Friday, 6 November 2026

November This and That

People seem to notice the red Matchbox dump truck that I keep on the layout, and from time to time I get comments about it, not just here on the blog but occasionally on a facebook post as well. The comments are never critical, but just that it's been noticed and a few commenters have said that they have or had the same truck. I've had mine since I was about 8 years old, so that's been a while.  Here's a couple of close views:Yes, it's a little oversize for HO scale, but I don't care. I like it, and I'm keeping it on there.


I did some work on this Rapido boxcar this week for Jamie.  It's not finished yet, but it's getting there.The graffiti is decals.  I faded the boxcar with a very thin mix of white and grey paints.  Also seen are the paints and brushes that I've used for the rust.

The 2nd side.  I masked off all of the areas seen in blue here, and then sprayed the Primer Gray patch.  The rust and streaks were done after that.

The top car in the picture was already finished.  I've kept it close by to help me weather number 3077 to be similar, but not the same.

I happened these photos on facebook from the Marine Historical Society of Detroit page.  Both pictures from the St. Clair River right here at downtown Sarnia.  Not sure, but as I read through the comments I think both photos were taken by Emory Massman.

I used to park on Front Street here in town at lunchtime, and watch these two crossing the river and CN loading and unloading them.


These ferries would carry the excess height cars across the river before the new tunnel under the river was built.  Seeing those big 86 footers crossing was of course the reason that I have those type of models on the layout.

Here's a link to Craig's Modeling Corner, a facebook page/group that features tips for some pretty nice detailing: Craig's Modeling Corner  When you do click on the link, it should open in a separate window for you.

At least watch this one: Model the Most Realistic Railroad Track


Remembrance Day next Wednesday.