FGC GP39-2 Kitbash ProjectThe purpose of this modeling project is to kitbash an Athearn GP38-2 into a GP39-2. My proto-freelanced railroad has a sizeable fleet of GP39-2's; therefore, this project is very practical and necessary.
The first step that I took was to prep the chassis and shell. Starting with the chassis, I brushed on a gel type paint thinner specifically formulated to remove epoxy paints from metal. I found this gel at the Home Depot with the help of one of their knowledgeable associates. It took three strong coats to remove most of the paint. I was able to scrape off the rest with an old X-Acto blade. I had to wear rubber gloves when working with this stuff because it is pretty caustic.
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Chassis #1
This is a view of the chassis after I stripped it and all of the cast-ons had been removed.
(Note: the shell off in the background) |
Chassis # 2
This is a view of the front end of the chassis to show removal of the cast-on end brackets. |
The Prototype
Since my railroad's predecessor is CSXT, I decided to use one of their units as the basis for my model. Lucky number 4301 won the honors . . . . . . |