Many thanks to those who have contributed to my questions.
I did check on those extra parts that came with the Plano running
boards. Yes some seem to be platforms for the lateral platforms to rest
on while the insides seem to be the end bracing for the car. I'm
tempted to solder those brass etchings to the running boards with the
hopes of making one complete assembly. Several years ago, Southwind
sold similar etched running boards for use on the AM boxcars. I was able
to successfully solder them together using acid flux that came with a
PBL resistance soldering device. There is still one rectangular piece
on the stainless sheet that has several holes and a little V cut into it
that is a mystery!. I can only think it's some kind of template--but
for what?
Now to the glue, I will probably avoid the use of Goo or Ambroid just
because of the stringy-ness of the glue itself, not to mention the amber
color as I'm hoping to avoid painting the running boards (although that
might be wishful thinking). I have seen the glue that Ed has mentioned
and might even have used it in the past. Or if I decide to use a super
glue type product, I might try the very thin one and just let it weep in
to seek out the joint between the plastic roof and the etching. I guess
it's time to experiment a bit.
BTW, apparently the 50' version of the runningboards are out of stock at
DesPlains--does anybody want to sell any from their stash? I have some
from Earl Tuscon but have avoided them because they are etched brass and
seem to be perhaps a bit too flexible.
I've got two more reefer cars to build before I have to worry about the
roof sections and those have a simpler arrangement.
Bob Werre
PhotoTraxx
Bob,
I have about a dozen PRS cars on the layout with Plano roofwalks, both
40’ and 50’. I used Goo at first on a couple, but switched to CYA
because the Goo was too messy and hard to place. With my nomadic
lifestyle, these cars have been packed up and moved several times and
are holding up just fine. I seem to remember having to repair a
couple at some point, but not sure why.
I used wire for the roof grabs. Never thought to try the plastic
ones: how do the holes line up?
I think the brass items you refer to are the frames to support the
side platforms, and the roofwalk end supports. There are also 2 types
of brake platforms, to allow for different spacing of the brake wheel
shaft in relation to the ladder. I used the PRS brackets for the
brake support, as they are nicely done.
I have the instructions if anyone needs a copy.
Roger Nulton
*From:* Bob Werre <mailto:[email protected]>
*Sent:* Friday, January 04, 2013 10:47 AM
*To:* S Scale <mailto:[email protected]>
*Subject:* {S-Scale List} Plano/DesPlains running boards
Gentlemen:
Although I'm a few days away from using these items, I thought I would
ask a couple of questions. I'm about to install the former Plano
stainless steel running boards/brake platforms on some PRS cars. I
hoping some of you might have paved the way.
First off, I don't intend on using superglue to fasten the long roof
board, instead on trying something more flexible--perhaps silicon
caulking. Seems as though someone else has used that.
Next I am still hoping to use the plastic roof grabs that are inserted
into the steel--has that worked? And lastly, there some etched brass
items included in the package--I don't have a clue what they're for!
If anybody has any experience in using these items, let me know of your
experiences.
Bob Werre
PhotoTraxx
