Hi Pieter,
Thanks for the additional information. I’ve been postponing the issue for now until my layout is further along, but I have to backdate most of my standard gauge rolling stock and brakes are one of the main issues that needs to be addressed. Of course a kit that works without modification is great. I’m familiar with the standard K brakes with the one piece cylinder/reservoir since that is under almost all of my narrow gauge rolling stock. Another issue is that I need more 3’ rolling stock built. I’ll probably need 100 boxcars when I’m done and in the last year I haven’t done much other than benchwork, track and wiring. Since my layout is supposed to be set in the backwoods of Pennsylvania, I figure about 50% of my standard gauge boxcars should be lettered for the PRR and they’re not. My last layout was sort of set in the 1930’s and that would be easier, except by then the hemlock forests in Pennsylvania were essentially cut down. It’s freelance and my world, so I’ll just have to decide. Dave Heine Easton, PA From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Pieter Roos Sent: Tuesday, August 13, 2013 8:58 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: {S-Scale List} Re: S Scale PRR X29 Hi Dave; Bill may have more information, but I think the cars are good for the early 1920's X29. The first ones built did have archbar trucks, maybe the brass PRR archbars Bill did a couple of years ago would be correct. One thing that has not been mentioned about the kits is that they come with KD ("split K") brakes. These would be as-built until about WWII, those of us modeling the later 1940's or after probably want to replace them with AB components from Grandt Line or BTS. Don't replace the brake wheel, most of these cars did not upgrade to geared hand brakes when the K type air brakes were replaced. Also, don't install the upper left side bracket grab iron for 1920's or 1930's use of the X29, and it probably just had "Pennsylvania" spelled out on the side, no keystone herald. You can find photos to help in some of the articles I linked yesterday. The fact that we now have the KD type brakes in S is good. If you want to back-date an SHS USRA hopper to as-built you will want to get a set from Ron. Lots of other early cars used these as well. Pieter E. Roos
