EWS CLASS 66 PROGRESS

Yes, they do keep turning up everywhere...
I've been working on a few more Class 66s for my modern depot layout, this time in EWS colours. Adding a few details here and there (especially within the spacious cab interiors) and weathering has been the order of the day, making the most of the Bachmann OO gauge model. I've done two in the red/gold so far, with another to go, plus a DBS red Class 59 to spruce up.

I've also got a very impressive set of etched rear view mirrors to fit to one of the 66s, from PH Designs. I scratch-built a set for the 66 pictured above from brass wire and strip, but these lack the characteristic square section of the real things. The PH Designs bits are much more authentic.

No Class 66 is complete without a suitably uniformed driver and a few bits of detritus scattered around the cab. Here, a couple of newspapers and a high viz vest have been added. I covered how to make these details in my first book on detailing diesel & electric subjects.

The rest of the enhancement work has centred around adding a suitably weathered finish. As most of the muck tends to remain on the roofs and underframe, the sides were kept fairly clean. Another touch was to mimic the work of the shed cleaner and his long mop which usually streaks some of the grime down from the roof, at the limit of his reach. A toothbrush manipulates the wet weathering enamels, aided with a trace of white spirit on the bristles.

The finished effect.

A similar method was used on the lower edges of the sides, with a cotton swab rubbing away much of the dirty enamels that had been sprayed by airbrush.

Tensocrom acrylic paints are great for special effects such as oil and fuel leaks. Here, diesel fuel is being added to the tank filler, with some vertical streaks down the sides.

Once dry, the semi-opaque Tensocrom looks very effective, with just a hint of the red diesel staining visible.

Tamiya Weathering Master packs really come into their own on surfaces such as this. Just a hint of gunmetal and rust bring out the excellent detail in the etched roof vents.