Bruce, it would be great to see a photo of you in it!
And here’s a shirt that might go with it…
John, you’re doing a great job. Just yesterday I was thinking I should try to beat you to the punch, but other priorities kicked in (had to fix the dang mailbox), and sure enough you posted. Some day I’ll get quicker (not…!).
That’s a gorgeous photo. I’ll guess it was seriously photoshopped, but it still looks great. I’d love to see that treatment on a steamer. This is the closest I’ve found, but your livery is cooler.
Carry on, Sir, see you in a week or two. 
Tag, you’re it.
Looks better than the TurboLiners of the '70’s 
OOOOOOOOOOOoooo! We have switched to an Easter type theme. Time to highball the Easter Bunny Limited!
Have fun, David Meashey
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If anyone has reservations about where AI might be taking us, allow me to offer a cautionary tale. While using ChatGPT to search for realistic large-scale figure ideas, I received quite the surprise. I expected was maybe a few pre-painted 1:22.5 figures in engineer outfits. What I got instead was something entirely different.
ChatGPT confidently suggested the figure I was searching for was “a seasoned model railroader with a passion for Amtrak, clad in denim overalls, a faded Amtrak cap, and carrying a miniature coffee thermos and weathered track plans.”
Curious to how it came up with that, I asked ChatGPT to show me what this figure would look like—and then things truly went off the rails.
The back of the box claims that placing the action figure next to an LGB Jumbo controller will automatically trigger your layout to operate with prototypical Amtrak behavior—which, of course, means any scheduled passenger train will immediately be routed into a siding to let freights and other operators blast through unimpeded.
Naturally, I then asked ChatGPT whether this action figure had any authentic voice commands or action poses.
Apparently, yes. It reportedly went through 10,000 posts. According to chatGPT, the packaging states pulling the string on the figure’s back unleashes a series of well known catchphrases:
- Back in the Hood!
- Faster than an Acela?
- It’s time to crush that box.
- I don’t know the guy, personally…
- Old hat! Come to Pencil-Tucky!
- Your MIK build is almost as slow as your trains.
- I modeled it after the 1:1… except it’s better now.
- It’s not a rivet counter problem if you can’t find the rivets.
Under a flap at the bottom of the box, there’s reportedly a secret compartment containing:
- A can labeled “Rooster’s Emergency Rivet Counter Repellent”
- A ruler that says “Not True to Scale”
- And a small, chicken-like figurine with serious attitude
ChatGPT suggested few of these action figures remain in their original boxes, as customers were encouraged to perform a box-crushing ceremony immediately upon purchase. (Rooster himself insists: “Roosters don’t do shelf queens!”)
I was actually debating whether to ask ChatGPT for more information, like the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price… or if this figure is a stand-alone product—or part of a wider line of companions. I haven’t gone that far but I fear there may something like: "Rooster & Friends™"
Good thing Rooster doesn’t know me personally….
That’s scary-astounding, Bill!! You’re saying that the AI generated all that artwork on its own? It’s so… detailed in every way, and very 3D.
Can’t help but ask, was there an option to receive an STL file for 3D printing?
Totally mindblowing!
Cliff,
I wouldn’t be surprised if it couldn’t supply an STL. ChatGPT is correcting computer code. I suspect it might be able to do it with the right prompts.
Even so, I found this quite fun and highly recommend having a go as it an easy process with ChatGPT, and quite free. I even did a Barbie version of HERSELF.
Here is how I did it.
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Ask ChatGPT to tell you about someone or supply the details yourself. I asked ChatGPT to limit its search to the LSC. It pulled up a lot of interesting factoids, that I didn’t know…
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For example, it provided a lot of Rooster related trivia e.g.
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He is one of the most prolific posters with >10,000 posts.
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It talked about his relationship with others in the group. “Shut up, Rooster.” A phrase affectionately used by fellow forum members, highlighting his endearing ability to stir the pot. As one member noted: “This is probably the only place in the world where ‘shut up rooster’ is truly a term of endearment…”— Greg Elmassian
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Rooster’s contributions to the forum go beyond humor; he’s a skilled modeler with a particular passion for Amtrak, often sharing detailed builds and insights. His presence has become an integral part of the community’s fabric, making him a cherished member among fellow enthusiasts.
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Then you need to make a prompt like Create a picture of a lifelike 3D action figure toy, as if it were displayed in a transparent plastic packaging, blister packaging model and embellish on that.
In this case I asked ChatGPT to help me make a prompt which was so much better. You can have it made GI Joe, Thunderbirds, Barbie style; Add a Mattel or LGB logo or bar code; Add catch phrases and accessories etc.
Then I added a photo that Rooster supplied himself from a LSC web page.
…and clicked ‘go’.
Here’s a quick YouTube tutorial.
I’m sure there must be a Cliff in the Rooster & Friends collection. I guess it will come down to who makes it first. You can only hope Rooster doesn’t learn how to do this first!
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OK, I had to try…
On Large Scale Central (LSC), “Kid-zilla” is the affectionate nickname for a young model railroader who actively participates in various projects alongside their family, particularly with Eric Mueller. The nickname playfully reflects the child’s energetic involvement in the hobby.
Notable Contributions
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2025 Mik’s Build Challenge: Kid-zilla co-built a “Rocket Carrier” with “Y.D.” for the annual Mik Challenge, a community event honoring the late modeler Allan Bupp (aka Mik). Their entry was well-received, showcasing creativity and attention to detail.
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Triple O Railroad Projects: Kid-zilla has been instrumental in projects on the Triple O (Oahu Sugar Co.) layout. For instance, they crafted a special load for a flatcar as part of the 2023 objectives. Their hands-on involvement extends to electronics work, such as assisting in retrofitting the locomotive “Diesel Dan” with a new control board.
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Community Engagement: Kid-zilla’s enthusiasm is a recurring theme in LSC discussions. They were mentioned in a whimsical holiday-themed post, highlighting their excitement for upcoming projects. Their work has also been praised in threads like the “Huge Kidzilla Rabbit Hole,” where community members commend their attention to detail.
Kid-zilla’s active participation exemplifies the inclusive and family-friendly spirit of the LSC community, inspiring both peers and seasoned modelers alike.
I am a lot less exciting, it would seem…
Eric Mueller is a prominent member of the Large Scale Central (LSC) model railroading community, known for his family-oriented approach to the hobby. Residing in Hawaii, he, along with his family, has developed the Oberammergau, Ogden & Olomana Railroad (Triple O), a garden railway inspired by the Oahu Railway & Land Co.
Beyond his modeling endeavors, Eric has contributed articles to publications like Trains Magazine, sharing insights into garden railroading in Hawaii. His work emphasizes the integration of family participation in model railroading, fostering a collaborative and educational environment.
Eric’s active participation in LSC discussions and projects highlights his commitment to the model railroading community, making him a respected figure among enthusiasts.
It takes some time to do the pictures, and, as I chatted about to get information on our railroad, it wasn’t always accurate. Still, it was a fun way to spend time when a sinus infection has been making it hard to do real work!
Eric
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Love it Eric!
Cliff… here is what chatGPT came up with…
Great! Now I’ll convert this into an STL file for 3D printing. Hang tight while I process that.
The STL file is ready! You can download it here:
Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or a more detailed sculpt.
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Bill you have hit the jackpot of confusion there. You have managed to produce a hybrid Rooster/Fred figure through your AI playing.
I am turning you into the moderator for prodcing this monstrosity
But nice work. 
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Ho - Lee - Cluck… My flabber is gasted, Bill!
Thanks for the tips!
Amazing work, Eric!! I love the KZ action figure!!
And yours as well, I finally know what you look like!
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Truly amazing, I’m glad it could do that. I mean, it might come up with any kind of figure for 3d printing…?
I agree with Hollywood though, shades of Fr Fred. But Rooster always did call him “Pappy”, right Dave? Or was that Rick Golding? Either way, the plot thickens…
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A.I . is great however do they work and can you build them ?
Bill needs to spend a bit more time on research before busting his nut as some is fake news.
Besides it’s old hat anyway as it’s been attempted before in the past.
Before A.I …back in the day in the hood ( Bill, you forgot day goes with hood)
Rooster, I guess I am going to have to find out, eh? I’ll ask ChatGPT to add an Old Hat too.
Hollywood I thought one of the pictures of Fr. Fred, would be a good choice, and now that you mention it, there is something suspiciously familiar about the STL. 
But wait there’s more! I then asked ChatGPT to make a caricature of the Action Figure and it replied…
Perfect! I’ll now convert this caricature-style figure into an STL file. Give me a moment.
The STL file for the caricature figure is ready! You can download it here:
Let me know if you want to add more details or accessories to the model.
I’m thinking now do I need a bobble-head rooster or a Funko Pop or Pop Vinly! version.
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