I'm interested in modelling a CofG rebuilt coach type that was used on the SEMINOLE and FLAMINGO, painted in IC colors. The cars 527 and 528 are typical of the one I'd like to build. Can anyone suggest a core kit that would serve as a good basis for starting. I do have an Eastern Car Works modernized PRR P70 coach kit (with large sealed windows) that might work reasonably well(?). My kitbashing skill level is moderate, and I have no fear of putty. Thanks for all suggestions!

-- Bob Venditti (bobvend@bellsouth.net), June 15, 2004

Answers

>I find the windows too wide and not tall enough for one thing.

Something you are going to encounter in trying to build one of the modernized cars is that the thermapaine windows that were installed into the window sections were sized to be direct replacement for most of the windows there, so that support posts would not have to be moved and/or removed.

What you probably need to look for is windows from a diner or lounge car, preferably from an ACF prototype, since these windows should be short enough to fit the opening while tall enough to fill the space. In fact, you might be able to use window sections from one or more car sides offered by Brass Car Sides to fit into the window section, but like I say, you likely will need to find a car that represents an ACF prototype... Pullman - Standard's windows were several inches shorter.

Hope that this helps.

-- Jerry M. LaBoda (laboda@bellsouth.net), June 21, 2004.

Walthers will be releasing a heavy weight coach later this year which will be similar to the Branchline coach, but will have paired windows like the CofGa coaches. This may be a canidate for "modernization" by adding a rounded roof, wide windows and skirts. In any event, it should be a good representation of a CofGa coach. Something that has not been available.

-- Ed Mims (wemims@comcast.net), June 20, 2004.

Upon closer inspection, the Eastern Car Works kit is not as good a choice as I had thought for this type heavyweight. I find the windows too wide and not tall enough for one thing. The Athern idea sounds like it would produce good results. I had the extreme pleasure of riding in ex-CofG rebuilt HW Car 528 on the TVRM as part of last month's KUDZU RAILS excursions. In fact, all four coaches in the consist were former CofG. I also visited sister car 527, sadly rusting away in Duluth GA. FYI- car 527 confirms the use of CofG- style gold lettering on at least some IC-painted coaches, whereas most wore IC-style lettering. Personnally I prefer the CofG style, and the currently-available lettering decals will work for this purpose. My eventual goal is to put together a 60's-era SEMINOLE. Walthers' IC 6-6-4 sleeper looks quite good. Thanks for all replies.

-- Bob Venditti (bobvend@bellsouth.net), June 19, 2004.

I have built one "modernized heavyweight" with good results. I used two Athearn "round-roof heavyweights" and cut them appropriately so as to make one car 79 feet long. Next, I cut out the entire "window strip". I made two new window strips from .035" sheet plastic in which I had already laid out the window pattern. I cut out the windows and cemented the entire strip in place. I built my car with the "full" under-skirting also. I used a thick plastic strip. Cemented them to the bottom edge of the car (each side). Then I filed the curved shape to form the appearance, scribed lines to similate access panels. This is a fast and dirty write-up. If you'd like a photo of the car, let me know. I'm also building another coach in this manner and have got a "modernized combine" under way using an Eastern Car Works carbody and a round-roof from another kit.

-- Don Worthy (worthy57@alltel.net), June 16, 2004.

I'm also interested in a model of the modernized CofGa coaches and think that until something better comes along you have the right idea using the Eastern Car Works modernized P70. You might consider a roof from The Bethlehem Car Works, PO Box 325, Telford, PA 18969, Tel: 215/721-3006 Part #102. This wood roof has the correct contour for heavy weight rebuilds but will need to be cut to the correct length and have the ends shaped.

-- Ed Mims (wemims@comcast.net), June 16, 2004.