tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11692601940194357402024-03-13T07:41:30.864-05:00Michigan Interstate St. Clair Sub.An inside look at the planning, construction, and operation of my 10x12 double deck HO scale model railroad set in current day Mid-Michigan. Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.comBlogger287125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-18018443926087194982018-10-02T23:46:00.002-05:002018-10-03T00:02:58.359-05:00August - September Update <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here it is October 2nd and I am now just getting the opportunity to write my update post of August and September. Since my last post documenting the retirement of EMD GP30s from service, there have been quite a few changes to the layout that everyone needs to get caught up on. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ACTIVATION OF SD60Ms</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">July saw the departure of MCIS EMD GP30 and GP60 fleets. To help offset MCIS had purchased a three unit fleet of EMD SD60Ms in 2016 when they had been parked. At the time the units were stored for overhaul and eventual re-activation. MCIS 6085 and 6086 released from MAC Rail in September and went into service equipped with Soundtraxx Tsunami2 sound. MCIS 6087 expected to be in service January 2019. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All three motors came from BNSF and have been equipped with PTC equipment to operate over CN trackage rights and GPS for e-DTC operation on home rails. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> MCIS 6085 (Full repaint by Fogelsinger Rail)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <i>MCIS 6086 (ex. BNSF patch by VMS)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Both motors were hard wire rebuilt from the trucks up to improve performance. </i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">IT ALL BEGAN WITH A BOOK</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For sometime I have struggled to find the right fit of industries for my Bay Industrial Spur. While it did host a river side cement terminal, asphalt terminal, and corrugated box plant it felt too crammed. After reading Bernie Kempinski's recent Waterfront Terminals and Operations book I was inspired to make changes, all due to modeling a boat...... A good friend and modeler told me earlier this summer "While you have the generic midwest theme going on, a lake freighter would firmly plant your layout on the Great Lakes", and he was absolutely right! Seeing that Deans Marine model on Bernie's layout sold me, now to figure out the plan. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Part 1 - Location</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So like a good plan I started to sketch out ideas on napkins or printer paper to get a feel of what would work. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftTNQnKcDYM/W7QzjBk5dQI/AAAAAAAAFmk/M_yPtQ6v9ocRXWg3qVYhIUI5ahTP3SEIQCLcBGAs/s1600/2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftTNQnKcDYM/W7QzjBk5dQI/AAAAAAAAFmk/M_yPtQ6v9ocRXWg3qVYhIUI5ahTP3SEIQCLcBGAs/s400/2.PNG" width="223" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lafarge terminal in Delray, Michigan (Detroit River) - Google Earth 3D</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pj9UMA6IjYU/W7Qzjh_1H0I/AAAAAAAAFms/e2-rns4cM9Aa_pjzstAUz0lhY99UImv0ACLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pj9UMA6IjYU/W7Qzjh_1H0I/AAAAAAAAFms/e2-rns4cM9Aa_pjzstAUz0lhY99UImv0ACLcBGAs/s400/4.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sketching up the idea</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Using the prototype, a common boat / rail served industry all over the lakes is cement. I already had the Graystone Cement terminal but it was against the backdrop. Trying to weight all my options I looked at placing a lake freighter on the backdrop behind the silos but the mock-ups didnt look that good. So how about a full scale model... 6" wide x 56" long.....will need some real estate. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HW2IHsvWGgw/W7QziGN9_iI/AAAAAAAAFmU/qgyvFEgYUAcvW8GKgGRZ5Np-EopQNDvpwCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HW2IHsvWGgw/W7QziGN9_iI/AAAAAAAAFmU/qgyvFEgYUAcvW8GKgGRZ5Np-EopQNDvpwCLcBGAs/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Mocking up where boat would go with culprit inspirational book.....</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After reviewing the space needed for a smaller cement laker / barge slip I was comfortable with sacrificing the space to help create a more immersive industry. It was not until this point that the area finally felt balanced with only having one industry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Using my jigsaw I made quick work of cutting the 2" foam out from the river crossing up 60" to the entrance to the layout. I ended up cutting a width of 8" to allow for room for pilings / piers and placing a good backdrop behind where the ship will go. Using the cut foam I traced onto OSB and replaced back in its place. The neat part is the river scene and boat slip are connected bringing a better waterfront feel. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ydbrORxZ88/W7Qzj2r6xBI/AAAAAAAAFm0/W2_GKn0VHhwpk32_XYdBqEmfe2l7EWk7gCLcBGAs/s1600/5A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ydbrORxZ88/W7Qzj2r6xBI/AAAAAAAAFm0/W2_GKn0VHhwpk32_XYdBqEmfe2l7EWk7gCLcBGAs/s400/5A.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <i>View west towards Saginaw River</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRUZvdd3Ou8/W7QzkoiJW3I/AAAAAAAAFm8/ORmPuse9BHsgAwkIhF10Ao2wCJGJhUpCQCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRUZvdd3Ou8/W7QzkoiJW3I/AAAAAAAAFm8/ORmPuse9BHsgAwkIhF10Ao2wCJGJhUpCQCLcBGAs/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> View east towards cement terminal</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQudYFn3wCY/W7QzlQvH82I/AAAAAAAAFnE/QwXFCX9EzIc0Z-hdkhAn5m_rOy3yxsCMACLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQudYFn3wCY/W7QzlQvH82I/AAAAAAAAFnE/QwXFCX9EzIc0Z-hdkhAn5m_rOy3yxsCMACLcBGAs/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Sheet piling from Walthers, Piling from ModelTrainStuff</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This fall will see the completion of the dockside scene with painting the OSB and deciding if I will use water or just clear coats to show water depth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Guess with the work done, now I need a boat.... hope I can find something maybe even a barge / tug combo ever so present on the Great Lakes now. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Part 2 - Find a Boat </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Searching for a 1/87 is not exactly easy and there are kits but to get a modern like boat I needed some help since Bearco Marine does not appear to be in business anymore. Low and behold I found a kit on Ebay that was of the Amoco Indiana tanker. I had talked with a few modelers who had kitbashed the Sylvan laker and gave me their opinions to consider based on what I wanted to accomplish in the end. Taking all the input and being a modern era layout, the Bearco kit seemed like the best choice. Thanks again to Mat Thompson, and Ken Larsen for answering my questions on the lake freighter path. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The box for the kit was well big.. Ended up doing UPS customer pickup so I could take the directions on vacation and read through them no less than a dozen times. This was a craftsman kit, and the opportunity to build was going to take my modeling skills to a new level. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVwZp_-ZVGM/W7Q57sKC6vI/AAAAAAAAFpA/ibBy1ObcS0oxbs1D4So_MWnqGU0QaBd-wCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVwZp_-ZVGM/W7Q57sKC6vI/AAAAAAAAFpA/ibBy1ObcS0oxbs1D4So_MWnqGU0QaBd-wCLcBGAs/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Kitchen table for reference...... lots of extra plastic</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ovn7Az5R1m8/W7Qzi7fn7PI/AAAAAAAAFoo/cDEiLG1KPgIXjqOL0Yo7yASXRTOcMh8tgCEwYBhgL/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ovn7Az5R1m8/W7Qzi7fn7PI/AAAAAAAAFoo/cDEiLG1KPgIXjqOL0Yo7yASXRTOcMh8tgCEwYBhgL/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Selective Compression..... hehe</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Part 3 - M/V Graystone Conquest (Launched)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Suppose the easy part of figuring out the location and buying a boat were done. Now came the task of putting my modeling skills to use and build the laker. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After reading the instructions no less than two dozen times by now, I started on the ship. First thing to do was trace the bow - deck - stern as the hull has alot of excess vacuum formed plastic. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD_7Zz8vU5A/W7QzmOsZuGI/AAAAAAAAFoc/uZVUAYGYDtEGM-fIgx4K02HS6_AInd-VQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD_7Zz8vU5A/W7QzmOsZuGI/AAAAAAAAFoc/uZVUAYGYDtEGM-fIgx4K02HS6_AInd-VQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1770.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> Beginning the journey, tools of the trade</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzlqLZXykEQ/W7QzmTzQElI/AAAAAAAAFog/_QbcHOMhgJswHZLQ7pVqoM9SW6YnHsLjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzlqLZXykEQ/W7QzmTzQElI/AAAAAAAAFog/_QbcHOMhgJswHZLQ7pVqoM9SW6YnHsLjQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1771.jpg" width="400" /></i></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> Tracing the bow / drilling out the portholes</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Working with a good friend who is a woodworking shop, we used a dremel mult-max to cut down the hull to the right height. From there it was going to be old fashioned sweat to get the ship level and prepared for moving further with the build. The directions are well done and keep you on task in order. Mind you this is all happening outside during the heat of August in Texas.... Call it exercise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Ensuring stern / main deck / bow all are even and level - good ole visual check</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <i>"Power" tools and plenty of plastic shavings</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Test fitting the deck and hull (two complete pieces)</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3yLyU37ukXM/W7Qzno5qUFI/AAAAAAAAFoo/RdqRd1ACyz8GlMLorBH_qTR9DrSo16gNQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3yLyU37ukXM/W7Qzno5qUFI/AAAAAAAAFoo/RdqRd1ACyz8GlMLorBH_qTR9DrSo16gNQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1785.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>After sanding with 250 / 400 / 1500 grit, time for primer</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Part 4 - M/V Graystone Conquest (Outfitting)</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8oAgi5s7BKY/W7Qzn-k8oTI/AAAAAAAAFow/3z4k4ZSlpKAb1gRoJHIWVD_1F9PfgRJFQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8oAgi5s7BKY/W7Qzn-k8oTI/AAAAAAAAFow/3z4k4ZSlpKAb1gRoJHIWVD_1F9PfgRJFQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1810.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>First details added (16 watertight door castings)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I was installing the door castings, I realized that even with a good smooth back the door had a gap between them and the rear cabin wall. For this project I used the Vallejo plastic putty in the fine applicator packaging. This stuff is great. Once the door were properly sealed I painted the forward and rear cabins flat white. The forward, main, and rear deck received aged concrete color with a weathered chalk effect from Rustoleum. The hull received a satin winter gray which was slightly darker than the primer. </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2thMXdt_pY/W7Qzo3sIiCI/AAAAAAAAFok/sHoFC4_vh7IAcM5uyv3d_rYfPMcKml5dwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2thMXdt_pY/W7Qzo3sIiCI/AAAAAAAAFok/sHoFC4_vh7IAcM5uyv3d_rYfPMcKml5dwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2012.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Boat is beginning to take shape</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once the hull and deck are cut to size, test fit, glued together, and painted it now becomes a process of detailing out the boat to the modelers preference. The kit comes with a great assortment of white metal cast pieces that I will be using. Since this is a freelance cement laker, the walkways and vent stacks for the intended tanker kit will not be used. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From here the kit comes with stripwood and styrene sheets needed to fashion different parts of the boat. I decided to use Microscale Krystal Kleer for the port holes versus the clear plastic sheet. I forgot to mention this has to be done after painting the sections, but before the deck and hull are glued together. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SX6RGO0JFB8/W7QzpizQDVI/AAAAAAAAFok/BrJebcsJ6UkJ4FycCvwNQJ_uZdG-YOYVwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SX6RGO0JFB8/W7QzpizQDVI/AAAAAAAAFok/BrJebcsJ6UkJ4FycCvwNQJ_uZdG-YOYVwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2316.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Woodland Scenics dry transfer decals and self adhesive logo by K. Klettke</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next step was putting down the stripwood along the sides of the main deck for the handrail stanchions which were to be a made from piano wire supplied. I wanted to have a more detailed ship so in short order 1/96 scale brass stanchions were on there way from Maine curiosity of BlueJacket Shipcrafters. This model company does some amazing work and stocks everything needed to detail out your ship. Once stanchions were received used the appropriate size bit to drill holes on 7/8" intervals. I fashioned a styrene template to help keep consistent spacing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Keep it simple - use a black sharpie to color the handrails keeping the holes clean for the piano wire</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvII1Z74EMM/W7QzptrU-GI/AAAAAAAAFog/zNwllBPtEjQ1AHhvmPA4LJJ1hNTDKJEywCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvII1Z74EMM/W7QzptrU-GI/AAAAAAAAFog/zNwllBPtEjQ1AHhvmPA4LJJ1hNTDKJEywCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2317.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Each side of the main deck has 40 stanchions for a total of 80 on main deck. Additionally threaded through the stanchions are two solid 3' pieces of piano wire for 12' in total on the main deck. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUMqM8jBNRQ/W7Qzp5phcEI/AAAAAAAAFow/GbU_lwzf-xQTtCO-Btf1rLI3_Q7Fap2TwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUMqM8jBNRQ/W7Qzp5phcEI/AAAAAAAAFow/GbU_lwzf-xQTtCO-Btf1rLI3_Q7Fap2TwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2318.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> Port side main deck completed </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWFUzXiDh8g/W7QzqF2wxqI/AAAAAAAAFos/PULcx40SyIkumKlCjHhf4KrNLnXHVOniQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yWFUzXiDh8g/W7QzqF2wxqI/AAAAAAAAFos/PULcx40SyIkumKlCjHhf4KrNLnXHVOniQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2321.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>First of twelve liferings placed on stern cabin wall. These are white metal castings painted with inexpensive white and orange craft paints. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With work completed on the main deck handrails, the next area of attention is the stern. This is where I am currently working. I began with the template supplied in the kit and traced out the shape onto styrene sheet supplied. From there it was a matter of cutting out and trimming to fit. Once in place there are lot of details that will be added. Based on the directions, the stern will be completed before moving to the bow. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-orCnPeEiNuw/W7QzqYPbsuI/AAAAAAAAFoo/7QgDV-RuihwHFgo0OB3O7gQAg0wjxH5gwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-orCnPeEiNuw/W7QzqYPbsuI/AAAAAAAAFoo/7QgDV-RuihwHFgo0OB3O7gQAg0wjxH5gwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2322.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i> Template over top of stern with styrene rough fit. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3G4RZf8WJA/W7QzqqCNCbI/AAAAAAAAFo0/amtPRxPuzjAKR2s0GM7zMIEeIVcFhbfagCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p3G4RZf8WJA/W7QzqqCNCbI/AAAAAAAAFo0/amtPRxPuzjAKR2s0GM7zMIEeIVcFhbfagCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_2323.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Styrene sheet cut and fitted. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This gets us caught up on the work happening on the layout. I expect to have the stern mostly completed by November. This month is travel intensive for work so time may not be as readily available, luckily temperatures are beginning to "cool" off here in Texas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Alot of great things to come this fall with the cement terminal and lake freighter. I didnt even mentioned where the corrugated box plant and asphalt terminal went.... until next update.</span></div>
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<b><br /></b>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-71918986301230736972018-07-30T23:00:00.001-05:002018-07-30T23:00:20.199-05:00Farewell Electro Motive GP30 <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">July 27, 2018 marked the end of service for the EMD GP30 fleet on the MCIS. Over 43 years of service this fleet was the last survivors of Michigan Interstates rocky start.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-BADE-30 at Upper Huron with MCIS3080 and MCIS3085 picked up in consist for new owners via NS at Detroit</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Beginning</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back in 1975 things for American railroads were down right rough. One of Penn Centrals subsidiaries known as the St. Clair Western was spun off in the midst of bankruptcy procedings. As part of the spinoff the new shortline inherited an eclectic mix of Alco and EMD diesels. One specific fleet was six EMD GP30s with "Eastern" heritage. This fleet would soldier on as some of the more modern units until the mid 80s used in every service imaginable. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1980s</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1985 saw the acquisiton of Grand Trunk Westerns "Mackinac Northern" subsidiary which created what we know as the Michigan Interstate Railroad. During the acquisition, EMD GP38 and GP9s were added to the fleet but the GP30s found plenty of good work hauling rock and locals around the MCIS. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1990s</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The winds of change were beginning to blow as the MCIS began to acquire Dash 2 power in the form of EMD SD40-2, EMD GP40-2, and GP38-2s. The six motor fleet however was knocked down to only five units after MCIS 3084 was wrecked beyond repair after a grade crossing collision with farm machinery. The five units soldiered on earning their keep hauling rock and locals. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2010s</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Following a mechanical failure MCIS 3083 was sidelined and scraped at MAC Rail Mount Pleasant. This now left four engines in the EMD GP30 fleet. During this same time the only other surviving motors with 567 prime movers were the EMD SD35s. It was decided to convert two motors using Electro Motives ECO program. Around this time the GP30s were put on reserve LUGO status (Laid Up Good Order) and could be brought from storage if necessary. As time wore on it appeared that only two motors MCIS 3080 and 3085 would survive. The other two, 3081 and 3082 were kept as parts sources to keep the last two healthy. While a potential slug conversion had been discussed the arrival of EMD SD70ACe caused a fleet cascade that ultimately never called these motors out of storage. A year ago MCIS 3080 did come out of storage to handle shop switching at MAC Rail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early July of 2018 MCIS began looking for rail carriers interested in acquisition. July 27th a deal was inked with Delmarva Central to acquire MCIS 3080 / MCIS 3085 in operating status and parts stock from MCIS 3081 / MCIS 3082. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Just for the railfans the motors were brought out to Upper Huron to get a final photo as a pair with their new reporting marks before pickup. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like that an it has come to an end. Thank you EMD GP30 for fourty three years of faithful service to Michigan Interstate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GM </span><br />
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<br />Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-54460478811687349672018-07-22T22:09:00.000-05:002018-07-22T22:09:27.237-05:00July Update<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just like that we are a little over a week from July being over. In my opinion the month of an ops session always seems to go really quick, especially when there is work to do in preparation for the session. Lets take a look at work done on the layout this month along with a quick recap from my Friday operating session. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>UPPER HURON BACKDROPS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In my last post I briefly discussed the work planned to install the backdrop for the Upper Huron Scene which would allow me to begin full foreground scenic work. As tempting as it was, its important to always work from back to front in a scene... trust me I learned the hard way on others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Planning</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Working with Dave at Backdrop Junction I selected his GEN-033H scene which was required for around 16' of wall. In short order it arrived promptly and I wasted no time unrolling and planning work to be done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The backdrops are offered in three different materials, I chose the adhesive vinyl which is pretty awesome sticks really well to my Eucaboard backdrop that is painted with latex paint. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZCvpBtkyf0/W1U5zHpccII/AAAAAAAAFjA/eUvCliBqpIAYNsRN8tu7vYXOWC-_icjKACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZCvpBtkyf0/W1U5zHpccII/AAAAAAAAFjA/eUvCliBqpIAYNsRN8tu7vYXOWC-_icjKACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1551.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pre-Install Prep</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First thing once out of the box was roll out and take a look at the amazing print. The price in my opinion is well reasonable for the good quality pictures, material, and support from Dave to help deliver what I was looking for. The scene came in two rolls which had overlapping scenes on the end to allow for seamless blending. I prefer no sky, so with sharp scissors I cut it out.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Ryv1mnygw/W1U5zFdWV2I/AAAAAAAAFjE/7hpUCoQeS0kjZZpYcqfpbdzI6YiWbMnTACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U-Ryv1mnygw/W1U5zFdWV2I/AAAAAAAAFjE/7hpUCoQeS0kjZZpYcqfpbdzI6YiWbMnTACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1552.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once the sky was cutout, I then used a sharp hobby knife and hold punch to cut out the leftover sky that is close to the trees and buildings. When I used my knife it is important to have a piece of glass behind to keep a hard surface when making the cuts. I did not do any of this on my couch as the photo shows above... Instead I would unroll about 2' of scene at a time and keep the rest rolled up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Install</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The backdrop board is actually made up for 3 section of which the middle is removable to access my "East Staging" if necessary. In doing so I was able to install the first 8' of backdrop starting from the sugar beet plant working west at my workbench. Following the online video - align, peel the backing, and apply. I had to make a few slight adjustments but it applied really easy and as I worked right to left removed the air bubbles.... This is a great backdrop product!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From this photo you can see the backdrop is installed all the way past where the legs of the wye go "off-layout". Part of why I chose this backdrop was having the trees where the track left the scene. This allows me to use scenic trees and materials to help blend with a "tree canopy" type transition. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTICp3OWNn0/W1U50c6TBII/AAAAAAAAFjM/qKJPiw6r7McP5Y6jQ0ZPYZYM3o0pFSXAgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eTICp3OWNn0/W1U50c6TBII/AAAAAAAAFjM/qKJPiw6r7McP5Y6jQ0ZPYZYM3o0pFSXAgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1567.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Town Transition</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since I had leftover material I actually ended up removing some of the Sceniking crop scene I had to the right of the road and replaced with more of the field/tree backdrop from Backdrop Junction. Using Sceniking buildings I had cutout, foam board, and a foam hill I will have a nice blend from woods to the town of Upper Huron. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The end product turned out great, I am looking forward to my next backdrop project which is a secret, but will no doubt help convey a better sense of location. Stay tuned to Fall posts to see whats in store. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>** Note the opinion of this product is my own as I purchased it and did not receive discount or compensation for this blog entry **</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>NEW MOTORS</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Intermountain - GE ET44</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While north of Denver for work I had a few extra hours, so working with my contacts facilitated a meet and greet at Intermountain Railway in Longmont, CO. Needless to say after meeting the great people there, seeing great work, and getting a tour I could not resist buying one of their new GE ET44s decorated for CN. What a great product, and it looks and runs great my Intermountain CN ES44. There are probably plenty of online reviews, but the detail is really well done on this motor along with the lighting. Currently it does not have sound but will be getting a 21 pin Tsunami2 later this fall. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Folks as why not LokSound.... here is my response: with over 95% of my fleet Sountraxx equipped I am happy with their product offering. The product is plenty for me and I know the nuances of programming with JMRI to get the performance, reliability, sound, and consisting I expect. Competition creates innovation so I welcome and look forward to what Soundtraxx, ESU, and others continue to develop. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iIApuHfwqAs/W1U5yyFGW3I/AAAAAAAAFkA/b39e5JQ4Xi8irz2F6pEHp4kG5LyoXrUTQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iIApuHfwqAs/W1U5yyFGW3I/AAAAAAAAFkA/b39e5JQ4Xi8irz2F6pEHp4kG5LyoXrUTQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1511.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Broadway Limited - DCC Trackmobile</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For fathers days - the wife and kids picked me up a DCC equipped trackmobile by Broadway Limited. This is a cool little machine and as a friend of mine who has one noted "Folks either love it or hate it." Yep I concur with that statement. This unit has a home at Michigan Sugar's Upper Huron plant and will become more apart of operating sessions in the future. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31oqX2CPAZ8/W1U50O-aaUI/AAAAAAAAFkM/hiQx5f2n7GYAzXpXO0-MHhTLuRpreta0QCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31oqX2CPAZ8/W1U50O-aaUI/AAAAAAAAFkM/hiQx5f2n7GYAzXpXO0-MHhTLuRpreta0QCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1555.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Great modern products offered in the marketplace that are superb. Well done to both manufacturers.</div>
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<i>**Note opinion on Intermountain product during visit is my own. No compensation was provided for either product** </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>JULY OPS SESSION</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wow I finally had my first ops session for 2018.... Only seven months in. None the less it was a great session with five operators and fourteen scheduled trains. This session was the first time folks got to see the work done on my Cass River and Upper Huron scenes. As a layout owner I enjoy having new things for my operators to experience so its not just the same ole M-BAPH train. One cool comfort item I added was the fold-down cup holders from Blue Point. Added five on the layout in key locations, and it was nice to see them used to make a session a little more relaxed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The whole crew - minus me troubleshooting a minor JMRI Ops issue.. Yes we had 6 guys in a room that is 13x12 essentially. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_fd4cLpk3Eo/W1U52ILmfAI/AAAAAAAAFkM/mqkjmOgAqmAPcQYg8Z3Q7dhZSlEC2puCACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_fd4cLpk3Eo/W1U52ILmfAI/AAAAAAAAFkM/mqkjmOgAqmAPcQYg8Z3Q7dhZSlEC2puCACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1646.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Planning.... Planning.....BSing........</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">R-GEGL-21 switching up cars left by the M-BAPH-20 from day earlier. We didnt have a chance to run this one during the session, so I marked up and worked the customers at Grays Lake and Gerhard today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michigan Sugar Plant at Upper Huron is now in full operation. Took me three years but finally got a good trackplan that gives the essence of big time operations in a selective space. Plant is serviced daily by L-BAUH out of Bay Yard which then spots / pulls in the storage yard. Trackmobile then switches cars into their respective locations for molasses loading, sugar loading, pellet loading, coke unload. We will look at this facility in more depth on another post, but due to space requirements sugar beet loads just stay on the storage track and are unloaded "off-layout" between sessions.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Needing a refresh - updated my consist cards after seeing different folks and their formats. Consists are divided by YARD, LOCAL, or ROAD power pools. Single motors use full four digit address while two or more use a two digit advanced consist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since implementing JMRI Ops earlier this year, this was the first live session where it was used for train movement and switching. I had to say we were about 80% accurate on moves, reporting, and losing cars. Based on folks who use it, they told me - print out the entire online guide, read it once, read it again, and then read it a third time. No doubt complex, but achievable and customizable for your operation no matter how big or small. Between now and my next session will be making tweaks, but I wanted to show some of the paperwork involved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yard inventory - I printed this after the session was over and all trains terminated to reconcile cars. As you can see there were a few messed up or missing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Linehaul Train Manifest - an example of how I print my linehaul train manifests. Still some customizing and verbiage to change, but it gets the job done on a live paper manifest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Local Train Manifest - not wanting to deviate on the formating based on others best practices I have seen, the manifest notes what work is to be done for the R-GEGL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So busy month, hope you enjoyed the update. Alot of great stuff in the works and will continue to share monthly on the happenings around the MCIS St. Clair Sub. Thanks to my operators and friends in other geographic locations who continually help make my model railroading experience one worth sharing with you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stay cool - its 100+ here in Texas </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GM </span></div>
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<br />Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-29094542966488773252018-06-18T23:20:00.000-05:002018-06-18T23:20:06.939-05:00April-May-June Update <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well no doubt I am slightly (3 months) behind on update posts. While life around these parts has been no doubt busy there have been plenty of model railroading, just lacking the time to write about it. This post will however catch you up with all the happenings around the MCIS St. Clair Sub since March. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>MCIS 7052.... Is this a new add to the roster? Read on to find out. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>CASS RIVER SCENE UPDATE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we left off in March I was chin deep (upper level @ 66" off floor) into creating this scene. This specific setup featured a through truss bridge over the Cass River with deciduous vegetation flanking the banks along the right of way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a few more weeks of work the scene is now 95% complete, the last bit to complete is ballasting the bridge approach. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On previous layouts I have used Magic Water to create my water features but after seeing alot of good reviews on the Woodland Scenics Deep Pour Water system, I wanted to give it an honest try. Specifically the Cass River from the google street view is pretty murky so the pre-tinted murky water was on point. I ended up using two kits together to get the depth and coverage required. Using the product was as easy as the instructions provide, there are a good videos on the web showing step by step. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a base layer I did end up using Quikrete general purpose paver mix screened to get the rock I wanted in the middle of the river with a light blend of Missouri river pebbles provided by a good friend to provide alittle more color along the banks and in shallower water. Of course good scenic cement soaking is key in making this all possible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u>Quick Money Saving Tip</u>: If you have a Hobby Lobby close by, you can get alot of model railroading products there, and even better use their online 40% one item coupon to help bring down the cost of items like the Deep Pour Water, tools, or Just Plug lighting. </i></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVZRWqs7l0I/WyhbqyUWjSI/AAAAAAAAFho/YO_T3KFejXA8IcmYJgLuleLEj1fDHiMLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVZRWqs7l0I/WyhbqyUWjSI/AAAAAAAAFho/YO_T3KFejXA8IcmYJgLuleLEj1fDHiMLgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0995.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Paver and rock base in place, ready for scenic cement</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YofPBFX-3kw/WyhbqyYCvmI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/53_E0wNE5849m1bwhoNpb9IxIiwnA3FdwCEwYBhgL/s1600/54411608469__5CF66E72-35BC-47C7-9A99-FA631C9A7F23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YofPBFX-3kw/WyhbqyYCvmI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/53_E0wNE5849m1bwhoNpb9IxIiwnA3FdwCEwYBhgL/s400/54411608469__5CF66E72-35BC-47C7-9A99-FA631C9A7F23.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Water Pour 24 hours later - great results! </i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82pogjjGVjo/WyhbztBbncI/AAAAAAAAFho/BWxiIi9wMWsDgcS9BnyfWU6csj9aMoADACEwYBhgL/s1600/image1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="934" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82pogjjGVjo/WyhbztBbncI/AAAAAAAAFho/BWxiIi9wMWsDgcS9BnyfWU6csj9aMoADACEwYBhgL/s400/image1.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Google Street View - Cass River </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the water hard as a rock, it was time to begin adding in foilage on each side of the river. From the photo above, its pretty thick so I really wanted to layer the trees to draw the operator into the scene. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PkZmDmmm9xI/WyhbxY3mj0I/AAAAAAAAFhY/TcLqmn8zLIorUqekEXREuwzt_6LjcNbbgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PkZmDmmm9xI/WyhbxY3mj0I/AAAAAAAAFhY/TcLqmn8zLIorUqekEXREuwzt_6LjcNbbgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1437.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>West bank of river at UPPE / LACE DTC block boundary</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wCdR9SDpGnY/WyhbxnOeNqI/AAAAAAAAFho/6QXEPZf6V-IaUkLwT7ynZ8i39tNbV5cbgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wCdR9SDpGnY/WyhbxnOeNqI/AAAAAAAAFho/6QXEPZf6V-IaUkLwT7ynZ8i39tNbV5cbgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1438.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Zooming out a little more from the same shot above</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4u5UkLJtFbA/Wyhbxw5EHeI/AAAAAAAAFhg/vjoMGKflyn8E7OsHyPIb1TkSHjFpDCYDQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4u5UkLJtFbA/Wyhbxw5EHeI/AAAAAAAAFhg/vjoMGKflyn8E7OsHyPIb1TkSHjFpDCYDQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1439.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>C</i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>anoers gliding town the Cass towards Caro, Michigan</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o4_1_-AxG14/WyhbyB4dY_I/AAAAAAAAFhk/qOow9kQF7l0j7zwbAOoFG8xlpNu0D6IxQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o4_1_-AxG14/WyhbyB4dY_I/AAAAAAAAFhk/qOow9kQF7l0j7zwbAOoFG8xlpNu0D6IxQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1440.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>What is a Michigan river bank without a weeping willow</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V01bxwP9S8Y/Wyhby4fqt1I/AAAAAAAAFhg/ffMpDkFibB01IMdx-J7OW1S1hlZ3eqdJgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V01bxwP9S8Y/Wyhby4fqt1I/AAAAAAAAFhg/ffMpDkFibB01IMdx-J7OW1S1hlZ3eqdJgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1441.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>View west from DTC block boundary looking at the main (left) and east leg of wye (right) </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Cass River scene just about done, I will be turning my attention towards Upper Huron. This scene encompasses the Michigan Sugar plant, Upper Huron branch wye, and the Town of Upper Huron. From the photos below basic terrain with paint and dirt base layer are in place. The next step before continuing to develop this scene is installation of backdrop. With Sceniking out of business I needed to find another vendor who created scenes to fit Mid-Michigan. After searching I came across Backdrop Junction and in short order working with Dave Burgess a backdrop will be on its way. The mockup looked great, cannot wait to get the finished product installed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We will return to Upper Huron later this summer to see how the scene development process is coming along. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-temaVYXuZ24/Wyhby7tIwRI/AAAAAAAAFhc/1Kye2QUTU4Y7V6Q35l6Bqwd9V1kaMpsBgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-temaVYXuZ24/Wyhby7tIwRI/AAAAAAAAFhc/1Kye2QUTU4Y7V6Q35l6Bqwd9V1kaMpsBgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1442.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Bare dirt.... Did I start modeling west Texas?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>MAC RAIL UPDATE</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If getting work done on Cass River wasn't enough, I decided to jump head first on quite a few backshop projects. Lets take a scroll through each of the projects completed and underway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Contract Projects</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The MAC Rail Sales rep has been busy as April </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">saw the completion of three Soundtraxx Soundcars and a UP EMD SD50 with Tsunami sound and ditchlights under for a contract customer. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-548uugS5YLU/Wyhbsf-uTbI/AAAAAAAAFho/qTG-fkNO0H8su2fdis2NzKiYsBbidouPwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-548uugS5YLU/Wyhbsf-uTbI/AAAAAAAAFho/qTG-fkNO0H8su2fdis2NzKiYsBbidouPwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1058.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Some say the soundcar is too much, done right it does add another level of immersion.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Paint Shop </b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In addition to completing contract work, MAC Rail also opened up a paint shop for Michigan Interstate Railroad. Birthdays are always great when you get a portable spray booth. For the amount and scope of work I do, this is perfect with my Paasche H.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cpqDP6NdUys/Wyhbr6QKeqI/AAAAAAAAFhU/yIC-schLnigIMCo8oDqfAmpJANnMYShugCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cpqDP6NdUys/Wyhbr6QKeqI/AAAAAAAAFhU/yIC-schLnigIMCo8oDqfAmpJANnMYShugCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1057.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michigan Interstate recently purchase two SD70ACe's from CSX. As part of opening the new paint booth, one of the units MCIS 7052 received a fresh paint job by the MAC Rail.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Motor was primed with Tamiya Fine White Primer and painted with Scalecoat II Reefer Yellow and Conrail Blue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Decals:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rail Graphics (MCIS logo, numbers, and lettering)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Microscale (SD70ACe data)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Highball Graphics (American Flag, Operation Lifesaver, Smart Start)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shellscale (Numberboards and rear numbers)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Smokebox Graphics (Side Sill yellow reflective tape)</span></li>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx2C7xiEq34/Wyhbsl3lBAI/AAAAAAAAFho/HaMkRY1WhJEXAzLSyQWklSfpeONvlKy6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx2C7xiEq34/Wyhbsl3lBAI/AAAAAAAAFho/HaMkRY1WhJEXAzLSyQWklSfpeONvlKy6ACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1116.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <i>Reefer yellow ends complete</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pueurFKx3Us/WyhbtCrd2VI/AAAAAAAAFhg/G-uBJv3rnNUelwWn_LUua9xn1wwuk_EmACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pueurFKx3Us/WyhbtCrd2VI/AAAAAAAAFhg/G-uBJv3rnNUelwWn_LUua9xn1wwuk_EmACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1127.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Conrail Blue applied</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RLpkDsNgiU/WyhbtxU7L5I/AAAAAAAAFhU/C-Ey61CU5Usqa3q_vnrAKMqolGRd78WqQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RLpkDsNgiU/WyhbtxU7L5I/AAAAAAAAFhU/C-Ey61CU5Usqa3q_vnrAKMqolGRd78WqQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1302.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Conductors side markings done (7051 as reference)</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-wvKP2NnCU/WyhbuMGRgUI/AAAAAAAAFho/Y5-okEFAgFEb6UHf4_JO2h1cGvQvJFPgwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-wvKP2NnCU/WyhbuMGRgUI/AAAAAAAAFho/Y5-okEFAgFEb6UHf4_JO2h1cGvQvJFPgwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1306.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Motor equipped with Tsunami2, Currentkeeper, and two fuel tank speakers</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MT-BvgruxR0/Wyhbu_07SyI/AAAAAAAAFhc/w9XPjZJkwScYPviV1NaxiCJNAKyXHme-wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MT-BvgruxR0/Wyhbu_07SyI/AAAAAAAAFhc/w9XPjZJkwScYPviV1NaxiCJNAKyXHme-wCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1429.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Completed motor in active service - nice work MAC Rail</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>EMD SD60M / SD70ACe Overhaul Project</b></span></div>
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With MCIS 7052 in service complete with new Tsunami2 sound/control system, MCIS management decided it was time to continue with the momentum and update the other EMD SD70ACe's (7050, 7051, 7053) for fleet commonality and efficency. While under way the two unit fleet of SD60M's which had been on MAC Rail property since last year awaiting updated electronics also received Econami sound/control. Project is on track to bring the three ACe's online by July 01 in time for the late summer demand coming into the 2018 sugar beet campaign. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbYQFeB991M/Wyh913uJSrI/AAAAAAAAFhw/W4r5F-uhItE4AusXfD02eD9dOkFUGI4TwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbYQFeB991M/Wyh913uJSrI/AAAAAAAAFhw/W4r5F-uhItE4AusXfD02eD9dOkFUGI4TwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1436.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Lined up in Building 3A.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>MICHIGAN INTERSTATE FLEET UPDATE</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year marked our 10 year wedding anniversary. Building on a tradition that we started the year we got married, the CFO purchased this fantastic undecorated Proto 2000 Heritage 2-10-2 with QSI sound from the consignment cabinet at DMT. What an amazing present to commemorate and whole lot of fun to operate. Using gold dry transfers, I was able to do a convincing job marking it up for Michigan Interstate #2018. Maybe a call to Matt Welke at Circus City Decals is in order to setup a gold letter package for the excursion fleet. Don't think doing a ton of dry transfer work is for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This engine will be kept along side MCIS #2008 at their Mount Pleasant base and used for passenger excursions throughout the year</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQRAXH5-Uj0/Wyhbv6yPqmI/AAAAAAAAFhg/djhBcy_z_FYEcQY5A9NSfvHrGjL2jzx2wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQRAXH5-Uj0/Wyhbv6yPqmI/AAAAAAAAFhg/djhBcy_z_FYEcQY5A9NSfvHrGjL2jzx2wCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_1434.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lastly MCIS 4051 (EMD SD40-2) has made an appearance on the Bay City Division. Since purchased used from the MR&T, this motor was assigned up on the North Division working between Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, and Detour. Using floquil acrylics and makeup applicators from a Model Railroader Cody Grivno weathering article sometime ago I was able to give it a touch of the elements.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pretty lengthy post, but there you have it three months like that. The summer looks to be pretty busy with the installs, ops session preparation, and of course a few other cool adds to the mix. I plan to get a monthly post out around mid month and expect to stay that course the rest of the year. Thanks for stopping by. </span></div>
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Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-35856188604069005542018-03-19T22:38:00.001-05:002018-03-19T22:42:08.781-05:002018 Railcar Analysis "Big Data"<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Everywhere you turn in the rail industry you hear about big data and how carriers and car owners use it to manage their fleets. Obviously from a model railroad perspective we dont have this same exact data, however we do have other ways to pull "big data" in regards to our own layout rosters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>UNDERSTANDING THE LANDSCAPE</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Case in point comparing the August 2017 roster to the March 2018 data is well astonishing and tells a story in itself that we will discuss in just a minute. Being a modern contemporary model railroad I do my best to recreate what I observe trackside or read about. Some of the practices have to do with railroads actually decreasing fleets or going to more versatile cars that can be a one stop shop like the venerable 60' Plate F boxcar. Nowadays it seems this one car type has become the 50' Plate C, 50' Plate F, 60' Plate F, and even the RBL... So the more of a renaissance fleet the better to flex for customer demands. As fleets age out railroads may go towards more towards consolidating fleet types as scene with the boxcar, completing going away from a fleet, leasing a fleet, or customer moving to privately owned and managed equipment. This applies to beyond railroads and can be inferred with airlines and many other types of managed fleets. Its important to have a cost effective fleet that services the customer properly, otherwise it does no one any good because real railroading is a for profit business. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>MARCH 2018 REVIEW</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are going to look at the changes made to the St. Clair Sub roster over the past seven months first at a high level then going to jump in the car owner / type level to see exactly what transpired. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Immediate take away from the high level totals - total roster grew by 35 cars in three of four categories. How can this be if MCIS sold and acquired covered hoppers assets in this time frame, what else could be driving the large growth. Lets now look into the owner / car type information to tell us more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Foreign cars down account age outs and other carriers moving towards TTX cars</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Private ownership up account TTX picking up the share of age outs with 60' Plate F's</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="color: red;">- MCIS does plan to begin replacing aging 50' Plate C cars with second hand owned 50' and 60' Plate F cars. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">- Early 2019 will see the end of the MCIS All door boxcar fleet in revenue service. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Foreign ownership up due to coke orders originating in CWE pool cars </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - Private ownership up significantly due to securing DTE coal contract (DETX hoppers)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Foreign ownership up a few cars due to new service lanes with CN and CSXT</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Home road is no change as retirement of the 4600 fleet was a wash with new 5188s </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Private ownership up significantly due to Graystone Cement establishing a terminal at Bay City adding their own fleet of WSOX and NRLX marked 3281 cubic cars.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Large increase due to wind unit train operations and further Essar steel business </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Increase due to growing LPG and Dow Chemical business</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The state of the railroad post described going after new business and leverage grow with more unit train operations. With the coal and wind cars we are growing this business which ironically is a balanced energy plan, and the new 5188s in grain service will support cycling more unit trains to export Michigan crops to market. Boxcars and how they are operated will continue evolve as the fleet gets older. Lastly we will continue to see a heavy reliance on private owned cars to fill the bill on specialized loadings like steel, cement, and chemicals. From a modelers perspective between what manufacturers are offering now and the aftermarket products from decal vendors there is no better time to capture the continued evolution of modern railroading. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There you have it - 2018 analysis in a nutshell. Have a great rest of March. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>** This post is completely fictional and does not relate to any real railroad or customer **</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-80055861603930900782018-03-16T22:33:00.001-05:002018-03-16T22:44:37.234-05:00March Update <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well I cant say this for alot of other places in the country, but here in Texas spring is in full bloom. Alot of folks just wrapped up spring break vacation or will taking it here the next few weeks leading into Easter so lets take a look at happenings around the "Clair". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-BACN-12 rolling through East Wye Switch Upper Huron (EWS UPPE)</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">CASS RIVER SCENE</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My February post touched on the ground work that was going into creating the Cass River scene on my upper level. Over the past few week I have been making terrific progress with not only scenery but the actual through truss bridge that spans the river. Lets look closer at the work completed and whats up next to finish the scene. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Dirt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The previous post showed the contour work and base layer of latex paint to kill the blue / pink foam tone. Next comes a layer of true Michigan dirt that I bake and sift to get the right consistency. Having family in Michigan the odd request comes around once a year.... "Yea so can you send me a box of dirt".... They always deliver. I first put down full strength white glue with a paint brush and then using a spoon add the dirt. Giving it 10 to 15 minutes I then come back with a vacuum to remove the excess leaving a nice dirt layer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <i>Getting ready to bake the dirt in a aluminum pan - 350 degrees for 30 minutes</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Dirt layer in place, needing to come back with the vacuum</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Greenage</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After adding the dirt comes a mixture of foams, flocks, and rocks to give the area life. I use some photo for reference but remembering things in nature, just attempt to go with what looks right. Following the tried and true method, wet with isopropyl alcohol and then soak in scenic cement. I have tried a homemade blend of cement, I love Woodland Scenics preblended stuff the best. Can get it a Hobby Lobby with a 40% coupon for around $6. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On the river and banks will be a sand mixture mixed with small river rock to blend in</span></i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. </span> </div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Layering the scenery really does bring this area to life</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Next Steps</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With primary scenery in place and secured I will now be completing the riverbed scene with rocks and sand. Once dry and cured the process to pour Magic Water will take place and finish getting the river complete. I expect to do this at the end of March, so I will be sure to show step by step how that process works and the great results it produces. Prior to pouring the water, the bridge and ballast work will be completed. Wrapping up this area will be alot of Scenic Express Super Trees.... alot..... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>UPPER HURON SCENE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since I have all of the materials out it only makes sense to keep with the momentum and scenic another adjacent scene to the Cass River which is the Upper Huron scene. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">About the scene: Upper Huron is not a fictional tower on the railroad but also a neat operation element as well. Upper Huron or UH as its know is the location of a operation wye that allows trains to traverse from either direction on the St. Clair Sub onto the Port Belle Sub. The Port Belle Sub is represented by staging however this line hosts the switch to enter the Michigan Sugar plant and sees a daily local turn during the session and occasionally a unit rock train from a quarry. The actual scene depicted hosts a grade crossing leading into town modeled by a Sceniking backdrop, the sugar beet plant, and a modern water tower in the middle of the wye. Anyone familiar with Michigan knows about all of the unique water towers, UH will be no different. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Out of flat blue foam, comes terrain shape via pink foam and sculptamold</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp9S0UzW8AU/Wqx-ccyUxYI/AAAAAAAAFco/sCTSAC9N3fAVvgTkc8yzqGFb27QXpgz8ACEwYBhgL/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp9S0UzW8AU/Wqx-ccyUxYI/AAAAAAAAFco/sCTSAC9N3fAVvgTkc8yzqGFb27QXpgz8ACEwYBhgL/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></i></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> View east looking at the sugar beet plant, and east wye switch. You can see where the scenery currently stops. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGjriFU1QbA/Wqx-cRxsiPI/AAAAAAAAFc0/gVtXruUjG5og_kJrpq9p818kzU6iXDB5gCEwYBhgL/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGjriFU1QbA/Wqx-cRxsiPI/AAAAAAAAFc0/gVtXruUjG5og_kJrpq9p818kzU6iXDB5gCEwYBhgL/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Water tower right in the middle of the wye will have character of its own. AEI reader site as well in Upper Huron. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Still alot of work to do in this area but wow just getting some terrain shape, paint, and dirt down really helps make the area more appealing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>RAILCAR FLEET ADDITION - GUNDERSON 5188</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Earlier this month Michigan Interstate received the first of a larger covered hopper being added to the agriculture fleet. The 5188 cubic hopper is slightly larger than our most modern being the Trinity 5161 cubic and the two will be mixed in together to provide our customers newer high capacity cars to get their grains to market. In preparation for this add the fleet did cascade seeing the venerable ACF 4600 cubic cars retire and find new life on the Delmarva Central out east. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Fleet Plan (Effective March 2018)</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4600 cubic - retired from fleet</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4650 cubic - owned by Mich. Ag. Commodities for single or quad-block </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4700 cubic - sugar beet pulp, sugar beet pellet, agricultural single</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4750 cubic - agricultural single, agricultural quad-block</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5161 cubic - agricultural single, quad-block, and unit</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5188 cubic - agricultural unit </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EhydmcpKGFE/Wqx-gFy0EEI/AAAAAAAAFck/iqEXgD3HBOgEj1O4DFtYpCHNhh9e4Ls9ACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EhydmcpKGFE/Wqx-gFy0EEI/AAAAAAAAFck/iqEXgD3HBOgEj1O4DFtYpCHNhh9e4Ls9ACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0745.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>A quad block on their way to their first loading at M.A.C.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Of course in the process of purchasing the cars, MCIS decided to go with the Scaletrains Operator version since lets be honest the details are good enough and I am rough on the equipment. In short order I had the variety pack of FRA 224 reflectors from Smoke Box Graphics and our mechanical forces proceeded to get them compliant.... Not sure how they got from Sahagun, Mexico to Michigan without reflectors.... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Great job by Scaletrains and Smokebox Graphics for great new innovative products, they hit these right on the mark! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Looking pretty sharp - MCIS 5827</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>CASS RIVER BRIDGE </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Following Tom Patterson's step by step from MRH I used gouache paints to weather my through truss bridge. I dont want to take anything away from the article so recommend if you are interested in doing this, take a look at the November 2011 issue and go from there. All of the paints can be purchased at a craft store and one thing I did discuss with Tom is using distilled water over Microsol is just as good and even better. I ended up doing the first overall wash with Microsol, but the random sponge work was done using water. Enjoy the photos.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Base wash of burnt umber-onyx black gouache paint applied</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6oaAshop0KY/Wqx-ic1v_sI/AAAAAAAAFc0/NB9D8vaSVrY-SxYv5mJUNKtsbQbpqiClQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6oaAshop0KY/Wqx-ic1v_sI/AAAAAAAAFc0/NB9D8vaSVrY-SxYv5mJUNKtsbQbpqiClQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0921.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>After a few days - proceeded with the random burnt umber and burnt sienna wash</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPCIX0QkAf8/Wqx-ikhSMII/AAAAAAAAFcw/JE6S5rfXjJURCPYoKC88lmyszfc3s_YLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPCIX0QkAf8/Wqx-ikhSMII/AAAAAAAAFcw/JE6S5rfXjJURCPYoKC88lmyszfc3s_YLgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0922.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Bridge complete and dry - wow the washes really made it pop</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm1lcdmFlCA/Wqx-igHGcqI/AAAAAAAAFcs/y4KPKMq4HN8jrf5EyhrnxPEg3BnNsTC9gCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm1lcdmFlCA/Wqx-igHGcqI/AAAAAAAAFcs/y4KPKMq4HN8jrf5EyhrnxPEg3BnNsTC9gCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0923.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Closeup of the girder and rivet plates - Michigan elements have taken its toll</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simple technique - amazing results.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">OREGON JOINT LINE - MARCH DOUBLEHEADER</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wrapping up this post, we are going to have to get slightly smaller... like n scale small and head on over to Dean Ferris' Oregon Joint Line. Recently I had the opportunity to participate in a double header operations session. For the morning session I was the dispatcher and had a good time pushing around fifteen trains across the railroad in preparation for the afternoon shift. Following a lunch break by the pool I crossed over and went into management as the Assistant Superintendent. This role is to help the layout owner (Superintendent) with getting operators orientated and running. Lets be honest from the management side the railroads operating on the OJL are not making any money with idle trains. If you can tell there was some management adversity built into this session all to have a little fun. Right off the bat I was handed a wire describing the need to run a rotary plow extra account snowfall at Snowline! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I blew up the photo real big so you can see, there is definitely some friction between the unions and management. Believe the operator may have added more letters to my last name then I thought were there. None the less the railroad cannot operate effectively if the summit grade of the line at Snowline is blocked. Myself and engineer M. Thidemann didn't know what we would find until we got up on the summit and <i>"Oh $#!% thats alot of quicker picker upper snow". </i>After a few runs at it we cleared the siding and ran down to Kinzua to turn the extra on the wye and go back at it from the other direction. Upon returning to the summit at Snowline we found the mainline now blocked due to shifted drifts and snow with almost a paper like consistency.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Making a run at the drift in the siding at Snowline.. Took us three runs to clear</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>In the end it was about keeping them moving like we see here with a meet at Fossil. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Having a morning and afternoon session where everyone from both sessions could get together and have lunch was a great idea. So many times having a session limits you to a certain amount of folks not allowing any networking outside of the session, but in this case folks were able to talk shop, eat, and either wrap up or start their operating day on the OJL. Great job to Dean for planning this and having me help with both sessions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That in a nutshell is my March update, still have another two weeks left of the month and plan to keep making good progress on the Cass River and Upper Huron scenes so stayed tuned and safe travels to all out on spring break. </span></div>
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<b><br /></b>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-81748548157007638612018-02-28T13:12:00.002-06:002018-02-28T13:13:34.712-06:00Wordless Wednesday #104<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nkMaPY0XlBs/Wpb_XLIO-QI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/-B_nZ9f2IH02STgCpCGgTJYD_SipmNr4gCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--648477379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nkMaPY0XlBs/Wpb_XLIO-QI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/-B_nZ9f2IH02STgCpCGgTJYD_SipmNr4gCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--648477379.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-30732833683058703612018-02-21T19:55:00.002-06:002018-02-21T19:56:39.050-06:00Wordless Wednesday #103<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vco0PbJKSfk/Wo4jVfqdpXI/AAAAAAAAFZw/yU27PeEB9LUFYL9OiTUbtLICEG2h6YlQACHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-413319293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vco0PbJKSfk/Wo4jVfqdpXI/AAAAAAAAFZw/yU27PeEB9LUFYL9OiTUbtLICEG2h6YlQACHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-413319293.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-8529534556719376132018-02-11T23:45:00.000-06:002018-02-12T00:08:24.794-06:00February Update<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">February is in full gear and Valentines is just around the corner so lets see whats happening on the MCIS St. Clair Sub. Towards the end of 2018 I started getting off track with my monthly update posts and quite frankly there was a fair amount of content to discuss in my last consolidated post. Back on track we are going to discuss my next scenic area project that I have started and recap a great operating session I participated in over the weekend. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>CASS RIVER SCENE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyone that has spent time in Michigan knows there's alot of water whether its lakes, rivers, or creeks. While one of my major scenes on the lower level portrays a crossing of the navigable Saginaw River, I also wanted to model a river or creek on the layout that would be a little more relaxed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Prototype crossing of Cass River at North Hurds Corner Road, Michigan</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Setting The Scene</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Growing up I spent alot of time around the AuSable River in the northern lower peninsula and I wanted to capture that in this scene so early on in the development of the layout the portion that folks ducked under as they entered the room made for the perfect setup. When its all said and done the banks of this scene will be covered in a think canopy of deciduous trees creating a natural scene break between Upper Huron and Grays Lake. The river will portray a slow but steady flow and of course there will be a pair of canoes following the current. Mike McNamara has done a great job with a similar scene on his Woodsville Terminal fremo that really has provided great inspiration. Go back one post and you will see what I mean. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Just Add... Plaster</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Around this part of Michigan where the railroad operates between Upper Huron and Grays Lake would be a crossing of the Cass River. Originally I had wanted to use a fictional name of Quincassee Creek but the more it crossed my mind the more I realized establishing this as the Cass only better sets my location. This part of the layout was just extruded foam so in short order a combination of floral foam, extruded foam, and Woodland Scenics plaster gauze got me to the spot depicted in the photos below. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30UaNDgXTJE/WoEaFVc-_xI/AAAAAAAAFYc/3zNz1J8EZLMUvQrkOObvZvH8veGqM8MdgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30UaNDgXTJE/WoEaFVc-_xI/AAAAAAAAFYc/3zNz1J8EZLMUvQrkOObvZvH8veGqM8MdgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0625.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>View west towards Upper Huron (Pardon the angled photo)</i></span> </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXyM87b3TXc/WoEaFWeN77I/AAAAAAAAFYc/1Myrrg0UHw8uqQEZHGq_rVXpFBp3yGSqgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXyM87b3TXc/WoEaFWeN77I/AAAAAAAAFYc/1Myrrg0UHw8uqQEZHGq_rVXpFBp3yGSqgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0624.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>East Approach going into Grays Lake</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NC5M-Xi2sZI/WoEaJOXHHZI/AAAAAAAAFYo/XAqyhG8BITYlAOhXgxd9IKnDOWswudanwCEwYBhgL/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NC5M-Xi2sZI/WoEaJOXHHZI/AAAAAAAAFYo/XAqyhG8BITYlAOhXgxd9IKnDOWswudanwCEwYBhgL/s400/image1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Once the plaster had dried it was painting time with simple flat latex and craft paints</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhWWqQOjOCA/WoEtdLZN1PI/AAAAAAAAFY8/4PXk4puNuq81CUZ8RHn8UOQDagq4fwfOACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GhWWqQOjOCA/WoEtdLZN1PI/AAAAAAAAFY8/4PXk4puNuq81CUZ8RHn8UOQDagq4fwfOACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_0665.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Basic ground painting complete - as you can see i used the craft paint to color the riverbed lighter to signify a sandy bottom. Additionally while the cedar brown was wet i feathered it up the slopes so its not just one color.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>-</i> Next Steps</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With the basic terrain and color in place I can really get a sense if I need to add any more terrain forming before moving to ground cover. Since I will be using "Magic Water" i do plan on using clear caulk to create a sort of riverbed channel and backfilling slightly with Sculptamold to help channel the resin product. Once the channel is in it will be a matter of adding real dirt, talus, and riverbed sand/rock to continue making progress. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>MIKE ARMSTRONG'S OPS SESSION</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had the opportunity over the weekend to attend a session at a local modelers house here in the DFW Metroplex. Mike models the Rock Island from Kansas City (Armourdale Yard) to St. Paul (Inver Grove Yard) in the late 60s with many great scenes and towns in between including Des Moines, Clear Lake Jct., and Albert Lea to name a few. This layout is a stunning double deck around the room with two double track helix's and a double ended staging yards. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had the opportunity to operate a two manifests with my first train being #68 from KC to St. Paul and my second being a return southbound back to KC. Average trains ran with 3 to 4 locomotives and 30 to 40 cars. My first train was led by a foursome of Rock Island F7A/Bs and my second train was a Candy Red pair of CB&Q U25Cs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pictures really do not do it justice, but they do show the size and scope of the layout, enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Train order in hand, I had sometime before the DS let me out so I roamed the room to checkout everything. Mike uses Digitrax radio throttles, which made my life easy being familiar with the throttles. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>St. Paul (Inver Grove Yard) on top - KC (Armourdale Yard) on bottom</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Se-Lbh4s4WE/WoEaF8epRHI/AAAAAAAAFYs/8ufmebmAafkugO1QRzF1D_ZDEsmSerFmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Se-Lbh4s4WE/WoEaF8epRHI/AAAAAAAAFYs/8ufmebmAafkugO1QRzF1D_ZDEsmSerFmwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0641.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Upper level (L - Mason City / R - Cedar Lake Jct)</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfrHow9S7rQ/WoEaGEb7nXI/AAAAAAAAFYk/jvi5uTJUDms5WJEJueR67bioVgn21F8rACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfrHow9S7rQ/WoEaGEb7nXI/AAAAAAAAFYk/jvi5uTJUDms5WJEJueR67bioVgn21F8rACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0642.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Cedar Lake Jct. where the Rock crossed the Iowa Traction. This has to be one of my favorite scenes. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-THvg3fW5Epk/WoEaGTNeLEI/AAAAAAAAFYs/87OMURwnC7UbXtjQfeoaSd1U-EJBSr2CACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-THvg3fW5Epk/WoEaGTNeLEI/AAAAAAAAFYs/87OMURwnC7UbXtjQfeoaSd1U-EJBSr2CACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0644.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">C.King attempting to look busy in the staging room... yes i said room.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAytPxjejwI/WoEaGwp3FxI/AAAAAAAAFYs/qkkC0zq9DLsBfkGeuFaNgGqDf463jsBKgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAytPxjejwI/WoEaGwp3FxI/AAAAAAAAFYs/qkkC0zq9DLsBfkGeuFaNgGqDf463jsBKgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0645.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Diesel tracks at Inver Grove.... Is that a Missabe SD9... Yes it is! </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fPih34RCcgc/WoEaF6tCGiI/AAAAAAAAFYk/CZESC-cl8XEzw1_Bl5x3GbXwBN91eG0KgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fPih34RCcgc/WoEaF6tCGiI/AAAAAAAAFYk/CZESC-cl8XEzw1_Bl5x3GbXwBN91eG0KgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0640.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Armstrong Yard in KC includes a turntable to turn equipment. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNjmQi7Px80/WoEaH3UNf6I/AAAAAAAAFYs/GP0EqiDhPxgzH4V-jUDXLYmfyHFR9X_zACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNjmQi7Px80/WoEaH3UNf6I/AAAAAAAAFYs/GP0EqiDhPxgzH4V-jUDXLYmfyHFR9X_zACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0649.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Looking inside one of two double track helix's that allowed the operation to "re-stage" the layout. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>A real gaggle at Cedar Lake Jct. with D.Ferris, J. Aust, C. King, and M. Thidemann all looking "busy".</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thanks again to Mike for hosting a great session. The layout is absolutely top notch from the benchwork to the scenic details, truly look forward to returning in the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That wraps up my February update, there is alot to get done before my March post which should come out just in time for school spring break (Mid March). So if you are traveling and need good content to read, there should be a post waiting for you. As an added bonus between this update and March, I do plan to post about the total railcar fleet mix and what it means for the railroad. Giving you guys something to chew on, the layout removed no less than 10 cars in 2017 from active inventory of 204 but now sits in 2018 sits at 237 cars. What is going on.... stay tuned for the answer at the end of February.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">GM </span></div>
Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-13485200583023802742018-02-01T16:09:00.002-06:002018-02-01T16:11:39.879-06:00Wordless Wednesday #102<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9pOjYIlNkzY/WnOQmaAtUJI/AAAAAAAAFXE/o0N3rME-yAMoBi5Oh5SFox21GyAk_COhwCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--1596876255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9pOjYIlNkzY/WnOQmaAtUJI/AAAAAAAAFXE/o0N3rME-yAMoBi5Oh5SFox21GyAk_COhwCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--1596876255.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-89387722155391754902018-01-29T23:08:00.001-06:002018-01-29T23:08:28.152-06:00November 2017 / December 2017 / January 2018 Update<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well what can I say, it has been sometime (November) since my last Update post. I owe it to you the reader to provide more consistent updates, but as model railroading is a hobby I can tell you family, life, and work has been busy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Bay Yard has looked lust like this since my November 2017 ops session ended.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So to catch everyone up, we are going to spend this post catching up on happenings around the MCIS St. Clair Sub for Nov, Dec, and Jan. We will get back on track in two weeks with my February Update post and hope to stay on task through the year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>NOVEMBER 2017 </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the back end of October essentially in November the CFO and I travelled to Denver for a friends wedding. No trip to the Mile High City is complete without a stop by Caboose Hobbies at their new location in Westminster. In my opinion I actually like the new store better and they did not miss a beat on selection when reopening. If you are in Denver, take sometime to check out the shop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yours truly out front @ Caboose</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Amazing selection, great layout, I will return. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I picked up a Bowser 100 ton hopper in DRGW paint, this car will be re lettered and numbered to commemorate our friends getting married. Just a fun way to add story to the car.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <i>Two BNSF Executive SD70mac's assigned on the Longmont Local. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early November saw arrival of Scale Trains equipment that I had preordered some time ago.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Thrall 4427 cubic carbon black hopper (River Counter)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Trinity 31,000 gallon crude tank car (Operator)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to pick up one of each to put through its paces on the operation. An ops session later and they operating superb on the "Clair", maybe there could be more Scaletrains equipment to come? One item I do like is the inexpensive decal package you can purchase to spruce up the crude tank car operator models, in my opinion it is just enough. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mid November I hosted my only ops session for 2017..... dismal but glad I still got one in. My "Regular" crew filled the job board with solid 3.5 hour session moving twelve trains with around 160 car movements. Not bad for a 11x13 double deck layout. Here are photos from the session.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Operating or congregating.... you decide</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-BAPH-16 led by MCIS 4008 (GP40-2) and engineer M.T. taking the main at Gerhard, Michigan heading east.</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-MCBA-15 led by MCIS 6051 (GP60) rolls across the Saginaw River into Bay Yard Restricted Limits.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Yardmaster CMP assisting with DP link up. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-PHBA-16 rounding the curve through Grays Lake, Michigan.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>M-CNBA-15 knocking down the West Siding Switch signals at Upper Huron.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>DECEMBER 2017</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Shopping, Christmas activities, and family time were the priority this month. During this time I did not get a lot of work done on the layouts but made up for it with what Santa and the family got me for Christmas. I am beyond blessed to have family that support me and my hobby.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>New Atlas equipment adding to the layout roster, just a sampling of new additions. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>JANUARY 2018</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A new year and time to refocus on the layout and blog.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Started out the year making some railcar fleet changes. Staying current day has its pros and cons such as acquiring and retiring equipment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- 4600 Cu. covered hopper fleet (Retired)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These cars had come to MCIS through the years post Conrail either as new or second hand acquisition serving our agricultural customers moving various grains. As covered hoppers grew in cubic size and changed, so the usage of the 4600. No longer needed in agricultural service the cars were assigned to rock salt service. When the business changed so again did this fleet. Rock salt service is tough on railcars so now in the 2010s, older worn out cars were scrapped while the younger cars were rebuilt for 50 year service. Growing agricultural demands in unit train service stressed the active fleet of ag. hoppers prompting MCIS to place the 4600 into single carload service for agricultural customers. This service was only temporary as the Equipment team placed an order for forty brand new 5188 Cubic hoppers from Gunderson. These new cars are expected to be in service late Q1 2018 working alongside with 5161 cubic hoppers in unit and large block carload service. Adding a newer car to the fleet causes a cascading effect, in this case moving 4750 cubic cars to single service and displacing the last of the 4600s.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Block of four 4600 cubic cars on their way to DELC loaded with grains for chicken feed.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cars have now found good homes on other freelanced model railroads living on as MCIS equipment in earlier eras.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- 3600 Cubic covered hopper fleet (Retired)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A similar story to the 4600s where these cars had been acquired for rock salt service. In the end these cars were rebuilt at 40 yes but still aged out based on the 50 year rule. The cars have been traded to a local friend who in an early 2000s era layout will use them in rock salt service.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>The last two 3600 cubic hoppers awaiting pickup to begin journey to new owner.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Getting back to modeling skill roots, I found a Bowser 100 ton hopper kit for $5 and thought it would be a good project to sharpen my skills. After a little paint, decals, and weathering we have CWE 125690 which will be in coke service between Follansbee, WV. (Mountain State Carbon) and Upper Huron, MI. (Michigan Sugar).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Final product turned out pretty nice - trucks need to be slightly darker. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wrapping up January's, I found myself back in Denver for daytrip. I had a few extra hours before my evening flight and took advantage of stopping by to see John Parkers BNSF Fall River Division. The layout is amazing and I could spend an entire post discussing it and maybe one day we will do a post covering an end to end tour of a train, but today I am just going to show some great photos of the visit. If you want to check out more of this layout John has a Facebook page (BNSF Fall River Div.) and website open for anyone to view: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.bnsfrr.net/&source=gmail&ust=1517372300090000&usg=AFQjCNG9y9mwDaYDl0Ir8VLZvwf7dqzXpw" href="http://www.bnsfrr.net/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://www.bnsfrr.net/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Boise Cascade lumber mill at Winston</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> The mainline heading west from Overlook passes over itself in a large loop as it descends into Kimber</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>BNSF Staging Yard (Represents Tacoma / Lincoln)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Highway crossing at East Horton adjacent to Kappa Grain</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Hobos..</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Yours truly at Fall River Yard</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Fall River Switchers and the DPU of an empty PSC coal train. I love this yard scene.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Fall River Yard</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy the photos and stayed tuned for February's Update which should be back on track.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GM</span></div>
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Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-46010395609067741342017-11-29T21:35:00.002-06:002017-11-30T19:14:11.071-06:00Wordless Wednesday #101<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ORM5X9dvptw/WiCs4fjwmSI/AAAAAAAAFQk/U5rk-RbgztcWrBLbaYX3mp7rM78CQJv9wCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--385842061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ORM5X9dvptw/WiCs4fjwmSI/AAAAAAAAFQk/U5rk-RbgztcWrBLbaYX3mp7rM78CQJv9wCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--385842061.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-23667472143420200372017-11-15T17:31:00.002-06:002017-11-15T17:32:46.718-06:00Wordless Wednesday #100<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6aGozeFzRHE/WgzOnF42OMI/AAAAAAAAFNs/tTpBLN44YC4t-0AOrRu-hHVS-heqdvj9QCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--1159152434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6aGozeFzRHE/WgzOnF42OMI/AAAAAAAAFNs/tTpBLN44YC4t-0AOrRu-hHVS-heqdvj9QCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--1159152434.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-59146883032770574502017-10-30T22:25:00.000-05:002017-10-30T22:37:17.428-05:00Modeling Glass Cullet Loads<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think at one point we all come across a prototype freight load that begs to be modeled. In particular I can say there are many that lack a model, but a simple one that has been on my planning board for sometime is recycled glass otherwise known as "cullet". My intended goal will be to share the backstory and creation process so you can bring these loads to your layout. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>What is it? </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In simple enough terms it is crushed recycled glass. This material is used in numerous ways such as fiberglass insulation, glass beads (sandblasting), and road materials to name a few. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Potter's Industries north of Brownwood, TX. They make glass ball beads for many different uses. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Photo courtesy of Google Maps. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>How is it transported?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Alot of times glass cullet is crushed and transported locally by truck from the recycling facility to end user, but there are cases where it moves by rail. I do not believe it will be one of those unit train type commodities found often like aggregate or coal, but as a one off load. Every prototype example I have seen or found shows use of dump trucks or open top hoppers, not to say an older covered hopper could be utilized. This is a heavier material as its raw material was sand and soda ash prior to becoming glass, so the car would not be loaded to the brim more around 3/4 full. The cars I have seen are marked EAMX (Everest Railcar Services). Due to the nature of the commodity these are probably in a captive service as cleaning would require something more abrasive then water like sandblasting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Besides seeing in person from an overpass, John Danielson over at rrpicturearchives.net has the best photo of these 3 bay hoppers carrying glass cullet at this link: </span><a href="http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=3702668" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">EAMX 328 - John Danielson Collection </span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>How is is loaded/unloaded?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Loading at the crushing facility is as simple as a front end loader filling its bucket and dumping into the railcar. Unloading is just as easy. In this prototype example a small under track pit allows the transloader to empty from one gate at a time. The pit is shallow but deep enough for a front end loader to get a bucket full, back up, and then load the awaiting truck. The front end loader could also double as a car mover if multiple cars are to be unloaded. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Photo courtesy Google Maps (Satellite View)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <i>Glass cullet rail to truck transload in Brownwood, TX on Texas Rock Crusher Railroad</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvS7yUy4uP0/WffohYQcHPI/AAAAAAAAFM8/Z3FpceJQWHMyOjoRYjZyPpAfL2JKJt4gACLcBGAs/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="650" height="248" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvS7yUy4uP0/WffohYQcHPI/AAAAAAAAFM8/Z3FpceJQWHMyOjoRYjZyPpAfL2JKJt4gACLcBGAs/s400/1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Photo courtesy Google Street View </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>How is it modeled?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The easiest part about glass cullet is its "replication" on a model level. Sometimes making model loads are complex and require kitbashing or even scratchbuilding. In this case it is about simple cosmetics. Follow along as I walk you through creating a glass cullet load. In as little as a weekend you could have yours complete. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 1: Materials</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Removable type open top hopper load (I used Motrak Models #81728)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ** Side note the Motrak Models coal load is fantastic as purchased without changes **</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Rustoleum 2x (Gloss White) or any cheap white spray can </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Dullcote</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Extra fine glitter (I used silver peacock which is blueish-green-silver)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- India Ink / Isopropyl Alcohol mix</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Coal type loads work well with the sharp angles to provide a good texture for the paint / glitter to adhere on. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 2: Base </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Start by giving the drop in loads a <u>generous</u> coat of gloss white (Well ventilated area)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Spray from all four angles to ensure you get a good coat in all the tight spots</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 3: Glitter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Giving the paint just about one minute to setup some then sprinkler your glitter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Do not worry about being modest you want solid coverage </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- At this point let the load completely dry, do not touch or dump off excess glitter</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNL4VCDj4tk/Wffm3VJSRKI/AAAAAAAAFMo/AYr5hJHYQng4lB8nNRlgMiVuNf5OFAHWQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNL4VCDj4tk/Wffm3VJSRKI/AAAAAAAAFMo/AYr5hJHYQng4lB8nNRlgMiVuNf5OFAHWQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_0235.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 4: Glitter to Cullet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Once dry, carefully pickup the load and tip it over to remove excess material.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- You should have good coverage with no load under showing through.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- In a well ventialiated area - spray the load with dull coat and let dry.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- The glitter provides the dull shine that you would find from crushed glass. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAbNffihwGc/Wffmzf2BVsI/AAAAAAAAFMY/Dzvyi_J7rlE7zpAw-Esa2ssxk60-L61GQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAbNffihwGc/Wffmzf2BVsI/AAAAAAAAFMY/Dzvyi_J7rlE7zpAw-Esa2ssxk60-L61GQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_0182.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> This was my test plastic load before making the cullet loads from Motrak load. </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 5: Dull </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Once dullcoat is dry use your fingernail to check around the edges of the load and remove any glitter stuck on the sides. Its important the sides are clear of glitter so it will sit properly in the railcar. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Airbrush load with a india ink / alcohol mix to get the desired dirty effect </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Let dry, then place in railcar.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This technique worked well for plastic and hydrocal casting loads. Materials can be purchased for under $10 at your local craft store. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you enjoyed this fun post, showing you a quick and inexpensive way to add a one of a kind open top load to your layout. Everyone have a safe and happy Halloween.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">GM </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-20611174187100526372017-10-18T22:52:00.002-05:002017-10-18T22:54:52.079-05:00Wordless Wednesday #99<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AoE4IyVZheI/WegiCvg0lzI/AAAAAAAAFLw/oIcUX3_Tmoc1gTUq3VmkKT_Z1Jz473RiQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--421769055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AoE4IyVZheI/WegiCvg0lzI/AAAAAAAAFLw/oIcUX3_Tmoc1gTUq3VmkKT_Z1Jz473RiQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--421769055.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-31204196949473588682017-10-11T07:23:00.000-05:002017-10-11T07:23:54.666-05:00Wordless Wednesday #98<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tthmye1oR6g/Wd4NWVlPTWI/AAAAAAAAFLE/6T_vCQuw_84mh1aXyLQMqYr8ZHCEZ8N8ACHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1687179687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tthmye1oR6g/Wd4NWVlPTWI/AAAAAAAAFLE/6T_vCQuw_84mh1aXyLQMqYr8ZHCEZ8N8ACHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1687179687.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-40764849775126614802017-10-07T14:18:00.001-05:002017-10-07T14:18:25.083-05:00Early October Update<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pumpkins, apple cider, fall colors, and model trains.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well all of those are true in Texas except the fall colors thing like they have up north. But lets get back to model railroading. October is well underway and the Michigan Interstate St. Clair has been a hive of activity as I prepare for a ops session in early November. Nothing like a set deadline to motivate getting those incomplete projects wrapped up. Lets take a look at what has been done since my last update.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GRAYS LAKE LIGHTING</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the town is fictional, my goal is capturing the essence and feel like that of Caro or Vassar. Early on in the planning I had decided to try out new products when constructing. One of the items I really wanted to try was the Woodland Scenics Just Plug lighting. I have seen all sorts of reviews, and yes while I could do this myself my time is limited and I am ok with the cost to help save time. When you have a young family time is very precious for working on your model railroad so W.S. makes it pretty dang easy. Drill a hole, insert a coffee straw, feed the wires through, glue light in place, and plug it in.... There are plenty of great reviews on the web, so I didn't want to take away from those, but instead show the product being used on a live layout. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ctMj4QtSNfM/WdkiBPrEcHI/AAAAAAAAFKY/UC7hYnRyzeUFyHI-0pVd36W4fb7yQnk9wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ctMj4QtSNfM/WdkiBPrEcHI/AAAAAAAAFKY/UC7hYnRyzeUFyHI-0pVd36W4fb7yQnk9wCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0143.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While night ops is still a dream, I found it much easier to plan and install the lighting as I built the city then trying to go back and add it later. Besides the lamp posts are all apart of the downtown detail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Currently Grays Lake hosts 16 lights:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- 3 facility lights at the Propane terminal</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- 12 street lights in downtown</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- 1 auxiliary light near the railroad diamond</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3x6vbfQjB0E/WdkiCeduCHI/AAAAAAAAFKk/wmwFoHhZ3qUrkImFwzEwWuMwC693Zq2UQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3x6vbfQjB0E/WdkiCeduCHI/AAAAAAAAFKk/wmwFoHhZ3qUrkImFwzEwWuMwC693Zq2UQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0146.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When complete each building will have a lit interior and a few other auxiliary light posts near the fertilizer dealer and east of downtown. All in all it will be 25 to 26 lights operating off the Just Plug system. My local hobby lobby had the light film and block kit for $6.50 each so while again I could make my own for $6.50 I am cool buying the kit. For the interiors I will use a combination of the products in the photo and also try out new lightable interiors from City Classics. Stayed tuned for a future winter post on the install process and results. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>GRAYS LAKE INFRASTRUCTURE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along with lighting, I needed to finish around the grade crossing in town and overpass scene break between Grays Lake and Gerhard. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Grays Lake filed a application for a Quiet Zone, and finally the public works contractor got the crossing complete. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-t4MoFqFlY/WdkiAP0bvBI/AAAAAAAAFKI/NBOtomOQ72o8pgKtZb_XXxHWf4hr1Pi1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-t4MoFqFlY/WdkiAP0bvBI/AAAAAAAAFKI/NBOtomOQ72o8pgKtZb_XXxHWf4hr1Pi1wCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0137.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Using styrene I was able to complete a simple but effective quiet zone barrier for Main Street. After cutting the pieces with my NWSL Chopper I used a yellow sharpie to color the posts. These 4' posts were affixed to a curb on 3' spacing. The yellow was a good bright color for the new QZ. </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AjctC8XVlVI/WdkiB7wytcI/AAAAAAAAFKc/okgt79jr48EHmHsaxgFrQRRiWO1C8kiHACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AjctC8XVlVI/WdkiB7wytcI/AAAAAAAAFKc/okgt79jr48EHmHsaxgFrQRRiWO1C8kiHACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0144.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While work was done on getting the QZ barriers, the road contractor completed paving and striping work on Main Street past the fertilizer dealer. MCIS Signal Dept. lastly installed two new grade crossing gates The road needs a "weathering" still but overall great progress getting this area of the layout closer to completion. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DZlbPw0HdI/WdkiCTpO4sI/AAAAAAAAFKg/vucTKv61-pMn0qvhT1xGS81ICFAI3kX2ACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DZlbPw0HdI/WdkiCTpO4sI/AAAAAAAAFKg/vucTKv61-pMn0qvhT1xGS81ICFAI3kX2ACEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0145.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having a smaller layout does not mean one should compromise on things like scene integrity or creating "breathing room" between scenes. One way I did this between the close towns of Grays Lake and Gerhard was by installing a highway overpass. Kits like these are great to "break" the scene. I ended up calling the naming the road "Cedarwood Road" in reference to a U2 song I heard and thought <i>"Wow what a good name for that overpass."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The rest of the month will see the highway overpass get its deck complete along with filling in scenery on the cork areas in and around the town bringing everything together. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>GRAYS LAKE BUSINESS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two new business were added downtown off of 1st and Railroad Streets. The unnamed store on the edge of the layout was an interesting build since I ended up cutting 2/3 of the building away. This should make for a interesting interior detail. Across the street is "G's Pizzeria in a former fruit warehouse. Anyone familiar with areas north of Saginaw on the Sunrise side of the state have probably heard of or eaten at a G's. Well what better way to bring modern day authenticity then having one of the layout. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The back of the restaurant is along the right of way offering a great place to grab a slice of pie and watch trains roll on by. A parking lot will be developed along side of the restaurant and beings it at one time had a railroad spur that went alongside the former dock on the back, maybe I can find a way to bury tracks in the weeds or one the other side of the parking lot to provide historic value. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A very detailed but brief early month update, check back later this month for more updates and a preview of new business that will be running the St. Clair Subdivision rails. </span></div>
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<b><br /></b>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-8311819195775904062017-09-14T22:52:00.002-05:002017-09-14T22:52:34.420-05:00Mid September Update (Railcar Fleet - Part 1)<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just like that summer is a few days away from being a memory. This time of year I know alot of you begin ramping up work on your model railroads. Around here work on the physical layout infrastructure was non-existent, however there are plenty of other items to address on a operating layout to keep it in good working order. This month I am going to take a different approach then my normal all things update and instead focus on the railcar fleet. Follow along as we look at part 1 of Fleet Management, Fleet Statistics, and Fleet Projects.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FLEET MANAGEMENT </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Operating a roster 226 cars take work.... literally. I don't know how the guys with 800+ cars do it. The past few months have seen quite a few cars added to the roster with a few leaving, it is important to maintain a good record of that change. Cars that were added needed inspections and a waybill holder with car information. Similarly cars that went to new homes whether trade or sold needed to be removed and their waybill card discarded.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5-EVpW5pOE/Wbs8WGOwe7I/AAAAAAAAFJM/1_IGqeYV3bMX4ekJ_cKLTiS8Cl1sbOcdgCEwYBhgL/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1205" data-original-width="1600" height="301" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5-EVpW5pOE/Wbs8WGOwe7I/AAAAAAAAFJM/1_IGqeYV3bMX4ekJ_cKLTiS8Cl1sbOcdgCEwYBhgL/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Identification stickers printed using excel database of cars added. Each car notes reporting marks, car number, car type, and pool (if applicable). The stickers are affixed to the plastic card shown. These cards then hold the blocking waybill for each car while in operation. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FLEET STATISTICS </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not to bore anyone with numbers, but using all of the data from the master database i collected for the active fleet, I was able to look at different charts to tell a story about the mix on the layout. Lets take a look at a few graphs.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cxgbDpIzLVg/Wbs8a1dduJI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/h2gxVzC2GuEr38Pnk1qFhtYFIL1uhfwPACEwYBhgL/s1600/image001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="481" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cxgbDpIzLVg/Wbs8a1dduJI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/h2gxVzC2GuEr38Pnk1qFhtYFIL1uhfwPACEwYBhgL/s400/image001.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First and foremost our data is based on 226 active cars as of September 1st, 2017. We can see the mix of Home Road, Foreign Road, and Private car is roughly split in thirds. Of note the private fleet is the largest which makes sense with growing private owned cars on the rail network in 2017. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyUuI-29ugQ/Wbs8cIk1uJI/AAAAAAAAFJM/ZUs-7_UPWqcM2SRPv-gSBSCqNYWIdxKjACEwYBhgL/s1600/image004.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyUuI-29ugQ/Wbs8cIk1uJI/AAAAAAAAFJM/ZUs-7_UPWqcM2SRPv-gSBSCqNYWIdxKjACEwYBhgL/s400/image004.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">The car type analysis should not be a surprise to anyone since the main commodities hauled are agricultural products (covered hoppers), aggregate/sugar beets (open hoppers), and paper/forest products (boxcars). The "Other" category includes centerbeams, airslides, and reefer type cars that are more "boutique" in the work they perform. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Going forward what type of trends can we expect to see... </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Increase in private ownership cars. Very much a modern era trend. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Decrease in foreign and home road boxcars as older Per Diem era cars age out.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FLEET PROJECTS </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We all that storage spot where good projects go to be put on hold.... Yep I have one of those as well. One Saturday at the end of August I took fifteen minutes to walk through each car and what was needed to restore it to service. All of these cars operationally could operate with metal wheels and good couplers, however their "story" needed to be changed before they were to operate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Foreign Road Freelance Boxcars:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First project was patching three 50' high cube boxcars for freelance model railroads of good friends that will roam the Michigan Interstate. </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">NEKR (Northeast Kingdom - Mike McNamara)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">NNE (Northern New England - Mike Thidemann)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">WN (Washington Northern - Kevin Klettke)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patching was done using brown or green sharpie paint pens. Easy to use and fast drying highly recommend. Reporting marks were done using Microscale Railroad Gothic / Compressed Gothic sets of different sizes. Reflective decals are by Microscale, and the grafitti decals are a mixture of Microscale and Blair Line. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Utility Pole Bulkhead Flats</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These two MDC kits had been painted by Fred Fogelsinger about two years ago. I had just discovered them one evening going through boxes of train stuff in the garage. Using the CN bulkhead decal set from Highball Graphics I was able to put together all the data required with MCTR reporting marks. The last thing left to add are the PC&F log bunks from Details West and utility pole load from JWD. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. 20,000 Gallon Tank Cars</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At a train show a few years ago I picked up each of these Athearn R-T-R 20,000 gallon tank cars in the BNSF scheme for $10 each. No box and a little use.... works for me. Well not needing them in diesel fuel service I proceeded to change up the cars to fit geographical needs. Using a modellers license I used the Highball Graphics CGTX 23,000 gallon tank car set. Instead of using black paint or decal solution to remove the print, I instead used a hobby knife with a flat blade and pulled across the logo and marks giving appearance like it had been "sanded off" by the shop shown in photo below. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Plastic Hoppers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The same train show where i found the tankcars also produced two Walthers plastic pellet cars. However the reporting marks on the cars were duplicate to what was already on the layout. In the interim this was not an issue since I would only keep one car on the layout at a time. But needing more pellet cars provided an opportunity to update the reporting marks. I selected Highball Graphics CCBX (Union Carbide) decal set. While I did follow some reference photos of cars close to the ones represented by the decals, some modelers license was used. Graffiti decals are from Microscale and Blair Line. Seeing plenty of examples from the prototype photos, I decided to give drybrushing a try for weathering. Using Andrea Color acrylic paints of various brown and gray, I was able to give the cars some needed character. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you can see quite a few fun projects adding nine more cars to the fleet in part 1. The graphs help paint an overall picture that not only provides a story of your operations, but can also help establish discipline when it comes to selling or acquiring equipment. If you have 90 boxcars for one industry but you are short 10 covered hoppers for three industries, then maybe your focus should not be on that $10 Athearn R-T-R FMC boxcar at the next train show but instead a Athearn R-T-R Pullman Standard 4750 covered hopper. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Towards the end of September we will reflect and bid farewell to the Alco RS27, Alco C424, EMD GP15, and EMD CF7 fleets. Not wanting to leave out whats on the workbench right now, we will wrap up Part 2 of Fleet Management, Statistics, and Projects.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks for stopping by.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GM </span></div>
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<br />Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-636390251013672582017-09-14T15:19:00.002-05:002017-09-14T15:20:29.786-05:00Wordless Wednesday #97<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pZRyA7_nbLM/WbrkjEBarrI/AAAAAAAAFHk/mKV6OWhdOAsXoHe3k9n1yGaEbgVdvw6kQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-2010897934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pZRyA7_nbLM/WbrkjEBarrI/AAAAAAAAFHk/mKV6OWhdOAsXoHe3k9n1yGaEbgVdvw6kQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-2010897934.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-63368587943438684492017-09-06T20:20:00.000-05:002017-09-06T20:21:36.036-05:00Wordless Wednesday #96<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8hM2G2olx1g/WbCfHs4XRvI/AAAAAAAAFHM/XD-I0niWZHAbaEKfx3SLbVSjVPx-Sy5YwCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1048538092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8hM2G2olx1g/WbCfHs4XRvI/AAAAAAAAFHM/XD-I0niWZHAbaEKfx3SLbVSjVPx-Sy5YwCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1048538092.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-57038823505618863442017-08-30T15:10:00.002-05:002017-08-30T15:12:51.185-05:00Wordless Wednesday #95<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TJQugJWja70/WaccQWjAqSI/AAAAAAAAFGk/19zGjKqQCAIZDngOL_Ic3yo81SKuuSUzQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--245396051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TJQugJWja70/WaccQWjAqSI/AAAAAAAAFGk/19zGjKqQCAIZDngOL_Ic3yo81SKuuSUzQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image--245396051.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-26481695109745667032017-08-16T20:32:00.002-05:002017-08-16T20:33:38.189-05:00Wordless Wednesday #94<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ZCrrlWRymI/WZTycJWERKI/AAAAAAAAFF8/swk8SrLpIKEOlDZPb2cq0AMtzzUmaSa-gCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1014189996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ZCrrlWRymI/WZTycJWERKI/AAAAAAAAFF8/swk8SrLpIKEOlDZPb2cq0AMtzzUmaSa-gCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1014189996.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-66717152988270964852017-07-31T22:45:00.000-05:002017-07-31T22:46:27.281-05:00Late July / Early August Update<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The inevitable dog days of summer, 95 degrees by 11:00am here in Texas. I think for alot of modelers this time of the year finds little time for model railroading as they are tending to outdoor matters such as house chores, recreation, vacations, or that summer modeling slump. Luckily through channels like Facebook I can see plenty of model railroading on going through topics like Front End Friday and Run By Sunday. In this post we will not talk about social media, but we will look at a tasks accomplished in July. Find a comfortable spot and a cold drink as we walk through my update that I barely squeaked in for July, but on the flip side got a good start for August. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You could say the power is out of proportion..... Both look sharp in new paint! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>MCIS BUSINESS TRAIN</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Recently released from Fogelsinger Rail are Michigan Interstate's two business coaches "Lake Erie" / "Lake Huron" and a stunning EMD F7A / B set. I have to say the equipment turned out really nice and the time spent to develop a scheme for the F7s that was classy while consistent with the rest of the MCIS diesel fleet looks great. Believe I went through around 8 versions with alot of friend feedback before arriving on the final scheme. The equipment is expected to be released from contract shop in early August arriving via Lake State Railway transfer. From there the equipment will head to Mt. Pleasant MAC Shop for delivery inspection and placement into service. Company officials expect the equipment to be ready for fall festivities including Halloween, Thanksgiving, and ultimately Christmas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>WEATHERING 101</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can honestly say that I have attempted my first time at weathering railcars with a variety of mediums and overall impressed with the finished products. If the first five cars turned out this well, then there is only room to improve my skills and produce even more realistic effects. Up until now I have contracted out my weathering of locomotives and cars, but even with me getting into the art I still expect to continue to job out 3 cars for every one I complete because of one specific thing; "Uniqueness". Just like every car is unique, every person who has weathered for me also has a technique different then the next person. This in my opinion provides for a nice mix of cars that bring alot of character to the railroad. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For my instruction I used the multiple instructional sources "Done In A Day" by Pelle Soeborg and various "How To" articles from Model Railroader. Future work I will try some of the techniques showcased by Matt Snell and others from MR, RMC, and MRH. With the web content out there, there is no shortage of great articles describing tips and tricks. My suggestion and like others have said, use a few test cars that you dont mind screwing up on. In my case I have 3 Accurail 4600 hoppers that will never see service again so they made for good test beds to perfect my technique. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Materials used: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Various Modelmaster & Polly Scale Acrylic paints </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Vallejo matte (for rust adherence)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Pastels (earth tones and grays) and Bragdon dark rust</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Testors dullcote</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Microscale FRA224 yellow reflective striping / graffiti decals</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- India ink / black craft paint (Asphalt spill on tank car)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- 70% isopropyl alcohol</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All of the cars got a fade, some more than others and from there using photos from the book and online just enjoyed the art. One really neat effect is the rooftop rusting that has a neat texture. Enjoy photos of the completed work, mind you that I did this in my garage with the door open in the heat of a Texas afternoon. Not only did I weather, but lost some water weight as well..... model railroading can be a healthy habit!! </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> NS boxcar was my first car to try out the airbrush wash "fade"</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYOszz7VbwU/WX_mt9MpPMI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/NSX6bf-_G4ogcL9CwsqzrbguF2QiTHotgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYOszz7VbwU/WX_mt9MpPMI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/NSX6bf-_G4ogcL9CwsqzrbguF2QiTHotgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9838.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Patch out and roof rust. On the SRV boxcar I actually used a Q tip with window cleaner to remove the light fade over where the reflective tape is located. This gives the effect that someone cleaned the paint before applying the reflector.. I have seen this on many cars. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Canadian Wheat Board car that has seen better days.... not many years left.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Overall view of the five car batch completed last Friday</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Worn out railcar with a fresh tag..... Must have been transiting the DVE out east.</span> </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Load of asphalt enroute to Interstate Asphalt's Bay City Terminal.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The fade and rust effects turned out really nice. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>WIND ENERGY RAILCARS</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Earlier this summer I had shown you a few 89' flats wind wind blades that I had done for a friend as a model. Well beings I model modern day I felt there was a great opportunity to bring wind energy business to the MCIS. Since those comments I worked out the plan to build a wind blade unit train. For the layout the train will consist of 10 (68' flatcars). These shorter flatcars are a good selective compression with the shorter 102' blades, additionally for you guys with smaller layouts and tighter curves the shorter railcar truck centers and overall bolster to bolster length of the blade from root to tip fixture allow for better curve negotiating. With 10 cars that will allow for 5 blades to be hauled, beyond the 10 cars I may add hub / nacelle cars or an additional 2 blade cars for a total of 12. But for now we are focused on 10 cars for the late fall operating session. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In modeling the 68' there were things that I wanted to capture. The first being a smooth steel deck, a side mounted hand brake, and a hodge podge fleet of cars with various pasts. Knowing how it can be to find a out of stock Atlas Trainman product I was lucky to come across a stock of seven 68' flats at Spring Creek Model Trains in Deshler, NE. Yep bought them all with 2 being DODX marks and 5 being ARR marks. I also recently purchased a TTJX on ebay and have a supplier for the last two cars. So hodge podge fleet.... check. The next item was the smooth steel deck and I had two different ways to complete this. One i sand the deck smooth or two I purchase one of the laser cut steel deck overlays on the market. I decided with the sanding option so lets take a look at how I got the smooth steel look and how the blades are setup on the car. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>First and foremost I build the root and tip fixtures in the kit to allow me to mock up the blade on the railcars. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Once I was satisfied that the mockup would work, I then used my Dremel Oscillating sander to make quick work of the planked deck. Foreground before, background after a few passes. Ultimately took a couple minutes per car to get the smooth deck. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>With the deck sanded smooth it ended up being the molded gray color of the car. So after a quick coat of dullcote, I proceeded to weather up the deck to show some use but more or less cars had deck re-conditioned for wind service. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Satisfied with the base level of weather another coat of dullcote to seal the chalks. Additionally I used a black sharpie to mark out the reporting marks which will be replaced with "LHRX" marks in the near future using Railroad Gothic Alphabet sets. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Finished product with root and tip fixture mounted to the railcars. The blade is removable, however once in service it will be temporarily secured in the root fixture with a small amount of white glue. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With cars prepped and fixtured I spent a few evenings testing the blades clearance around the layout. If you decide to have this type of load on your layout, it will a trial and error testing to see what works best. To allow moving of fixtures if necessary I mount them to railcar using Elmers extreme glue stick. It holds well but can be removed with a knife if necessary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Testing the blade just east of Bay Yard. For operation on the MCIS all blades will be configured root-tip-root-tip. So while the train is traversing forward the large square fixture will lead with end of blade following. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Checking scale clearances, in this case in the curve we have 6' between the blade tip and signal mast</span>. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Look forward to seeing the unit wind train on the layout later this fall. Not only will it be something to see but for the operators, it will come with a HIWI bulletin to govern movement when meeting trains or passing lineside restrictions that are "close clearance".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>BAY INDUSTRIAL SPUR CHANGES</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last item to note for this update are some changes made to better accomodate industries on the Bay Industrial Spur. Interstate Asphalt and Fort Mackinac Corrugated changes locations. This allows me to model half of asphalt storage tanks (with contents inside) and also creates a partial view block for the area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Interstate Asphalt will have three spots and Fort Mackinac will have four. While the industries have not been fully developed, the changes made will be tested out by the operator of the Y-BA04 "Bay Industrial Job" during my late fall session. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>View east down Bay Industrial Spur (Interstate Asphalt on right, Fort Mackinac Corrugated to the left)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i> Another view looking northwest toward Graystone Cement. Interstate Asphalt in the foreground. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Checking reach in clearances to access switches for the three industries. I may end up cutting the tanks down some for better reach. However this job is handled by two operators so one would be on the inside of the layout left of the tanks and other operator right of the tanks. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think you can agree, the month produced great results in a host of areas. Another great way to help combat that summer modeling slump is having a host of different projects. In this case no scenery work at Grays Lake was complete, but progress was made in other areas. I hope to get back on scenery work at Grays Lake this month. Check back later in August to see what becomes of that task. Thanks for taking the time out of your day to read my update. I hope everyone has a safe rest of summer.</span></div>
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<br />Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-4808111551484662372017-07-13T15:45:00.002-05:002017-07-13T15:46:30.722-05:00Wordless Wednesday #93... a day late<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_aGe5ivOrVA/WWfcIzjYiwI/AAAAAAAAFCU/auMRbGjmJzoCYbCjEMSRB5jCdQB9zFy4QCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-82898296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_aGe5ivOrVA/WWfcIzjYiwI/AAAAAAAAFCU/auMRbGjmJzoCYbCjEMSRB5jCdQB9zFy4QCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-82898296.jpg"></a></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1169260194019435740.post-17734009333834258512017-06-29T22:21:00.000-05:002017-06-29T22:25:35.377-05:00Late June Update<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just like that the month of June is coming to a close. While I did not get any work done on the Grays Lake scene this month, I have plenty to show for other projects that did get completed this month along with new equipment additions to the St. Clair Sub so lets take a look.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">MAC Rail (Car Shop)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had a friend sometime ago that he would like a model of wind blades on railcars similar to what you can find operating on the prototype. Luckily American Model Builders created a fantastic kit that is easy to build and in a few days you create a very nice model of a wind blade railcar setup. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While in California I ran across the blades in a 3 pack at Railmaster Hobbies, so sure enough I picked them up for his display.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The blades represent a 102' model. Current prototype wind blades are 150' to 200' in length, but in our selectively compressed hobby these are the perfect size with plenty in/out swing. As for the rail car a combination of Athearn Genesis and BLMA 89' flats fit the bill. The blades and root end assembly are resin castings while the tip sling fixture is laser cut wood with a literally plastic swing. In the near future the Michigan Interstate will be moving wind blades, however to make "More with Less" I will be using the Atlas Trainman 68' flat which will compress the empty car space and operate better on my 28 degree curves. More to come on wind energy service on the MCIS in another post. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>MAC RAIL (Locomotive Shop)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There was no shortage of work being done in June, it just was not on the layout. Over the month MAC Rail released four locomotives that had undergone various sorts of work. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Overview of the "High Bay" with BN2627, MCIS4005, and a bowl of cake getting worked on....</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">MCIS 4005 showing off its new Econami decoder and Railmaster DS1240-Box speaker. In this install i actually cut the top off the rear weight and then point the speaker downward over the trucks. The rear LED mounts right on top of the speaker. The front weight over the trucks is added back once the decoder is wired up.</span> </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uVOvSbUAOyo/WVW1UrVYEcI/AAAAAAAAFBA/VecBXe19-jALBpKNSjFa0YnlzDFJsX5pgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uVOvSbUAOyo/WVW1UrVYEcI/AAAAAAAAFBA/VecBXe19-jALBpKNSjFa0YnlzDFJsX5pgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_9799.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>MCIS 4005 (GP40-2)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Internal: Soundtraxx Econami & Currentkeeper / Railmaster DS1240-Box Speaker / 3mm LED</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>External: Replaced broken cab sunshade and added BLMA air conditioners</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-loAFFJOSNuE/WVW1Ubk1IlI/AAAAAAAAFA8/BW3Havg2bnwgIGZTiIJHZ7jTVemH791ygCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-loAFFJOSNuE/WVW1Ubk1IlI/AAAAAAAAFA8/BW3Havg2bnwgIGZTiIJHZ7jTVemH791ygCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_9798.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>MCIS 4571 (SD40M-2)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Internal: SBS4DCC Athearn LEDs / Truck & Gear Rebuild</i></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">External: Replaced handrails / Added all weather windows and non-op ditch lights</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Following many online tutorials for Athearn engines I took apart each truck, filed off rough flash on each gear, cleaned with warm soapy water, re-assembled, lubricated with Labelle, and tested. The grinding sound did reduce tremendously and will get better the more running I can get on the engine. While apart I also checked gauge of the wheels and hard wired the track pickup wires to the brass tab on the truck tower. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This work improved the reliability</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to the point where it can be run well with other engines that are sound equipped.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8JrEzMUj3ZY/WVW6uATzjRI/AAAAAAAAFBU/a2FPZR69KQI7MKA_9PAaqAiuWbz0vuPnACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8JrEzMUj3ZY/WVW6uATzjRI/AAAAAAAAFBU/a2FPZR69KQI7MKA_9PAaqAiuWbz0vuPnACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_9737.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>All Athearns are the same.... </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GoK_w6Jcj5k/WVR2cEGucjI/AAAAAAAAFAU/VF9g4paVlv0zYEf2d0vLfCJ4IpPMMCbigCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GoK_w6Jcj5k/WVR2cEGucjI/AAAAAAAAFAU/VF9g4paVlv0zYEf2d0vLfCJ4IpPMMCbigCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9711.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>BNSF 3136 (GP50 for customer)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Internal: </i></span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Soundtraxx Econami & Currentkeeper / Railmaster DS1425-8 Speaker / SBS4DCC Athearn LEDs </i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">External: Replaced ditch light bulbs with SBS4DCC 0402 LED</i></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0moECpk3NwY/WVR2bHWAVHI/AAAAAAAAFAU/-_uv8eHmFYAmyuZHo4Xq2oCWU9RyCsjswCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0moECpk3NwY/WVR2bHWAVHI/AAAAAAAAFAU/-_uv8eHmFYAmyuZHo4Xq2oCWU9RyCsjswCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9709.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>BN 2627 (GP40 for customer)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Internal: </i></span><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Soundtraxx Econami & Currentkeeper / Railmaster DS1240-Box Speaker / 3mm LED</i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">External: Added Monster LEDs Stratrolite Beacon</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That wraps up MAC Rail work for June, the rest of the summer looks to be steady with probably one sound install upgrade per month supplemented with existing fleet lighting upgrades on Athearn models. I strongly recommend Streamlined Backshops Athearn LED upgrade kits as it really makes putting LEDs in a snap. Basically each individual light has its own surface mount LED so it is very bright, and they can be wired into series so connecting them to whatever decoder is simple. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Layout Car Fleet Additions</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In my last update post I had touched on a new Athearn 60' TOBX purchased. Wanted to provide a up close look at the car in its pre-weathered from factory look and also showcase a few other purchases and Freelance Model Railroad trades that added to the overall layout roster. </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--rbkDug8TDg/WVW1SmIDquI/AAAAAAAAFBE/-QWeah_CDxgU0vXCUdDuLGbKo2XV47eWQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--rbkDug8TDg/WVW1SmIDquI/AAAAAAAAFBE/-QWeah_CDxgU0vXCUdDuLGbKo2XV47eWQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9793.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>TOBX 889088 (60' Plate F Double Door Boxcar) </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As part of the TTX national pool, we will see this car in overhead and online service carrying building products.While already weathered I do expect to do a little more to bring out its character. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsaQ6I7kIWI/WVW1SlvcngI/AAAAAAAAFBE/VihAq1xejGUxeiQsaCqhJbmErzcYPlPRQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsaQ6I7kIWI/WVW1SlvcngI/AAAAAAAAFBE/VihAq1xejGUxeiQsaCqhJbmErzcYPlPRQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9794.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>DVE 6005 (50' Plate F Single Door Boxcar)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>This car belongs to Jamie Isett's Delaware Valley Eastern. It seems Fort Mackinac Paper has secured business on the east coast so this boxcar will be busy hauling paper rolls from the mill at Cheboygan, MI. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5bi7nyGvPIE/WVW1TkD5-OI/AAAAAAAAFBE/FpKl3iWtMdEkeQZtAkCgrnDY9Vh7q4EawCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5bi7nyGvPIE/WVW1TkD5-OI/AAAAAAAAFBE/FpKl3iWtMdEkeQZtAkCgrnDY9Vh7q4EawCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9795.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>DELC 90105 (5161 Cubic Foot Covered Hopper)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Owned by Matt Curll's Delmarva Central, this car loads out corn on the Michigan Interstate at either Cooperative Elevator or Michigan Agricultural Commodities for use as chicken feed out east. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YTUt9erZlo/WVW1TxPhphI/AAAAAAAAFBM/DYkZ1AqWWRMFwaY2Fhrf-0nP6DTvdfhbQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YTUt9erZlo/WVW1TxPhphI/AAAAAAAAFBM/DYkZ1AqWWRMFwaY2Fhrf-0nP6DTvdfhbQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9796.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>QTTX131003 and QTTX131004 (66' Heavy Duty FM Flat)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Cars were recently came purchased and will find themselves hauling HIWIs of either the wind turbine or power gen. nature. As Michigan Interstate gets into hauling wind energy these will critical cars for the heavier wind turbine nacelles. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HR6DaYmgImo/WVW1T_M-a0I/AAAAAAAAFBE/CnqZHpKUYaM74qU91pWvII66ayFWhsdtQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HR6DaYmgImo/WVW1T_M-a0I/AAAAAAAAFBE/CnqZHpKUYaM74qU91pWvII66ayFWhsdtQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_9797.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>DODX41089 and DODX41089</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>While marked up for DOD use, these cars will be re-purposed into wind energy service flats hauling the American Model Builders 102' wind blade. Using two 68' versus 89' flat will greatly reduce the overall size of the train and for my layout size better "Selectively Compress" the intended wind blade on flatcar. During this conversion an additional 8 flats will be purchased to allow for a train to carry 5 blades. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That about sums it up for my end of June post. In just a few days from now we will be in July getting ready to celebrate the Fourth. With MAC Rail work tapering off some I do plan to get back on the Grays Lake scene. Until my next update, have a safe Holiday. </span></div>
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Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251662365745458984noreply@blogger.com0