Trains O Scale – Detailing Your Rolling Stock
Detailing can turn good model trains into great ones. Companies that manufacture your trains O scale, HO scale, N scale, etc., are producing highly detailed models that closely resemble the prototype. More often than not, however, the modeler needs to add the finishing touches to complete the job.
Detailing and Research
When you remove rolling stock from its box, it may look really close to what you think the prototype actually looks like. However, if you want your model to look as authentic as possible you will need to do some research. Two great places to find train photos are at:
www.rr-fallenflags.org & www.rrpicturearchives.net
When you compare your trains O scale, or any scales, locomotive to a photo of the genuine article you may notice that some things are not the same. Parts like air brake piping, grab irons, roof walks, coupler cut levers, etc., may not be included but they are available from online suppliers.
Some upgrades are simple and won’t take much time or need many parts, but others can be quite challenging. Fortunately, you can find virtually any part you need to make your train more realistic. Decals are also available for all scales to add numbers or letters that were not included on your original equipment or to replace what is there.
If the color scheme on your model doesn’t match the prototype photo then you will need to paint. Airbrushing is the best solution as it provides a smooth and even finish. If you need to paint more than one color, use tape to mask the areas of the model that should not be painted. When the area you have already painted is dry repeat the process by masking it and paint the remaining section.
Adding Too Much Realism?
If you’ve just purchased a locomotive, or painted one, it will fail the realism test. After all, how often do you see a brand new train…anywhere? Check out my article on weathering railway layouts to see how to make your new rolling stock look old.
Now this next step may not be something you think is necessary and I agree, although others will disagree. It will definitely add a great deal of authenticity to your train cars and make them unique. In fact, you can use it to actually personalize your models.
How about adding graffiti?
Whether you see it as vandalism or art graffiti is a part of our culture and is found virtually everywhere there is a ‘canvas’, and that includes railroad cars. Some companies actually make graffiti decals that you can buy. Alternately, you can use different colored gel pens to make your design or outline your artwork with a pencil and color it in with paint or artists ink.
The amount of detail you want to add is totally a matter of taste. When you take your trains O scale or HO scale model out of its box it may already contain all the detail you feel is necessary. Typically, however, there is always some detail that is lacking.