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Forum Boards => Kit Building => Topic started by: Opa George on June 27, 2020, 06:26:20 PM

Title: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on June 27, 2020, 06:26:20 PM
Today I am starting the Fine Scale Miniatures Coal Tower, kit 145. John Siekirk built this for the 2020 Build Challenge, starting his kit on New Years Day.  He did a magnificent job on it. I had the wonderfully good fortune to receive this kit earlier this spring from a forum benefactor. So I hope to do an equally good job, and perhaps provide some additional notes for anyone building it, without stepping on John's toes or stealing any of his (well deserved) thunder.

Here are the box contents. At extreme left is a very large plastic bag with most of the parts for the actual tower. The smaller bag contains parts for the machinery and sand house. Other items of note--two high quality glossy large format instruction sheets with full scale templates and excellent reference photos, roof cards, acetate, long lengths of scale lumber, fine wire, rolls shingles, a correction sheet and those beautiful castings:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-270620180414-44626450.jpeg)

Here are all the castings for the kit. I grouped them with the structural parts to the left, and the "extras" to the right.  I have always respected and admired George for including enough of those extra details to make a complete scene.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-270620180415-446422280.jpeg)

To get started, the first thing I did was consult the "corrections" card to make the necessary corrections to the instruction sheets.  It corrects a few incorrectly printed dimensions and notes a corrected placement of a wall, and a note about a corner trim post.  All very necessary to success.  I did not want to skip over this to do "later" only to forget about it, then find myself searching for an incorrect size of lumber, or worse, using the incorrect size.

Step two is to begin weathering the wood, starting with the wall pieces.  I noted the scribed siding has a very nice grain to start, so I decided to skip the harsh weathering with wire brushes and etc.  With much of the walls having outside bracing, I think this will be ok.
I used alcohol and ink in a slightly strong mix for the walls.  Unfortunately I can't report the exact mixture.  I just know it is a little darker than normal:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-270620180415-44643217.jpeg)

As John noted in his build, the age of the wood in the box affects how it takes the stain.  You can see a bit of that here, although some pieces are still damp.  I'll show another pic tomorrow after all are completely dry.

All for now,
Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on June 27, 2020, 06:42:02 PM
George


You are going to love building this kit. I will be following along.  I plan on building the other coal tower that George put out (I think it's number 75) for the new section of my layout. If I remember correctly there was a few pieces that got two coats of stain.  The wood from my kit was very dry - I think I bought it from someone in AZ. ;)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on June 27, 2020, 07:04:55 PM
Good start, George.

I'll be watching.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on June 27, 2020, 09:20:51 PM
Great start George.  I'll be following.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on June 28, 2020, 08:04:13 AM
Good morning George,
So glad to see you digging in to the kit, and looking forward to your build and eventual placement on your layout.
And now we know what you will likely say in the fall when asked what you did over your summer vacation  :D
All the best and of course I'll be following along,
--Paul    ;)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: GPdemayo on June 28, 2020, 08:43:30 AM
One of my favorite coaling towers.....I'll enjoy watching you put this one together George.  :)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ReadingBob on June 28, 2020, 11:47:16 AM
Count me in too George.  I think I have this one in the stash.  Always fun to follow along with your builds as well as with any FSM build.  ;)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: bandman on June 28, 2020, 02:53:45 PM
Looking forward to your build.:)  I've had this kit for about 42 years...still in the box...waiting. :(

Horton M.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: WigWag Workshop on June 29, 2020, 12:03:35 PM
Looking forward to the build.  Looks like a fun kit. and I am sure I will get a lot of ideas for my future builds.


-Steven
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on June 29, 2020, 04:12:33 PM
Hello everyone and so good to have so many people "in the room!"  I like company. Thanks for following John, Mark, Curt, Paul, Greg, Bob, Horton and Steven!

Time to get busy.

Below are the various stacks of pre-cut stripwood, stained with A&I and ready to go.  I followed George's advice to keep them handy in pre-sorted piles.  After getting into the first wall, I can certainly see the wisdom in that. The front wall requires a large assortment of different sizes, and this was easier than having to keep measuring to find the correct piece.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290620154439-44644189.jpeg)

The walls are built on top of the full-size plans.  As the printed plans often come with folds, it is critical to get them flat.  I used painter's tape to get it secured to my workbench, then taped wax paper on top of the plan.  The wood structure is built on top of the wax paper, held in place with pinpoints of glue.  The front wall, in progress below, is about half done.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290620154439-446472006.jpeg)

At this point, the front wall framework is removed from the plan in order to be glued on top of the scribed wall section.  The wax paper gives up the glue easily, so removing the framework is easy.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290620154439-446481107.jpeg)

Below is the front wall secured to the scribed wall backing, and with additional bracing and structural boards added.  The bottom is backed with individual boards.  For variety, I applied additional Hunterline stains to about six of each, and mixed them up. The Hunterline stains used were Light Gray and Driftwood.  I also applied an extra bit of A&I to a few.  The trick in placing the boards is to avoid a zebra effect.  I mixed the various board colors and tried my best to pick up and install them randomly. 
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290620154440-446491565.jpeg)

A few castings are installed, and George noted the wall should be put aside at this point.  Good place to stop for the day.  My camera flash really makes the castings jump out, but in person they are not as jarring. I also carved in some dry-rot, split boards and broken areas with an X-actor knife. No other weathering yet.  I'll be adding rust stains, dirt and grime later.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290620154440-44650267.jpeg)

The castings are painted Rustoleum red primer, for a basic rust, then dry-brushed with acrylic "Gun Metal" for a metallic look. The concrete base was primed with Rustoleum Camouflage Khaki, lightly oversprayed with Rustoleum Gray primer, then given a shot of Rustoleum texture spray paint Desert Bisque.  It will get additional weathering with chalks, grime and etc.

I should be able to start the rear wall tomorrow.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: deemery on June 29, 2020, 04:36:12 PM
The tools column in NMRA Mag this month recommends getting a seam iron from a sewing store to flatten those creases.  That sounds like a good idea.  I've been known to iron and once even starch plans to get them to lie flat.  (I'm old enough to remember when you had to starch your fatigue uniforms :-) )


dave
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Jerry on June 29, 2020, 05:34:42 PM
Great start George.  I'll follow along.
Your builds are so interesting.


Jerry
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on June 29, 2020, 06:26:03 PM
Great progress George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on June 29, 2020, 07:48:57 PM
Quote from: deemery on June 29, 2020, 04:36:12 PM
The tools column in NMRA Mag this month recommends getting a seam iron from a sewing store to flatten those creases.  That sounds like a good idea.  I've been known to iron and once even starch plans to get them to lie flat.  (I'm old enough to remember when you had to starch your fatigue uniforms :-) )

dave

Dave, excellent idea.  I may look into that.
--Opa Geo
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on June 29, 2020, 08:05:22 PM
You are moving right along - it looks great.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on June 29, 2020, 08:11:55 PM
Very nice George, and a great start on the coal tower !!
Thanks for sharing your build,
--Paul
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on June 30, 2020, 04:27:30 PM
Thank you, John, and thank you, Paul!  Happy to do it, of course.

I got time to work on the remaining three walls today. First up the "rear" wall, which begins with overlaying the rear tower wall onto the main rear wall.  Slightly unusual.  The big trick is to line it up correctly, which means checking the plans carefully.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161626-446741238.jpeg)

Then the more traditional framework built over the plans.  This is the same method I used for the front wall.  It went quicker as I already knew what parts were needed, and where.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161626-44675773.jpeg)

And putting the framework over the scribed walls, adding castings and supports.  The coal chute castings are only holding a place to determine the correct placement of the framing.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161626-44676853.jpeg)

Building the first side wall went so quickly and easily that I forgot to take a progress shot.  Just be careful to line everything up straight!
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161626-44677998.jpeg)

Getting the tower wall overlayed correctly to the side wall took some care.  I checked multiple times against the plan.  I think it's ok!
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161626-446781514.jpeg)

Here are the four walls, nearly ready to put together. I still need to put the window casting into the second side wall.  I also added some grime and dirt to the other walls. 
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-300620161706.jpeg)

More tomorrow if I'm not too tired from my first day back in the office!
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: vinceg on June 30, 2020, 05:01:10 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on June 30, 2020, 06:57:11 PM
Looks awesome George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: sdrees on June 30, 2020, 08:11:22 PM
This is looking good George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on July 01, 2020, 07:44:30 AM
You are doing a great job George. There is a lot of checking it twice required getting things lined up where they need to be.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on July 01, 2020, 03:10:14 PM
Looking good, George.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: engine909 on July 01, 2020, 03:57:06 PM
Well done George. Are you using chalk paint? If so whose please? I use Annie Sloan.
Thank you
ed
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 01, 2020, 07:40:43 PM
Quote from: engine909 on July 01, 2020, 03:57:06 PM
Well done George. Are you using chalk paint? If so whose please? I use Annie Sloan.
Thank you
ed

Thanks, Ed.  I do use Folk Art brand chalk paint, and also have "Fawn" color from Waverly brand.  Although the one in the pic is functioning only as a handy weight.  I like them for concrete and rock work.  Nice matte finish.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 01, 2020, 07:49:11 PM
Thanks for checking in Mark, John, Steve, Vince and Curt.  I had a little time this evening and managed to get the four walls up.

I began by attaching and squaring up the two "tower" walls, as the common joint was the longest. While they should have matched up exactly, I found one was about 1/32 taller.  Possibly too much glue in one of the joints?  So I split the difference, which allowed the scribed wood pattern on the adjoining walls to almost nearly match--you have to really look hard to see a slight mismatch on either side of the corner post.

After that first joint was set, I added in the front wall and squared it up with the last side wall.  Below are two pics showing the assembly drying.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-010720193616-44740113.jpeg)

and the other side.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-010720193616-447422261.jpeg)

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: vinceg on July 02, 2020, 07:49:38 AM
You're flying through it, George. As usual. Looks great. Also as usual.

I like those plastic jubers. Are those from Micromark? Seems like the light weight lets you use them in applications where others would just fall or squish the model or both.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Jerry on July 02, 2020, 08:39:05 AM
That is really coming together quickly.  Beautiful work George.


Jerry
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 02, 2020, 03:26:44 PM
Quote from: vinceg on July 02, 2020, 07:49:38 AM
You're flying through it, George. As usual. Looks great. Also as usual.

I like those plastic jubers. Are those from Micromark? Seems like the light weight lets you use them in applications where others would just fall or squish the model or both.

HI Vince,
Thanks for the support and following along.  The clamps are made by Excel and they are really useful in delicate modeling.  They can hold a 90 degree corner, or even clamp a triangular construction. I got them on eBay, but they are available all over.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 02, 2020, 03:29:08 PM
Quote from: Jerry on July 02, 2020, 08:39:05 AM
That is really coming together quickly.  Beautiful work George.

Jerry

Thanks very much, Jerry.  I'm really enjoying this kit.  It looks complex and complicated, but George's instructions and templates make it relatively easy, given just a little craftsman kit experience. With holiday preparations next few days, work may slow down, though.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: hairball on July 02, 2020, 07:40:26 PM
This is one of 3 fsm kits I never built but owned them.  Also the 165 rock bunker I never built and #30 signal tower.

Reading the story and viewing the pictures makes me wish I would have built it.  Now working in O scale this would be a scratch build and be a mini monster.  it would be impressive to look at , as will this when finished.

mike lynch---------------------HAIRBALL
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 03, 2020, 03:27:02 PM
Mike, this would indeed be awesome in O scale. Maybe you'll get inspired!

Today I took a little time to put in the coal bunker floors. Before that, I jumped ahead of the instructions to put plastic acetate in the windows, figuring it would be easier without floors in the way. I cut the glazing from the sheet using the full size plans--much easier than my usual cut and trim to fit.  No window shades on the tower, though. I think the only use of windows on this structure would be to provide natural light to the inside for illumination.

Two pieces of stripwood were added to the bottom of each front and back wall to support each floor edge, then the floors were glued in place, scribed side facing down, with one resting at its peak on the edge of the other. Prior to installation, I added some bracing to correct a minor warping.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-030720151457-447901690.jpeg)

The little bit of discoloration at the peak marks where I added some dabs of cyanoacrylate to secure the joint.  The edge of one floor kept wanting to slip down by about 1/16th. The super glue stopped it in its tracks.  I checked, and it is not visible on the scribed side underneath.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-030720151457-44804248.jpeg)

Here is the underside, which will receive lots of bracing shortly.  But before that, I will be building the other two interior walls of the tower.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-030720151458-448051955.jpeg)

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on July 03, 2020, 04:08:01 PM
It's coming along great George !!
Looks very nice and you are making very good progress.
All the best,
--Paul
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 03, 2020, 05:29:39 PM
Quote from: PaulS on July 03, 2020, 04:08:01 PM
It's coming along great George !!
Looks very nice and you are making very good progress.
All the best,
--Paul

Thanks, Paul. I'm rather surprised at how quickly the work progresses on this kit. With so many of the lumber pre-cut to exact size, it is a pleasure to work with.
Happy 4th of July to you!
--George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 03, 2020, 07:38:38 PM
Great job George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ReadingBob on July 04, 2020, 10:55:35 AM
Looks great!  Following along with these older FSM kit builds is blast.   :D
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on July 04, 2020, 09:15:30 PM
Looks great George! I wonder how many hours George had into each one of these kits cutting all the strip wood and clapboard. No laser work on this one.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: postalkarl on July 06, 2020, 04:08:20 PM
Hey George:

It's coming along very nicely. Can't wait to see more.

Karl
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 06, 2020, 08:22:39 PM
Thanks much, Curt, Bob, John and Karl. 

A little more time to work on it this evening as thundershowers threaten. 

I jumped ahead and added the center brace between the two interior floor sections because I didn't want to work around the completed interior tower walls.  George recommends completing the tower's interior walls at this point by building down from the sloped floors. That proved to be good advice.

The topmost part of the interior walls are short, and I started by measuring and cutting the one that did not need to be angled.  Once I had that cut and was satisfied with a trial fit, I cut a second piece to the same height.  The second piece was then cut diagonally to create the angled wall piece.  Below is the first, non-angled wall piece, in position (just above my index finger).
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-060720200644-448531801.jpeg)

Here is another view of that starter piece, showing how it will fit into the interior wall scheme.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-060720200644-448541179.jpeg)

Once the two top pieces are cut to fit, the two interior bottom pieces require no cutting as they should match up to the exterior walls. Below are the two interior bottom wall pieces. The one on the left has a small pit of scrapwood at the top to help it attach to it's upper mate.  The one on the right has the angled piece attached at the top, and the corner post attached at the edge where it will join to the other interior walls.  Note that I also notched that wall piece at the right top and bottom so it will clear other trim and the "concrete" base.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-060720200644-44855860.jpeg)

Here is the interior bottom wall (left, above) attached to that first starter piece and clamped until the glue set.  (Love my clothespins for quick clamps)
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-060720200644-44856976.jpeg)

Finally, the last interior wall piece in place to complete the tower interior up to the floor.  This time I used the square clamp to hold it tight and square.  Now it needs to dry completely.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-060720200644-448572092.jpeg)

All for now!
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on July 07, 2020, 01:19:34 AM
Nice progress, George.  Its coming on a treat!

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: tom.boyd.125 on July 07, 2020, 12:59:52 PM
George,
Your coal tower build is moving along fine...will follow along to pick up more construction tips...
Tommy
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 07, 2020, 08:14:06 PM
Thanks for the comments, Mark and Tommy!  I enjoy and value your input any time.

Tonight I added studs underneath the bunker floor.  These were precut but for minor fitting. I found I needed to slightly angle the end that joined the bottom floor supports for a good fit.  Sounds simple, but these took me a good hour.
Here is what the completed stud arrangement looks like.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-070720200631-44867199.jpeg)

And another angle.  You may also notice I installed the floor to the hoist tower.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-070720200631-4486899.jpeg)

And finally the cross beams.  These attached flush to the studs.  Really not much to comment on here.  I needed to trim these by about 1/16th inch to fit, but that is per the instructions, so not a mis-fit.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-070720200631-44869496.jpeg)

All for now.
--Opa George


Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 07, 2020, 08:43:10 PM
Great modeling George. This is going to look awesome when complete.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ReadingBob on July 07, 2020, 08:50:21 PM
This is coming along wonderfully (and quickly) George.

You made me look.  I do have this in my stash.  If I ever get around to it I'll certainly try to remember to refer back to your thread for tips/tricks/ideas.   ;)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on July 07, 2020, 09:58:49 PM
Looking great George - and you are moving fast on this.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 08, 2020, 06:32:36 AM
Quote from: PRR Modeler on July 07, 2020, 08:43:10 PM
Great modeling George. This is going to look awesome when complete.

Thanks, Curt. I appreciate you looking in.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 08, 2020, 06:34:18 AM
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 07, 2020, 08:50:21 PM
This is coming along wonderfully (and quickly) George.

You made me look.  I do have this in my stash.  If I ever get around to it I'll certainly try to remember to refer back to your thread for tips/tricks/ideas.   ;)

Thank you, Bob.  I am also benefitting from tips from John, who completed this a few months ago.  This forum does have a rich stash of good advice.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 08, 2020, 06:37:29 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on July 07, 2020, 09:58:49 PM
Looking great George - and you are moving fast on this.

Thanks, John.  It does go quickly even though it looks complicated.  The pre-cut pieces save a lot of time.  You commented a few days ago on the amount of time that George must have spent in putting each kit together--and I agree.  I haven't found any missing pieces, mis-cut pieces or other problems.  The full scale plans are printed to exact size.  Just an excellent kit all around.
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 10, 2020, 07:19:54 AM
Last evening I built up another framework of the posts that help support the bunker floors. These are the ones that rest on a bottom wall plate on the middle concrete base.

As the bunker floor beams (bearers?) were previously glued flush to the joists of the angled floor, the upper ends of the support posts must be notched to rest securely in place.  This required the tiniest of trim work at one end, as below:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720064811-44929297.jpeg)

Each beam aligns with a bunker floor joist. The notching actually makes it quite easy to position the top of the post.  I started with the post that aligns with the inner hoist tower wall to get a proper starting point in aligning the bottom of the post on the wall bottom plate.  That gave me a reference point for determining where to position the bottom of the next post on the plate.

Below, all posts are in place. It looks as if one more is required at the left in the middle of the hoist tower wall, but plans do not call for a sixth post in that position and in fact George allows for longer sway bracing between the two posts that are wider apart.  I mention this because I was going to absent-mindedly glue one in place there, but that would have left me short by one post. 

I positioned the right-hand end post before the post next to it, knowing the end post should be flush against the peaked wall. Once that was in place, I could position the remaining post, visually dividing the distance between the third (middle) and fifth (end) posts where it joins the plate.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720064811-449302074.jpeg)

The sway bracing between posts is pre-cut to length and goes on quickly.  In the photo below, I have started to position the first support for the worker's platform.  George does not specify an exact height for the platform, so I estimated it from laying the structure against the full size plans.  I could have also measured but didn't! ;)
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720064811-44931775.jpeg)

Below is the completed worker's platform, and also a good view of the sway bracing in place.  Note that the middle concrete base lacks weathering at this point and looks nice and clean compared to it's neighbors.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720064811-44932621.jpeg)

Another view of this completed interior support wall.  I did not yet put on NBW castings, as I wanted to give it all a good chance to dry.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720064811-449331479.jpeg)
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on July 10, 2020, 07:45:37 AM
So very nice George.  You are doing a wonderful job on this classic.
Every step just brings out more of the character in this coal tower !!
Keep up the great work and all the best,
--Paul
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ACL1504 on July 10, 2020, 01:07:11 PM
George,

Great looking build. I built this one some 40+ years ago and really enjoyed the process.

Tom  ;D
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 10, 2020, 02:47:03 PM
Thank you, Paul, and thank you, Tom.  Paul, it is a classic, and Tom, it also holds up very well for enjoyment of construction in this age of laser-cut everything. Today I started the very top floor of the structure and it fit together perfectly.

Rain has cut into my gardening time today, so here's a bit more work on this kit.  I installed the hoist floor, which cleared me to add on the last of the walls. 
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720143322-44934170.jpeg)

The windows were installed and glazed with the included acetate, and I added corner posts to the peaked ends. The dormer wall on the hoist tower fits between the corner posts that were left extended from the lower wall. In fact that was the first wall I installed. When the glue dried, I tipped the structure over to trim the corner posts to match the roof angle.  After that, I began installing the rest of the walls.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720143322-449352488.jpeg)

The rest is just a box.  Below it is glued and clamped.  When installing the two long walls, make sure you install them with the windows at the end opposite the hoist tower.  If you reverse them, one of the windows will be hidden behind the tower.  I don't yet have the last wall installed: which is the last hoist tower wall still lying on the cutting board.  Once the "box" is set, I will trim that last piece to fit and install.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-100720143322-449361411.jpeg)

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on July 10, 2020, 03:25:15 PM
Looking terrific, George!

And the rain is good for the garden and modeling!

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: postalkarl on July 10, 2020, 05:23:02 PM
Hey George:

It's getting there. Looks just great.

Karl
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: WigWag Workshop on July 11, 2020, 08:40:00 AM
Coming along nicely, I am getting a ton of inspiration. 
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 11, 2020, 08:58:36 AM
Beautiful modeling George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: GPdemayo on July 11, 2020, 10:44:48 AM
Moving right along George..... :)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 11, 2020, 01:53:11 PM
Thanks for the supportive comments, everyone.

Moving right along to the roof, I cut out the various roofs from the heavy cardstock. Here I varied from the instructions in that George has you gluing the cardstock to the structure and then applying the roll shingles, whereas I prefer to shingle the roofs first, then glue in place.  Different roofing materials may dictate a different response--for instance if I had decided to use corrugated metal panels, I would have indeed glued the cardstock in place first.

So my technique was to apply water with a small paintbrush to the roll shingles and apply them to the cardstock roof. When completely covered, I flipped it over and trimmed the sides as needed, then used rattle can Rustoleum Camouflage Khaki as a primer coat, with a light overspray of Rustoleum light gray primer.  Later, I will weather with streaks of browns and grays, lift some shingles, then dry brush the entire thing with white to bring out highlights.

But for now, here is the structure with roofs installed and a start on rafter ends:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-110720134024-449491826.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-110720134024-449501018.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-110720134024-44951489.jpeg)

As a note, the roll shingles--I think they are Campbell roll shingles--were in excellent condition and the mucilage in good shape.  So I did not need additional glue.  Nice surprise in an older kit.  I really like using the roll shingles and can get good results with a little work.

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: jerryrbeach on July 11, 2020, 08:39:37 PM
George,


Just getting caught up on this thread.  As usual, beautiful modeling!
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 22, 2020, 07:34:55 AM
Thanks for checking in, Jerry, and for the nice comment.

It's been a few days since I have had workbench time, but managed to squeeze in a bit last evening.  I cut and applied the rafter ends all around, then built and installed the three work platforms that surround the building on three sides.  The platform construction was very straightforward:  just build it over the full size template, let dry, then remove and install.

My biggest concern was to get the platforms installed at the correct height. George says study the drawing and install, but it is not as easy as it appears.  I measured the drawing with a scale ruler and used those measurements for the installation.  I think I got them at the right height.  I think it looks ok.

Here is a pic of one side. :
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-220720072436-45038132.jpeg)

Here is the other side/third platform:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-220720072436-4503970.jpeg)

Next up will be finishing the roof (ridge caps and painting).
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 22, 2020, 09:42:15 AM
Looks awesome George. Do the platforms have railings yet to be installed?
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 22, 2020, 12:53:33 PM
Quote from: PRR Modeler on July 22, 2020, 09:42:15 AM
Looks awesome George. Do the platforms have railings yet to be installed?

Thanks, Curt.  Yes, the platform railings are next, along with ladders.  I am out of order, having put off roof painting until the paper shingles dried completely. In checking John's build of this kit at this point, he had all of the underneath bracing done by now whereas I don't have any bracing underneath on the front side.  Either I missed that step, or it comes later and John just installed it early.  I'll have to review the instructions in case I accidentally skipped over it, which is most likely.

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 22, 2020, 08:03:17 PM
I didn't quite get to the railings and ladders yet.  Went back to look for the bracing instructions for the front wall, but could not find them, so just added the bracing based upon the photos and full size plans.  Then I went back and finished the roofs and touched up a few areas. 

I wanted to get this basic work done before the delicate railings and ladders go on.   It is starting to get a bit difficult to handle the structure at this point without knocking something loose.  It is really shaping up, now.

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-220720195809-450402138.jpeg)

Sorry that this shot came out slightly out of focus.

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-220720195809-45042421.jpeg)

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on July 22, 2020, 08:08:05 PM
It looks great George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on July 23, 2020, 08:06:04 AM
Very, very nice George !!
Looks great so far sitting on your bench and is going to look even that much better once in place on your layout.
Thanks for sharing the build and you know I'm following along ...
All the best,
--Paul
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 23, 2020, 10:27:59 AM
Quote from: PaulS on July 23, 2020, 08:06:04 AM
Very, very nice George !!
Looks great so far sitting on your bench and is going to look even that much better once in place on your layout.
Thanks for sharing the build and you know I'm following along ...
All the best,
--Paul

Paul,
This is a beautiful kit and because it is so well engineered, it is very enjoyable to build. I'm having a blast with it.
Best,
--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Jerry on July 23, 2020, 02:38:42 PM
Whoa that is one nice looking roof!!


beautiful all around work George.


Jerry
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on July 23, 2020, 03:12:44 PM
Looking terrific, George!

The ridge cappings, barge boards and flashings really make this roof.  I especially like them being in a different colour. 

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 23, 2020, 07:14:07 PM
Thanks, Jerry and Mark, for the compliments on the roof.  I have to say I am pleased with the way it came out. The material is the old rolled and gummed paper shingles.  I applied them as usual before installing them on the structure, then let them thoroughly dry for a few days.

Here is how I colored them. I must have been in a bold mood, because I never used this combination of coloring before, but it seemed logical.
1. All shingles were applied to the flat cardstock forms before installing on the structure. This is my usual procedure. With the exception of corrugated roofing, I rarely apply roofing materials to roofs after they are on the building.
2. When dry, I gave them all a light overspray of Rustoleum light gray auto primer.  By "light," I mean up close you could still discern a little of the natural brown paper color under the gray, but from a distance they appeared all light gray.
3.  After drying I installed them on the tower and let them cure for several days.
4.  I used the following artist tube acrylics to add shingle color on top of the primer:  burnt umber, raw umber, burnt sienna and paynes gray.  I imagine craft acrylics would give the same effect, although the artist acrylics thin out so nicely with water.  Using each color as a wash, I used the burnt sienna (the brightest) first, dabbing patches here and there and thinning out more if it looked blotchy. Then the burnt umber and finally the raw umber.  I didn't wash my brush between colors, so there was some natural blending. I finished with a wash of paynes gray for depth.    The wash for all was thin enough that much of the color settled in between the shingles, leaving a subtle coloration on the surface. 
5. Let everything dry for a day or two.  I was worried that all of the moisture from the wash might loosen the gum on the shingles, but that did not happen, perhaps due to the Rustoleum gray primer coat.
6. I decided I wanted a little more shadowing and definition, so a day or so later added an alcohol and ink wash.  Some of my ink had settled in the solution and I had not mixed it beforehand, so the first few brushfulls taken from the container bottom was pretty dark.  I dipped the brush back in near the top and got a lighter solution to blend it in.
7. After thoroughly dry, I lifted lots of the shingles with the tip of a #11 blade.
8.  Very light dry brushing with craft acrylic white to finish.

Typing it all out, it seems like a lot of steps, but you know how it is--you go back and add something, like the effect, try something else, etc.  It seems effortless as you go through it, though.

To finish it out, I decided to simulate rusted flashing instead of cap shingles.  I used a leftover strip of rolled roofing strip painted with Rustoleum red primer, for the rich rusty-brown look.  I simply cut a thin strip, about 1/8th inch wide, then ran my blade VERY LIGHTLY down the center to create a crease/fold line.  Then glued it in place with the fold along the peak, or for the internal flashing, with the fold in the "valley."  I finished with a toothpick to push it down and mold it into the creases.  Last step was to dust it with some gray and brown chalk dust.

So this was kind of a "make it up as you go," and fortunately it turned out well.

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ACL1504 on July 24, 2020, 07:23:29 AM
George,

Very well done, love the overall look. Once the ladders, chutes, sand pipes and railing are added it will be a real eye catcher. Again, well done.

Tom  ;D
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: postalkarl on July 24, 2020, 08:00:21 AM
Hey George:

Very well done. Love the colors you used. Can't wait to see it finished.

Karl
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 24, 2020, 12:27:45 PM
Thanks, Karl.  It did turn out well.  And thank you, Tom.  Well, let's get to some more of those details...

Below is a shot of the first two platform handrails as constructed directly on the template.  I got a little lazier this time and did not use wax paper between the wood and the original plans.  As these were much smaller constructions as opposed to building the walls over the templates, and as I was very careful to use pinpricks of glue, they came up easily without damaging the plans.

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-240720121020-45050732.jpeg)

Here are shots of the tower with platforms and handrails installed.  I also installed the electrical connections per the plans, from the supplied wire and castings.  You may also notice I added additional sway bracing to the underside support beams. As far as I could tell, this was not called for in the instructions and does not show on the plans, but it made sense, and I happened to have a spare pack of dimensional lumber that fit the bill.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-240720121020-450641069.jpeg)

Here is the front side.  (Hmm, second time my view of this side came out blurry...ghost in the machine?)
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-240720121020-450651181.jpeg)

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 24, 2020, 03:31:30 PM
Looks awesome George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 26, 2020, 04:29:19 PM
Many thank, Curt, for the compliment!

I added several details--ladders, doors and some etc.  But my main focus is now on getting the sandspouts and coal chutes installed and rigged.  Sandspouts were installed first, and I ended up gluing them into permanent position. They, along with their rigging, just seemed too delicate to make them operating (raise and lower).  I also misread the instructions to connect them with a piece of fine wire, which meant to connect them at the base to the wall, but I ran the wire from the pulley to the spout end.  That is an "oops," but I don't dislike the look.

Next are the four chutes, which are two-pieces each.  Quite a bit of driling to do here to open up holes, but I used a pin vise twist drill, and it all went quite well. George provided tiny indentations on the castings to help position and start the drill bit. Worked like a charm.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160113-451322310.jpeg)

Here is a close up of the complete assembly for one coal chute.  A small piece of wire holds it together at the base. The wire is bent at each end to keep it in place, and the chute moves easily.  Also a disclaimer here on painting--I have the castings all primed in red primer, and will add gunmetal and other weathering tones once they are in place and properly rigged.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160113-451331769.jpeg)

Below are several picture showing the chutes installed.  All are fully extended down, but as they are fully hinged, will be later positioned raised when the rigging and weights are added.  The chain pullers, on the end of each, were a bit of "fiddly" work.  I settled on acc to connect the tiny chain to the short length of wire, then used acc to connect the chain to the ends of the chutes.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160113-451341149.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160113-451351151.jpeg)

Here you can see the tiny wire "hinge" at the base of the chutes.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160113-451361963.jpeg)

Slightly different angle.  I later straightened out the "kink" in the hanging chain.  It was just a friction kink from the primer paint.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160203-45137907.jpeg)

Here is the front of the tower.  The ball weights are waiting for installation, probably tomorrow. That will be another bit of fiddly business.  The top of each ball weight string had to be drilled out to accept the thread "cable" as well.  This image also shows the loops at the top of each chute end. Those were drilled out, and will accept the thread cable that goes up over the pulley and will connect to the ball weights hanging below. 
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-260720160203-451382020.jpeg)

At this point, the chutes are fully "operational" in that they can be raised or lowered by adjusting the hanging ball weights (once I get them on).  I don't know if I will attempt that, or just put spots of glue on all the cable joints to keep things in position.  More on that decision next time.

Thanks for looking in.
--Opa George




Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 26, 2020, 04:52:12 PM
Great job on the chutes. I've made them from various manufacturers  but they always come out looking like crap
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: sdrees on July 26, 2020, 07:19:30 PM
Very nice job George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: bparrish on July 26, 2020, 08:42:45 PM
George......


This is a great thread topic.  You have explained what you are doing and how you got it done.


This is what is best of this forum.  It is what I have tried to do the same on threads that I have have navigated.  Just the teacher in me ......


Thanx for a great thread and a super finish of a very cool model. 


See ya
Bob
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: WigWag Workshop on July 27, 2020, 07:22:39 AM
Quote from: bparrish on July 26, 2020, 08:42:45 PM
George......


This is a great thread topic.  You have explained what you are doing and how you got it done.


This is what is best of this forum.  It is what I have tried to do the same on threads that I have have navigated.  Just the teacher in me ......


Thanx for a great thread and a super finish of a very cool model. 


See ya
Bob


I agree Bob this is a great forum, and the builds are amazing, I get so much inspiration from them.


-Steven
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 29, 2020, 08:14:54 PM
Bob, Steven and Steve, thanks so much for following and for the supportive comments.  I am enjoying building this kit and happy to provide pictures of my progress.

Today I began rigging the chutes.  Since I previously drilled holes in all the parts, I was hopeful it would go pretty effortlessly.  I can say, after rigging one chute, it went well, but not without effort!

Below are eight of the ten ball weights with the thread "cable" attached.  I threaded each at the top and began by tying a double knot.  After two successes in about 20 minutes, decided that a single knot with a drop of ACC to hold it would be sufficient.  All are drying below, prior to using ACC to attach a length of chain at the bottom of each.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290720195901-45205929.jpeg)

In cutting the chain to specifications, I was surprised to run considerably short of chain by about 5 inches.  I'm sure I did not waste any elsewhere.  Regardless, I substituted some chain I had in my parts box, although it is not as fine.

Rigging the chutes was pretty much as difficult as I imagined, although they did come out well.  Per George's instructions, you thread the loose end up behind the pulley and over the top, running it down to the end of the side of the chute, where you glue it in place.  Getting it up through the pulley required two sets of tweezers--one to feed it up through they pulley, and the other pair to grab it from where it poked up and pull it through.  That part was easier than getting the end into the hole at the end of the chute.  On each chute, I was successful in getting the first one through, and then securing it with a drop of ACC, but try as I might, was unsuccessful in threading the second one through at the chute end.  I ended up just placing a drop of ACC in the hole and holding the end of the thread against the hole with a toothpick until it set. In the end, this worked.

Below is a shot of the "back" side of the tower with both chutes rigged.  You can fairly easily spot the more course chain I had to substitute, but with some paint, I should be able to minimize it.  Also, this side will be less easily seen as it will not face the viewer.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-290720195902-452181815.jpeg)

Having spent quite a bit of time getting this side rigged, I decided to leave the front for tomorrow.

--Opa George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 29, 2020, 08:49:08 PM
Looks great George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 31, 2020, 03:24:19 PM
Thanks, Curt!

Yesterday and today I hung the chutes on the front and worked more on the rigging and finishing details on the tower itself.  I had a little more trouble getting the front chutes successfully hung--it seemed the thread "cables" were not in a cooperative mood.  But being the more stubborn one in the operation, I finally won out and got them on.

Because they caused me so much trouble getting them in place, I decided to position them in a permanent attitude, rather then making them movable.  A few dots of glue at the pulleys accomplished that. Next came the additional rigging, which just took patience.  Again, I found ACC to be my glue of choice to help the thread "cable" grab the castings and wood.

Below are a few shots of the successfully rigged chutes:
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720144831-452231794.jpeg)

You'll notice some of the cables have unnatural twists and turns, rather than hanging naturally.  I was able to eventually work most of that out.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720144831-45241596.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720144831-452422043.jpeg)

I had avoided installing the work light shades until almost done because I knew I would knock them off in handling the structure. But now with the rigging finished, it was time to get them done.   The shade castings had tops shaped like a candy kiss, with no natural spot for the wire hangers to grab on.  So I began by filing the tops flat.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720144831-452431604.jpeg)

That gave me a workable surface to use my twist drill to make holes for the wire hanger.  Although the photo below is out of focus, you can see a dimple on the top of each shade--just deep enough for the wire to grab.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720144831-45244338.jpeg)

I like a gooseneck shape instead of a simple 90 degree bend, but the wire supplied in the kit kept breaking instead of bending when I tried to create the arc, so I used some spare fine wire.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145021-452451331.jpeg)

With the lamps and a few final castings installed, there wasn't much left to do but apply some final weathering in the form of an additional A&I wash over the metal castings (doors, pulleys, chutes, electrical box, motor) and when dry, apply some weathering chalks to finish, mostly rust, gray and black.

Below are some shots of the finished tower.  If I can get some decent sun outside, I will take it outdoors later for a few highly lit shots.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145021-452462414.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145021-452471012.jpeg)

I like this shot--it shows off the rather intricate rigging, which is a real feature of the kit.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145021-45248854.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145021-45249447.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145116-452501668.jpeg)

I like this shot, as it shows off the bracing underneath, above the delivery track.  You can see I also decided to add that ground level entrance door. I used a tichy door from my stock. It is a panel door rather than the more practical wooden industrial doors above it. My explanation is that the original was damaged by a careless worker and this is the replacement.  I also felt that workers would appreciate a few handgrabs at the top of the ladder--I know I would have--so I added four at strategic places to help them get from the ladder to the platform and back down again.
(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720145116-45251154.jpeg)

I have the machinery and sand house to finish off this kit.  Will begin that later this weekend.

--Opa George

Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on July 31, 2020, 04:00:28 PM
Wow, the sun came out.  Here are some pics in natural light.

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155624-452521404.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155624-452537.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155624-452541253.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155625-452551018.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155625-452562289.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155707-452572013.jpeg)

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/779-310720155707-45258782.jpeg)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PRR Modeler on July 31, 2020, 04:10:44 PM
Looks incredible George. Beautiful job.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: deemery on July 31, 2020, 04:20:30 PM
I remember hanging those weights on my FSM 155 old time dock.  They were definitely a challenge...


dave
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: PaulS on July 31, 2020, 07:33:59 PM
Outstanding George !!   what a beautiful model of this Coal Tower you have produced.


And the pictures out in the natural light really bring out the coloring, shingles and all the elements you have put into this build !!
Excellent and I have enjoyed following along.
Thanks for sharing with us and enjoy,
Be well and stay safe,
--Paul
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: WigWag Workshop on August 01, 2020, 06:44:25 AM
An epic build for sure! I appreciate you sharing how you did the lamps.  The variation of weathering in the boards, is outstanding.


-Steven
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ACL1504 on August 01, 2020, 07:27:31 AM
George,

Very well done for sure. The natural light changes the entire look. When I did mine, the chutes were the challenge also.

Tom  ;D
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: jerryrbeach on August 01, 2020, 07:51:11 AM
George,


Simply stunning modeling!  So much detail and such subtle weathering to bring out the best in the build. Kudos!
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: GPdemayo on August 01, 2020, 10:07:37 AM
Excellent job George.....like the angle flashing you added for the roof.....it is a detail most modelers overlook in their builds.  8)
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: ReadingBob on August 01, 2020, 11:28:01 AM
Outstanding build!    :D  :D  :D
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: sdrees on August 01, 2020, 11:55:32 AM
This is an awesome build George!
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: postalkarl on August 01, 2020, 04:56:01 PM
Hey George:

All I can saw Wowie. Very very very nicely done.

Karl
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on August 01, 2020, 07:50:56 PM
Fantastic build George.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on August 01, 2020, 10:15:51 PM
Beautiful work, George!

What an eye catcher you have created there!  I think the grab irons at the top of the ladder were a great idea.  The photos in natural light show off your skill very nicely.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: vinceg on August 09, 2020, 01:06:48 PM
Everybody said already, but tremendous job, George. Especially in the sun -- that coloring and sharp shadow lines all make for a killer photo.
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on August 10, 2020, 07:23:53 AM
Quote from: PaulS on July 31, 2020, 07:33:59 PM
Outstanding George !!   what a beautiful model of this Coal Tower you have produced.

And the pictures out in the natural light really bring out the coloring, shingles and all the elements you have put into this build !!
Excellent and I have enjoyed following along.
Thanks for sharing with us and enjoy,
Be well and stay safe,
--Paul

Thanks so much, Paul, for all of your support.  I am delaying the sand house portion of the kit until I get my layout re-vamped. I am re-doing it so my grandsons can operate trains with me.  I should be back up and running trains well before the winter holidays and will post pics of the new engine facilities, highlighted by this exquisite kit.

--George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Opa George on August 10, 2020, 07:28:41 AM
Thanks, everyone, for following along and all the supportive comments along the way. 

This kit also includes a machinery and sand storage building, which is a mini-gem in itself.  As I noted elsewhere, I am delaying that until I get my layout re-worked. 

So for now, the gandy dancers are removing old mainlines to make way for the new right-of-way.

--Opa  George
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: Zephyrus52246 on August 10, 2020, 07:36:25 AM
Wonderful work.  Beautifully detailed structure.  Looking forward to seeing you build your new layout.


Jeff
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: NKP768 on August 10, 2020, 07:54:12 AM
Beautiful job George - great thread!
Doug
Title: Re: FSM #145 Coal Tower
Post by: S&S RR on August 10, 2020, 08:30:12 AM
Great looking build George. I will also be looking forward to watching your next layout come together.