One model that I feel can be built into a fine model is the Hawk outside braced boxcar. I’ve had two of these prewar models working their way slowly through the shop, and I took two different approaches to adding ends details.

To this yellow car first, for this one I opted to use ends salvaged from a type of AHM HO stock car (more on that model here). In the case of this Hawk car, it was completely missing one end. What I did was cut the AHM ends down to fit in the ends of the Hawk model, something I have done before in rebuilding one of their 50′ steel boxcar models. The ladders are original Eastern parts, and the doors are modified Eastern reproductions (as the model was also missing one door).

The other model was more complete, but the flat ends are an eyesore on an otherwise nice model. For this one I opted to use what are probably Nason ends. Below one is seen cut from the sheet, and the other is as it came from the maker.

This type of part, it has to be used someday! Below is one of the ends on the model. Hopefully I can get the ladders and other details on and get these to the paint shop soon.