jonathan
Jonathan-
I believe the S-2's weight qualified it for a fireman in addition to the engineer.
-- D
Thanks for that, Doneldon. Didn't want my engineer to be lonely. :)
For the folks with DCC questions, the "Quick Start" guide provides some useful info:
1. The Soundtraxx decoder comes with Hyperdrive which includes Back-EMF and the other usual programming controls. The CVs are not listed anywhere in the paperwork, but one can access those details online.
2. Throttle controls: F0=Headlight which dims in reverse; F1=Bell; F2=Longhorn; F3=Shorthorn; F7=light dimmer; and F8=Mute. F4, F5, and F6 are used on the DD40AX, not the S-2.
I cycled through the controls on my UT-R4 throttle and everything worked fine. Our club operates on Digitrax.
Have not run it on my DC home layout yet.
One additional note: The included diagram is much more clear and easy to understand than past diagrams; a noticable improvement. Thanks Bachmann!
Regards,
Jonathan
any locomotive over 44 tons required a two man crew.
Thanks, Jeffery. Double confirmation is good enough for me.
I found plenty of color photos of the prototype to go by. I see the loco will require a bell on the nose and several 18" grabs up front, too. Finally, the exhaust will need about six scale inches added to the top.
As this is not a Spectrum model, I was not expecting alot of added details. However, the model seems to follow the prototype quite well, making is easy to add things, without have to cut off anything.
There is next to zero free space inside the model. Perhaps I can add a bit of weight to the cab roof and just maybe a few slivers of weight above the electronics if I'm careful. Loco doesn't need pulling weight, just a little bit extra to ensure good rail contact.
Regards,
Jonathan
Jonathan,
Can not wait to see what you can do with a diesel ;D. Looking forward to the progress reports.
I ran mine on a LHS's DC layout and it ran just as smooth as the DCC, just needed that little bit more of throttle and seemed to move as smooth as if it were on my layout.
Jerry
Quote from: jonathan on April 14, 2014, 08:31:17 AM
Thanks, Jeffery. Double confirmation is good enough for me.
I found plenty of color photos of the prototype to go by. I see the loco will require a bell on the nose and several 18" grabs up front, too. Finally, the exhaust will need about six scale inches added to the top.
As this is not a Spectrum model, I was not expecting alot of added details. However, the model seems to follow the prototype quite well, making is easy to add things, without have to cut off anything.
There is next to zero free space inside the model. Perhaps I can add a bit of weight to the cab roof and just maybe a few slivers of weight above the electronics if I'm careful. Loco doesn't need pulling weight, just a little bit extra to ensure good rail contact.
Regards,
Jonathan
Just got back from Spring Break. Here's a little update.
Added some grabs and a little extra piping so far. Admittedly, not much progress so far, but it's something:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4035_zps69569b0e.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4035_zps69569b0e.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4031_zps2786c128.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4031_zps2786c128.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4034_zps5baf1145.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4034_zps5baf1145.jpg.html)
Bracket for the bell:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4039_zps8fb4e0a4.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4039_zps8fb4e0a4.jpg.html)
Still have to find a really, really dark blue to paint the details added. Weathering will blend it all together I think.
Anyway, now that I'm back home, I should be able to move forward a bit more quickly
Regards,
Jonathan
Exhaust extension:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4040_zpsf91572bc.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4040_zpsf91572bc.jpg.html)
Bell Bracket installed--I put a bit of epoxy on the end of the wire to represent the clapper:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4041_zpsd6b16fdb.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4041_zpsd6b16fdb.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4043_zpsc00db7da.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4043_zpsc00db7da.jpg.html)
I took a photo of the loco upside-down and flipped it over, in order to test fit the bell, which will be installed last:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4044_zps3b635cbd.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4044_zps3b635cbd.jpg.html)
Just enough space to squeeze in a tungsten weight recycled from a retired pinewood derby car:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4045_zps8a8c8ae0.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4045_zps8a8c8ae0.jpg.html)
Now on to a couple of placards for the sides and try to hunt down some paint.
Regards,
Jonathan
Jonathan;
Turncoat! (ha ha). Looks to be a pretty good model-right out of the box it even looks like a lot of potential to be in sync with a lot of roads. You did a heck of a fine job-as usual. I just picked up a DM&IR 2-8-2; looks a little ratty, but does run. This locomotive caught my eye really well many years ago-almost as good as my girlfriend did... And when I saw it on Evil-Bay, had to get it. Still some plating on the wheels. This is the baby that is gonna get a "bath", some pickling, and I am going to experiment around with blackening-just can't get the idea out of my head.
Rich C.
Thanks EWK.
Well, I couldn't match the paint exactly, but I believe it's close enough to start prepping the dullcote and weathering paints:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN4047_zps47c23843.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Projects/DSCN4047_zps47c23843.jpg.html)
Could use a bit of a rinse, too (dust).
Regards,
Jonathan
Jonathan;
You said "Preparing the dullcoat and weathering". Do you mix them?
Rich C.
Rich,
No. I just get everything lined up first. The shell will get a mist of dullcote, after I mask off the windows. Then I'll start applying colors from dark to light: grays, then browns and a muddy light brown.
I'm hoping the weathering process will hide the little discrepancy in the dark blue I've applied.
Regards,
Jonathan
OK, to recap: new couplers, six new grabirons, removed bell from underneath and replaced with new bell up front, cut out windows, added crew figures, added a couple of pipes, some severe weathering, and I'm sure I've forgotten something.
I have ordered a set of diesel air hoses to complete the project. That should be enough details to keep me happy. :)
As stated previously, Bachmann did a great job of producing a pretty darn accurate S-2. Great job, Bachmann! Loco just needed a few tweaks to make it look like #9129--a locomotive that actually existed.
The model runs, and sounds, very nice.
What follows are a few final shots at various angles. The last picture is for SOMEONE who said I needed to add a few living details around my roundhouse! ;D
Regards,
Jonathan
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4084_zps1cabbf83.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4084_zps1cabbf83.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4076_zps9f6ee7ee.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4076_zps9f6ee7ee.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4085_zpse31a5d5a.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4085_zpse31a5d5a.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4074_zpsede7d844.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4074_zpsede7d844.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4070_zps1e6a9a47.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4070_zps1e6a9a47.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4064_zpsef4e32ea.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4064_zpsef4e32ea.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4092_zpsddaf68d8.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4092_zpsddaf68d8.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4093_zps21220b9c.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4093_zps21220b9c.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4095_zpseaccc544.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4095_zpseaccc544.jpg.html)
Jonathan-
I don't think I'd call that "severe weathering," but I would definitely call it outstanding work. Your skills continue to impress.
-- D
:) "Severe" is relative. The more I model, the more I add weathering. Getting more brazen with dirt and rust as time passes.
Thanks, Doneldon. This may become an e-mag article, if I can get a few more details right.
Regards,
Jonathan
Jonathan-
Why go the e-zine route? Submit a proposal to one of the hard
copy publications and you can get some good cash.
-- D
Jonathan,
Nice Job,I appreciate your artistic talent.We found the same spot for the weight in the long hood I guess great minds think alike!There is another spot inside the bracket that hold up the circuit board just in front of the cab .I trimmed up a couple of sticky automotive wheel weights and put a few there .Working on forming some at the end of the long hood in each corner, Next to the headlight board.By the way,What was your time frame on doing all this work may I ask??
Jack
Jonathan:
NICE WORK!!!
John
Thanks, guys!
Let's see... over the course of 10 days I spent perhaps an hour a day, sometimes 1.5 hours. The air hoses just arrived today, so I have about an hour's work to get them mounted and weathered.
I should mention I totally blew the history on this loco. #9129 was acquired from the C&O in 1963. The B&O didn't own this S-2 in the '50s. Oops. The bell and vertical grabs on the rear were C&O creations, but the B&O did keep the details. The '50s B&O S-2s were numbered 9000-9114. I would have been better off renumbering the locomotive. However, I really like the new details. Will just have to fast forward to the '60s on my layout, every now and again. :) ...or just run this loco on the club layouts.
Regards,
Jonathan
Really nice work there Jonathan.
Thanks, Roger.
OK last shots--the air hoses are installed and weathered. I put a touch of silver on the connectors and a little red on the handles. After weathering, it's hard to tell there are other colors.
Regards,
Jonathan
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4131_zps4f714100.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4131_zps4f714100.jpg.html)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4121_zpseac1728a.jpg) (http://s642.photobucket.com/user/jsnvogel/media/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN4121_zpseac1728a.jpg.html)
Hi Jonathan;
Great work. I think Doneldon had a pretty valid point. Money aside, it would add to your happiness level, I am sure, to have that model in one of the mags.
Your last shot reminds me of Atlantic Ave in Boston. The Union Freight co. was moving a string of reefers (I think) along one middle of the street, traffic was stopped dead for what seemed like a whole hour while they fiddled around. The S-2 was either a New York Central or Boston and Albany (Kinda dates me, eh?), and all I can remember was the rumbling clanking sound of that locomotive (we were right beside it) and learning "Greek" from a very frustrated "Pappou" (grandfather). I like your weathering-it isn't overly done. Some of my stuff looks like it was spotted under a very large and "regular" rookery...
Rich C.
Jonathan I followed your link to this older thread and regarding the exposed decoder board are the black plastic clips merely mechanically holding the wires in contact with the board? I see where this might be a future problem that soldering the wires would help. Is this correct? Thanks, Paul Might this also be a problem area on all Sound Value engines?
I have been tempted to solder those wires to the board, but haven't done it. I haven't had any issues with the S-2 for a long, long time. I had planned to solder the clip-ons, only if continuity problems continued. So far, so good....
Regards,
Jonathan
Hello, either I missed this thread the first time somehow, or I forgot about it, but I want to congratulate you on some nice work!
I'm particularly intrigued by the extra hand rails added at the cab end. Unless the B&O copied the C&O, that may well be a former Chessie unit transferred to the B&O around the early 1960s.
I'll have to check my C&O diesel book to be sure!!
Good work again!!
Thanks J3a!
And yes. B&O acquired #9129 from the C&O in 1963. Found that out after all that work. Ah well. I also have a 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 which sat in my last 1950's layout. It was my first car and I wanted to park myself in the layout somehow, so... I fudged a bit.
Regards,
Jonathan
Talk about a rarity!! Apparently three Alcos got Chessie paint! Who would have imagined it?
This one looks like it might be former B&O:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/trainplanepro/48157152871/?fbclid=IwAR2cZD9StlI2fOjEQX_x7a7sSNJKtaVD3e8FuoTxdXInYFHoltxWZJlKhl0
Quote from: J3a-614 on July 01, 2019, 12:37:34 PM
Talk about a rarity!! Apparently three Alcos got Chessie paint! Who would have imagined it?
This one looks like it might be former B&O:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/trainplanepro/48157152871/?fbclid=IwAR2cZD9StlI2fOjEQX_x7a7sSNJKtaVD3e8FuoTxdXInYFHoltxWZJlKhl0
All three were S2s assigned to Glenwood, PA and were fixtures in the Pittsburgh area. They were all original B&O units. One was apparently later repainted back to B&O blue.