URTX 26640 Insulated Boxcar

Artwork

First, take a look at the finished reporting marks, started last week, and then at some new artwork positioned to add data.

Finished!

At the end of the day, here are the results.  Much more lettering to come, can you guess what is next, or what all the data and notes mean?

South Side

Kirk Warner and Dick Cubbage labored on the south side, where a lot more damage (than was supposed) was discovered.  Many of the bolts to hold the door track were so badly corroded they either broke off or had to be forcibly removed.  New bolts are in place ready for welding.

In the last three workdays, sometimes dodging rain showers, we have started the long process of relettering the car.

Step One

Here is the start on the reporting marks, and the pattern for the numbers.  Yes, it is not finally in position and leveled!

Step Two

The artwork has been transfered to the car and taping has started.

Step Three

The painting on the numbers has started.  On a good flat surface (this was not) the straight line edges can be painted using the tape, speeding up the process.  This is especially true since my injured arm is nowhere near 100%

Step Four

Here is the finished product of reporting marks and number.  I captioned the photos steps one to four, but of course there is much more involved.  Research the fonts, sizes, and placement of letters; do the drafting work; cut out the patterns; and transfer that to the car.  Then hope for good weather and start painting!

I bet you have no idea how much lettering is on the side of a freight car, so stay tuned.  Then we get to do the other side.  And did I mention the two ends?

Painting Siding

Painting Siding

Many flat areas in the shop were occupied as new siding for the car was primed and received a first coat of paint prior to installation, on the car, in the next few weeks.

Hardware Removal

Gerald Mc Gonigle, visiting form Arizona, was pressed into service removing a grab iron to the left of the plug door.  This will allow a properly fitted new piece of siding to be installed.

Top Rot!

Door stops and upper door track have been removed.  Note the badly rotted wood siding that was concealed behind the door track.  The plug door was a modification by General American, later in the car's life.  There must have been a better way to avoid all this deterioration that we are finding now.