Large Scale Central

Passenger/Loco Cab illumination

Problem Solving
#1

For those obsessed, as I am, with night time operations featuring full blast plant-reflecting illumination, here’s one solution to maximizing the power of light: Manco brand silver tape or Venture Tape in silver.
Manco is used by heater and air conditioner installers – get it at Home Depot, etc.
Venture tape from stain glass shops.
Both are 2" wide and work well as reflective surfaces in the roofs of passenger cars cabooses and loco interiors.
One obvious caution is to avoid open wiring contact as the tape is conductive.

Wendell

#2

I emboss it for metal rivet/line effects , handy stuff!

#3

Jerry-
Would you offer further info. on where and how you apply the embossed tape?

#4

Wendell,
It is adhesive backed. You want to peel the liner off the back, not peel the metal off the liner, that makes wrinkles. THen I just stick it on(clean the area with alcohol first). You do all the embossing first, before peeling off the liner. I use a pounce wheel to put in the rivet patterns, you can get them at art stores or sign supply stores. I also use an old leather tool, it has different spacings. I think Marc is having my little article on using it in the next GR issue.

#5

Thanks Wendell. I’m like you when it comes to night time lighting and this is a great kink!

#6

Jerry-
Sharp!
You are so right about the “peeling” process. Initially, what’s the difference if you peel the liner off or peel the shiny material from the liner is challenging. It does make a difference. I welcome the physics on this one.

#7

Wendell, the Nashua brand tape is quite a bit better. You can find it at Ace or True Value stores. It is even made in the USA! You do want to peel the backing from the foil, not the other way around, that way you are not bending the foil much. Be sure to explore texturing the foil with pounce wheels for rivet patterns and a ball point pen to scribe in lines. I sometimes work from both sides.

#8

Jerry,

Show him your snow plow.

#9

It’s on my website, scroll down to the projects button, then pick the right one, have to scroll some more though! Video there also.

#10

Jerry-
What a web site! You offer much for those of us considering trestles, water effects, roadbed changes, etc.
Many thanks! I recommend others searching the site not only for the projects but the visual ideas from your video and stills.
Wendell