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This model is a detailed MDC HOn3 outside frame loco.
I modified it to look like the C-25 class D&RGW loco # 375. My 'sister'
loco, numbered 378, is a what-if the Rio Grande purchased more locos of
this class. The basic assembly of the loco followed the MDC instructions
but I installed the Patco lowering kit which replaced the cylinder saddle
and mounting area below the rear of the cab. This kit also has a deck plate
which spans between the loco and tender. I replaced the stock gears with
the NWSL replacement kit. This runs fine, however I plan to put a can motor
in because the open frame motor is too noisy and I also plan to instal
a sound speaker in the tender. |
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Modifications to the boiler include removing the handrail
mounting holes, filling them in and drilling new ones. I used a number
of the kit details including the headlight, stack, air tanks and number
plate. Brass details include the air pump, sander valves, cooling coils,
brake cylinders, bell, generator, check valves, whistle and tool box. Wire
detailing was used for sand lines, handrails, deck braces , electrical
conduits, steam and air lines, etc. The headlight has an MVP lens included.
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Frame modifications include making a new bottom cover
plate with a slider attached, a K-28 lead truck, working front couplers
and coupler lift bars. The cab had electrical lines placed on the roof,
glass for windows and an engineer and firemen. The tender had air and electrical
lines installed, a back-up light, ladder, an air tank, drain valve, coal
load and re-railers. |
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Painting the loco followed Jim Vails' Gazette article
and formulas. The loco shows a moderate amount of grime with a bit of rust
and mud on the lower sides. The sides of the cab and tender are a little
darker and glossier than the horizontal surfaces which accumulate grime
more. Soot is more prevalent in the areas behind the stack. |
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This loco has been running for over a decade and I have
had NO problems with it. It is a smooth runner and operates very well.
I plan to build two other outside frame MDC locos, one similar to this
(C-25) and another which looks more like a C-21 class loco. |
