I recently attempted to install the NWSL steel replacement gears on one of my Shays, and ended up bending the lineshaft in the process.  I would like to successfully complete this process, but I can't see a way to do it without destroying the brittle plastic parts.  I read the directions to a "T" and did what they said, but it literally seemed impossible to do.  I must have spent four or five hours on a single truck.  I had no troubles really with taking the old gears off, but I just couldn't get the new ones on at all.

Any suggestions to make it easier?

A while back, I bought some of Testors decal making paper, and attempted to make decals with it.  While the paper works fine for dark images, the standard inkjet printer doesn't allow you to make lighter colored decals (i.e. yellow, white).  I saw that there is also "White" decal paper available as well (as opposed to the "Clear" that I purchased)...but would the white decal paper only make the lettering with a white background, or does it mean that when I cut out the decal the whole thing will be white?  I am wanting to place the yellow lettering on a black surface.

Also, as opposed to decals, I used to know someone who said he bought custom silkscreens from Athearn (?), and would then use them to detail his own boxcars and then sell them.  I have checked Athearn's website and have found nothing about this, and the person has since moved away/lost contact with me.  Any ideas?

Hi!

I am looking for the HO excursion cars with the Cass Scenic Railroad emblem on the side to operate with my new Climax #9.  Has Bachmann quit making them already?  Please let me know where I can find them in stock, I have looked everywhere and even called Cass and can't find them.  Also, please let me know when the next shipment is expected so that I can watch for them to come in stock if they haven't been discontinued.

Thanks!