Large Scale Central

USN 65-Tonner Build

Modeling Motive Power
#1

I’m embarking on my first modification and repaint project. I’m mostly interested in the West in the 50s, but I have a soft spot for an engine that lives here in Kittery, ME at the shipyard. It’s a GE 65 tonner that is in regular service on the island. I’ve acquired a USAT 44 tonner, which is pretty similar, and plan to modify a few things to make it more similar to the 65T.

I have new gears from Jerry Yeramian for the trucks, and have moved on to stripping the paint.

The 44T has ladders at each corner, and the 65T has steps. This engine also has plows. Those are the biggest mods that I’ll need to tackle.

#2

Must be nice to be able to just print up what you need!

#3

Sean McGillicuddy said:

Must be nice to be able to just print up what you need!

First you have to be a good 3D modeler with a computer able to run a CAD program! (https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-wink.gif)(Eric is!)

#4

I do believe Eric has that under control!

#5

(https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-cool.gif)

#6

Eric love it. I keep hoping to model the following which is new switcher for Earle Naval Weapons Depot:

http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=3695472

#7

Boy, the Navy doesn’t do ANY weathering on their motive power! (https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-innocent.gif)

#8

This little guy spends very little time outdoors. The shipyard railroad is really cool. It’s 100% street running. They have two GE switchers that live indoors when not in use.

#9

The naval shipyard here in Bremerton, WA has a similar 65 tonner. Its always hidden as well, but they have a newer one (rebuilt?) that sits outside the shop. For some odd reason, the Navy isn’t so keen on letting railfans on base to take photos.

#10

The arrangement of the doors and louvers on the hoods are very different between the 44 and 65 tonners. I drew up the 65T hood in Fusion360, and hope to get two printed in resin to replace the stock hoods. This will be easier than trying to change all the details. This is based on the photo in my original post.

Here’s the stock hood for comparison. The louver is on the nose, where the 65T just has a door there and louvers on the side.

#11

Eric, I can help with 3D printing those hoods.

Please visit my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ADKrail

Thanks

Chris

#12

Joe Zullo said:

Boy, the Navy doesn’t do ANY weathering on their motive power! (https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-innocent.gif)

(https://largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-cool.gif)It is a handsome little thing, isn’t it.
A model would definitely be attractive on pretty much any layout one might appear on.

Looking forward to following this project.

#13

As always, Eric, great work! Look forward to following your progress.