New Bluford Shops "Dented" Gondolas

[peteski]

Mike, I'm not disputing that the kind of bumps seeing on the model never occur in 1:1 gondolas, but to me the way they are rendered on the model just looks sort of artificial. I'm just voicing my opinion, and as you are well aware by now, I often see things differently from the majority. It is just my opinion, and I'm happy that it provoked a discussion.

[Maletrain]

How do the heavily dented models look?  The whole area between the ribs should be pressed outward, and not perfectly uniformly.

[OldEastRR]

I think daubing some irregular splashes of rust color (like on that CB&Q gon) on Peteski's "pimples" would do much to add realism to the dents. But what do the heavily dented gons look like?

[turbowhiz]

My examples will take some time to arrive, so I’ve not yet seen these in person…

The same bolster/coupler configuration is a feature of the Bluford hoppers too.  I’m guessing it’s to aid manufacturing with respect to assembling slinky couplers… a conventional separate box assembly is not possible when designing a prototypically correct ride height in many scenarios, but assembling the coupler into a model integrated post is labor intensive. The ultimate solution to the assembly problem amongst many others is a better coupler design. 

I think overall the effect really does represent a significant innovation in terms of accurately representing gondolas. It’s far better realized than any soldering iron job I’ve seen too.

That said, it can see how some might find the effect not as convincing due to some nuance in detail… part of it is matching paint damage to the dents. Combine this with some UV printed weathering like MTL does and it would make a radical difference in presentation. Another would be adding some “sharp thin” dents in combination with the rounder dents the model presents now. In photos I’ve studied you will find both, and one without the other probably contributes to the “it’s just not quite right” feeling. But I figure the paint would make the more of a difference.

I personally feel these are still an impressive innovation I’m glad to see on the market. We just need some more modern prototypes represented!

This P&LE proto match to this first run’s paint scheme matches the Bluford “heavy” dented model well in my opinion.  (So much PC goodness in this shot!)

https://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=3788907

[mu26aeh]

It will be interesting to see how these compare with Athearns Carknocker series gondolas in HO scale,

[nkalanaga]

A "better coupler design", for most modelers, would be simple:  Make  the top (floor-side) and sides of the box one piece, and the cover plate on the bottom, so the coupler could be changed without taking the entire bolster/draft gear assembly off the car!  It would still be possible to assemble it before attaching it to the car, at the factory.

[Ngineer]

Mine arrived, too. In my opinion they do look amazing and I am glad I bought them.

Another good thing is the quality of the paint. It isn't plasticky and shiny, but dull. Very realistic looking.

Cheers

Javier

[BruceStikkers]

One of our club members had samples of all three versions at the Urbana, IL Train Show last weekend and they are very impressive. The heavily dented ones have the entire area between the upright frame pieces pushed out. I like the medium dented ones but agree with the comment that some "straight thin" dents would add to the realism that I have observed. I think some weathering would probably help the dents blend in even better. I plan on purchasing some soon.

Bruce Stikkers
St. Joseph, IL

[ljudice]

Hiawatha still had Conrail cars the otherday, fyi....

[robertjohndavis]

Got mine today, a Conrail trio in light, medium and heavy dent versions. I was afraid the heavy would be overkill but it’s my favorite. As others have said, the finish on them is outstanding. Rich flat paint with perfect printing. I have a feeling more are in my future. Well worth the price. - Rob

[bbussey]

How do the heavily dented models look?  The whole area between the ribs should be pressed outward, and not perfectly uniformly.

I have two heavily-dented and I think they look great.

[nkalanaga]

turbowhiz:  I just clicked t he link you gave to the P&LE car.  Surprise!  That's the same picture I saved earlier to go with my model.

[garethashenden]

I think I'll pick up one of the Erie models when the second run comes out. Technically just out of my era, but I like the concept and I think I'll be the only person who knows its wrong.

[OldEastRR]

[mu26aeh]

OK, I finally got my gons and was shorted one. I reserved these WAY back when the first batch was announced -- WTF? Anybody else not get what they ordered? This is one of several bad events that I encountered with model train supplies. And it all started when that guy became president.

Unfortunately some shops do not get everything that they pre-ordered due to production issues, production numbers or timing of said pre orders.  It has nothing to do with who's in office, even when that guy is in office.