The
Problem: after painting the silver and during unmasking
a fragile solder joint gave out and the steam whistle on
this US Hobbies O scale D&RGW L-131 came loose.
All
parts to be rejoined are carefully cleaned and prepared
for new solder with soft brass wire brushes. Depending
on the location masking surfaces that need not be marred
is advisable.
To prevent the hot
soldering iron causing damage to painted
surfaces the entire area around the fix is
covered with wet toilet paper – toilet paper is
best because it is easily formed around the
small
brass components. These heat sinks also
keep parts not intended to be unsoldered from
coming loose.
Here the loose
whistle is safely reattached to fittings on the smoke box. The
casting is held by needle nose pliers because the location of this
work is not conducive to clamping.
Once the casting is
securely attached the joints need to be carefully cleaned for a neat
appearance. These are the tools used in this case. There is no
replacing a number 11 Exacto blade but the scraping tool was
indispensable where a pushing action was required. The fiberglass
erase helped clean and smooth the tool marks.
After painting the
parts it is impossible to tell the whistle ever fell off. This
beautiful L-131 was finished by 7th Street Shops for Jack
Hutchens. The job includes several brass repairs and painting and
lettering the superstructure. Jack will assemble D&RGW 3607 (with
colored button Herald) himself so we hope to feature more of this
marvelous locomotive in the near future once it is running.
Overland Sn3 C&S
4 wheel caboose 1008
Prior to painting a few
additional details supplied by the importer are added to this Sn3
caboose. Coupler lift bars simply clamp into place but the
airhose/gladhand require soldering. In most cases this service is
automatic. There may be a small fee for attaching an optional pilot
or other details that require more attention.
Couplers are added upon a
clients request. Here, Sn3 Modeler Pat Turner's C&S Caboose is being
checked for coupler height.
Pat Turner's OMI Sn3 C&S
cabooses 1005 &1008 were recently serviced at 7th Street Shops.
Aside from a minor repair 1005 was simply weathered. However 1008
received our full treatment. The model was completed with detail
parts provided by the builder plus a few of our own. Chain, inside
window braces, Kadee couplers a two
color paint scheme weathering and complete glazing were all
added to the model. A custom paint and detailing job runs around
200.00 dollars. Additionally, DCC controlled marker lamps could be
added as well as completed interior. We are experts on C&S
equipment.
The four models
featured here are Sn3 Overland C&S Locomotives that
belong to Bob Axsom. Bob commissioned 7th Street
Shops to paint his locomotives.
