I’m getting closer to the finish line on the project of working up three diesel switchers.

Bicentennial time

The SW-8 in the end came out really nicely I think. Thanking my brother for some helpful feedback as I was working on the paint scheme and exploring options.

The decals are all Microscale, from alphabets, a flag set, silver stripes from an ATSF zebra stripe set, and small lettering from an Orient tank car lettering that is included in a set that letters several different tank cars. The silver truck sideframes are a nice touch — and take your eyes away from the fuel tank, which is black and not remotely correct for a SW-8. But it’s just not noticeable on the layout and I’ll leave that element be.

It runs great in tandem with my original SW-8.

Sneak peek time

I’m working on decals for the SW-1 and NW-2. I wanted to do something related to the scheme on my boxcab, this would become the official prewar switcher scheme. I now have it worked out (I think), and I plan to also update the boxcab slightly to match these switchers as well.

This side of the SW-1 was the critical side, as (although you can’t see it in the photo) the “R” has to fit inside a space in the ladder on the side of the engine (not a problem on the NW-2, as the hood is longer).

When this series returns I’ll have the lettering done on the switchers and then I have to tackle the project of reviving the drives of both engines.