New Brunswick Southern GP38-3 in H0…

Yesterday I described the prototype as a rebuilt GP35, and as such, that is how you might consider this project. The following photos show a completed model before final weathering…

This overhead view gives those who are familiar with the GP35 vs the later GP38/40 models the most obvious of changes in the makeover. Gone is the single turbo exhaust ahead of the dynamic brake (the centre fan and tapered side louvred), instead replaced by a pair either side of the dynamic brake fan. The filter air box on the roof is a later GP40 style (the GP35 was flat in this area), and with the reduction in horsepower the requirement for cooling is reduced so the trio of radiator fans (at the rear of the long hood) has been reduced to just the two 48” diameter outer fans. Of course I’ve also added lift rings, a horn and antenna.

Distilling the character of a prototype into what needs to be modelled and what can he omitted is definitely an art form and one that I love to practice, I hope I’ve got things about right here. Taking a look you’ll see a ode mounted bell, a small Canadian style plough but the SP low headlight and other lights plated and smoothed. The bulge on the lower side of the numberboard box above the cab seemed worth replicating. MU socket and drop step are representational as is the box on the rear conductors side of the cab. Out back gone are the class lights and number boards, but the two distinctive circular plates are etched parts of my own design. On the underframe rather than go to town I’ve just added brake lines on the trucks, a speedo under the engineers cab as well as a fuel gauge on the tank on the same side, both small touches from photos. A winterisation window is from the BCR Shops Alco etch, and a sun deflector awaits fitting on the conductors side.

Non functional ditch lights and various pipework as well as cut levers complete the front and rear pilots, and the model now sits with its custom faded green paint (mixed from Humbrol enamels) and High Ball graphics markings (with some Smokebox Graphics warning labels) waiting for some weathering to breathe life into the finish. I’ve really enjoyed my latest build of a rebuild and it leaves me wondering what to visit next? Until next time though, more soon…