Model railroading often extends beyond simply running trains; it involves recreating the entire railroad ecosystem, including maintenance of way (MOW) equipment. A critical component of MOW operations is the Railroad Tool Car, essential for carrying equipment and personnel to repair and maintain tracks. This project details the conversion of a Rivarossi 60′ baggage car into a dedicated railroad tool car, adding a touch of realism and functionality to a model railroad.
Choosing the Right Car for Conversion
Initially, the plan was to modify Athearn Blue Box passenger cars. However, their 74′ length posed challenges navigating tight tunnel clearances and 30″ radius curves. Shorter cars were considered, but many featured 4-wheel trucks. The desire for a more realistic appearance with 6-wheel trucks led to the discovery of a Rivarossi 60′ baggage car on eBay. This car offered the ideal length, appropriate trucks, and intricate underbody detail, making it a perfect candidate for conversion into a railroad tool car. The reasonable price was a bonus.
From Baggage Car to Tool Car: The Transformation Process
The conversion process began with a trip to the paint shop. The sides of the car were painted Union Pacific Armor Yellow, a common color for MOW equipment, while the roof received a coat of Vallejo aluminum. Researching prototype baggage cars in MOW service revealed a surprising lack of consistent lettering and dimensional data. While initially intending to add “MofW” or “Tool Car” lettering, a minimalist approach was ultimately adopted. The result is a clean and simple design, reflecting the often understated appearance of real-world tool cars.
Detailing and Weathering for Added Realism
Following the painting process, attention turned to detailing and weathering. The grab irons were painted white, adhering to the standard paint scheme for MOW equipment. To simulate years of service, oil paints were used to heavily weather the ends of the diaphragms. The sides and roof received a light weathering treatment using artist’s acrylics, suggesting a recent repaint and maintaining a balance between realism and a presentable appearance. This weathering helps the railroad tool car blend seamlessly into a working model railroad environment.
Integrating the Tool Car into Operations
The completed railroad tool car, numbered 91094, is now ready for service. It will eventually be joined by a Tichy 120-ton Brownhoist crane, currently awaiting its own paint shop transformation. This dynamic duo will form the core of a dedicated wreck train consist, adding operational interest and visual appeal to the layout. The wreck train will be utilized during operating sessions, simulating realistic maintenance and emergency response scenarios. When not in active service, it will be staged on one of the RIP (Repair In Place) tracks at North Pierce, further enhancing the layout’s realism.
