Time Marches On
With the impending arrival of warmer weather, I notice my schedule has several interesting events. Before getting to that, here’s a recap on recent modeling and design difficulties and progress.
First, I’ve been dealing with computer issues. It is amazing how much this can affect other projects but a failing computer slows any research in the Internet, email correspondence, and reviewing prototype images stored on the computer. I have been witnessing the slow death of my old computer for a few months. Last weekend it would not boot up after several attempts over a few days. So I spent two full days reformatting a spare unit and reinstalling software and drivers. Most of the important files were saved to an external hard drive but I eventually need to excavate old email files. Computer reformatting and program reloading is a major time sink but I did this work close to my modeling workbench so it was easy to fill the long moments between approving computer steps. Over the last two days, three HO scale, Tichy USRA single-sheathed box car kits have been progressing. The KC brake systems need to be installed next, then all of the grab irons (the holes are already drilled!), sill steps, brake staffs, running boards, couplers, air hoses and Carmer uncoupling levers. These may roll out of the car shop tomorrow! At the same time, I now have a speedy computer ready to use.
Last week two other box cars rolled out of the car shop. Two HO scale Red Caboose 1923 ARA design box cars are about ready for paint and lettering. Carmer uncoupling levers are the last details to add. One car will be painted and lettered as a Pennsylvania Railroad X29 box car while the other will be done as a Wheeling & Lake Erie 25000 series box car.
Upgrading a few HO scale Accurail USRA double-sheathed box cars will be the next project.
I don’t know what inspired me to get all of these rolling. Possibly it is the slowly changing weather as northeast Ohio breaks out of winter’s grip. I look forward to displaying some of these models at upcoming events. Spring is a great time to recharge and find inspiration for the next modeling challenge. I plan to attend several regional events in the next few months and encourage you to look around for local meets so you can also recharge. Here are a few of the events looming on the horizon. I plan to participate in all but one of these. Links and notes are included for your info.
March 20 & 21 - - Railfest in Kirtland, Ohio
This is a basic train show and well attended by a variety of dealers and buyers. While there are no clinics or presentations, even a swap meet like this can get the ideas flowing after a long winter.
March 26 & 27 - - Midwest Narrow Gauge Meet in Canfield, Ohio
As the title suggests, this has a focus on narrow gauge railroads. There will be presentations, display layouts and several dealers. I will be there to sell some old narrow gauge kits and books. We all move on with our interests and it is time for me to part with several items.
April 17 - - Pittsburgh Model Railroad Jamboree in Pittsburgh, Penna.
This is a great one-day meet full of fabulous clinics and fellowship. I’ve attended and presented in the past, but an unable to attend this year. This is the type of event that can really inspire you to try new techniques or ideas. If you are close to Pittsburgh, I recommend attending.
April 23 & 24 - - Central Ohio Prototype Modelers Meet in Marion, Ohio
I believe this is a first time event for a busy railroad town. I’ll be presenting a clinic on the glass industry of Ohio. Several other interesting presentations are set and there will be a few dealers. There should be a wade variety of models on display, too. It should be well worth the $20 registration.
May 13 - 16 - - The Coalfield Express, an NMRA Mid-Central Region Convention in Charleston, W. Va.
A regional NMRA convention is another great event to find new ideas and inspiration. I look forward to venturing south and seeing old friends at the Coalfield Express. I’ll be presenting a clinic on “Upgrading Freight Car Models to Reflect Prototype Practices”. These conventions typically have 150 to 200 registrants with great local tours, layouts and clinics. It is well worth checking out the possibilities close to your home.
Busy days are just ahead. I hope to post images of the latest models in the next couple of weeks.
Lastly, I may have that floor sander on-site in early April to prepare the layout room. My fingers are crossed!
May 16th, 2010 at 17:05
This is a great way to encourage and grow the pastime of Model Railroading. I have learned so much about this hobby and seeing the enjoyment that it brings around the world. I started out as a child with just a Lionel train set, however I see there is a wide variety of model trains, scales, niches and sub niches.