Commission: Bachmann 64xx to 74xx conversion…

This Bachmann Pannier tank arrived as a 64xx in BR early unlined black as they intended and leaves as a weathered 74xx…

Note the revised tank side grab and footplate handrail.

The modifications include removing the auto gear, one of the batteries under the cab and the bevelled edge to the front and back of the cab roof. Once complete I took the opportunity to correct the side tank handrail (it should be plain with it knobs) and used he original knobs for a grab above the footplate step. This was all touched up in black, as a pre-cursor to the weathering.

Note, the auto gear box on the rear buffer beam was subsequently removed after photos were taken.

The renumbering was completed with Custom Nameplate Studio etched brass plates. The weathering started with a wash of Humbrol 33 and 98 on the footplate and tank tops, which was also applied on the sides and wiped off vertically. The chassis had a thicker dose and picking out the brake shoes and ash pan with a grey brown. This base was added to with an airbrush of Humbrol 133, 245 and 27004 in the usual manner which has the effect of softening the edges of the finish.

Note, as above, the auto gear junction box on the front buffer beam was removed after photos taken.

The final steps are scuffing some foot prints on the top of the tank and dry brushing gun metal on the edge of the cab steps, buffers and footplate edges. 

Just visible, the battery boxes under the cab have been reduced from two to one.

The result seems to capture the workman like nature of the prototype, and I’ve enjoyed working on it. If you’d like me to do a similar conversion that get in touch for a personal proposal. Until next time, more soon…

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