This web page is intended to provide simple techniques to improve your diesel models with minimal effort and maximum results.
The model we will work with is the Atlas GP38. Overall this is a very nice model with many of the details we need included in the box. Most of the techniques can be accomplished with basic tools and some practice. The suggestions can be applied to most diesels and are not limited to this exact model. If you are looking to build an exact model you can look for photos on the internet that interest you. Then, pick the techniques and details that fit the model you want to build. You don't have to follow every step for every model you own. Do what you want and have fun.Improving Factory Paint:
Doing basic touch up of factory paint is not always necessary. However, on the Chessie model because the blue and yellow contrast quite a bit missing paint really sticks out. I used a nice small 18/0 paintbrush to touch up the lettering. The size of paint brush is not as important as the tip. A fine pointed tip is the key to touching up factory paint.
As you can see the 'C' in Chessie looks a lot better once the blue paint has been touched up.
Front Pilot Improvements:
Adding the distinctive rock pilot gives the locomotive a more accurate look for a Chessie unit. A Kadee #58 prototype size coupler helps make the front of the locomotive look more realistic and remain a useful road switcher.
Painting the hoses flat black and the ends dirty silver help to make them stand out. Adding the yellow, red and green color at the valve top can be compared to prototype photos for accuracy. Finally I dry brushed the coupler with Roof Brown paint to give it a rust color. - Mark N. Goedert
