Layout Status:
active
Track Type:
S
Track Manufacturer:
Custom Trax
Rail Size:
code 100
Notes:
Craig has two layouts. This one is the standard-gauge one (the other is Sn3).
Videos:
A pair of D&RGW SD40-2T "tunnel motors" passing a train led by D&RGW SD50, which was painted in the post-merger Southern Pacific "Speed" lettering.
A Division Point brass caboose brings up the rear of a D&RGW coal train.
UP SD70ACe Heritage unit #1989 crosses Price River at Castle Gate just west of Helper, Utah. A ubiquitous Rio Grande Tunnel Motor (SD40-2T) trails. The 1989 is a reworked Lionel SD70ACe. The pilot was removed from the trucks and screwed into the frame. The pilot openings were filled in and Kadee couplers installed. A light weathering was applied. The SD40-2T is an Overland Models brass import with added details and custom paint, and DCC sound and lights installed. The SP box car is an S Scale America model of an FMC double-door box car, which has also been lightly weathered. Track is code 100 by Custom Trax. The track ballast was special ordered (N-scale Woodland Scenics cinders) for the track to reflect the Rio Grande's use of slag and cinders from the Geneva Steel mill at Provo, Utah. The signals were produced by South Bend Signal Company (out of business) and are used to indicate turnout position only. The bridges are Central Valley HO-scale plate girders, and the bridge abutments are Chooch (also HO-scale). Scenery is hardshell gypsolite with dental plaster rock castings. The stream is EnviroTex Lite® shaded blue/green with Alclad paint. The photo was taken using a Samsung cellphone. Craig's photo appeared on the inside cover of the September 2022 issue of Railroad Model Craftsman in the NASG promotional ad campaign.