Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956

[NW Modeling List]

There is no plastic, ready to run, HO model of an N&W RS-3 that is correct for N&W as far as I know.  As Jim Nichols mentions, the cab on the N&W RS-3 units was very similar, if not the same as the cab on the RS-11 units.  



You need the Phase 3 body from Stewart; the walkway/sill from Atlas would probably work; the Atlas RS-11 cab is a good place to start; I'm not certain if the fuel tank/tool box is different from other RS-3 units; additionally, the N&W RS-3s were equipped with dynamic brakes which were located in the short hood.  There is no commercial part that I know of to replicate the dynamic brakes. 



Of course, unless it has rusted to dust, there is a real N&W RS-3 at the Virginia Transporation Museum that could be studied and photographed; I'm not certain what other information may be available in the Society's archives. 



If anyone ever builds an accurate model for the N&W RS-3s, please consider writing an article about your efforts for The Arrow. 



Jim Brewer 


----- Original Message -----


From: "NW Modeling List" <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org> 
To: "NW Modeling List" <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org> 
Sent: Monday, September 19, 2011 5:38:50 PM 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 



If you are modeling the N&W RS-3's, you need to know that the cab differences were not just window arrangement. Because of the dual controls the cab on the N&W units was a little longer than standard. It appears to have been the same dimensions as the cab on an RS-11. Naturally, this means a slight adjustment in the handrails as well. All in all this is a more complicated modeling project than it first appears to be. Good luck.  
 Jim Nichols 




From: NW Modeling List <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org> 
To: NW Modeling List <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org> 
Sent: Mon, September 19, 2011 3:10:57 PM 
Subject: RE: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 




I may be wrong but I recollect it was the Durham Line the RS-3’s were first assigned to.  In the end they were assigned to locations like Norfolk and Sandusky. 

  

Ed Painter Narrows, VA living in Russellville, AR 

  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 19, 2011 1:55 PM 
To: 'NW Modeling List' 
Subject: RE: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

They were used on the Peavine in the 1956-57 time period, too.  Gary Rolih, Cincinnati 

  


From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2011 1:01 PM 
To: NW Modeling List 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

The RS3s supposedly were originally assigned as a group to the Winston-Salem to Roanoke line.  However, there is a picture on page 274 of Mason Cooper's new book on the POCAHONTAS DIV published by our society showing an eastbound coal train with three ALCO RS11s and one RS3 at Big Four, WV on the "POKY" on May 10, 1956. The lead unit, at least is still in the black steam era colors and lettering.  Don't know if this was an unusual occurrence but i have seen other pictures of RS3s which had wandered off from the Winston-Salem line.  


On Wed, Sep 14, 2011 at 7:45 PM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Where were they assigned? 


  


Philip Taylor 
Never assume that the way it is now is the way it has always been 
http://acwrr.blogspot.com 





From: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
To: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 11:23 AM 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


To add to this, since the RS3s were delivered with dual controls, the cab window arrangement is different than on "stock" phase III RS3s.  Check pictures and maybe use an extra shell of any phase model to modify the cab sides. 


On Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 10:45 AM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Neither the Atlas or Athearn RS-3 models are made with Phase-III carbodies.  Stewart made HO RS-3’s with Phase–III carbodies.  Finding a Stewart shell may take a bit of effort but through internet searches you will likely find one over time.  I did a search and found one that had already sold so they are out there.  I’d also caution you to look at the cab window size, the stack orientation, and short hood details.  The RS-3’s bought new by the N&W had dynamic brakes which effected the location of the number boards and added addition detail to the short hood.  Looking at pictures of the 3 sides and top of the short hood will show these details.  As for the early N&W diesel lettering, I don’t know of and decals produced to specifically address this scheme.  My suggestion, since the lettering was the same style and gold color used on stream locomotives would be to investigate the various decal sets made for N&W steam locomotives and see if you can find a size match.  The Microscale set includes different sizes of lettering.    


  


Ed Painter – Narrows, VA living in Russellville, AR      


  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org ] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 8:27 PM 
To: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org 
Subject: Modelling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


  


Hi all, 



  



I've always been fond of RS-3s and upon realizing quickly that the N&W acquired eight of them as their first diesels in 1955 I've decided I'd like to investigate modelling them in HO-scale.  



  



First off, I've not found any models painted in the as-delivered paint scheme which I understand is all-over black with Dulux gold lettering yes? I know they were originally numbered 92-99 then renumbered 300-307 in 1956.  



  



Of those created by Athearn/MDC, Atlas and Bachmann which would be closest to a Phase-III unit? if I cannot acquire a Phase III unit I'll use whatever's the best stand-in. Can anyone recommend a good decal set? I understand the steam engine decals might be a good choice but wanted to get a second opinion.  



  



Thank you in advance 



Alvie Hearren 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
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-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 


________________________________________ 
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________________________________________ 
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To change your subscription go to 
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Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
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-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 



No virus found in this message. 
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com 
Version: 10.0.1410 / Virus Database: 1520/3900 - Release Date: 09/16/11 VA living in Russellville, AR 



  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 19, 2011 1:55 PM 
To: 'NW Modeling List' 
Subject: RE: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

They were used on the Peavine in the 1956-57 time period, too.  Gary Rolih, Cincinnati 

  


From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2011 1:01 PM 
To: NW Modeling List 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

The RS3s supposedly were originally assigned as a group to the Winston-Salem to Roanoke line.  However, there is a picture on page 274 of Mason Cooper's new book on the POCAHONTAS DIV published by our society showing an eastbound coal train with three ALCO RS11s and one RS3 at Big Four, WV on the "POKY" on May 10, 1956. The lead unit, at least is still in the black steam era colors and lettering.  Don't know if this was an unusual occurrence but i have seen other pictures of RS3s which had wandered off from the Winston-Salem line.  


On Wed, Sep 14, 2011 at 7:45 PM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Where were they assigned? 


  


Philip Taylor 
Never assume that the way it is now is the way it has always been 
http://acwrr.blogspot.com 





From: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
To: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 11:23 AM 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


To add to this, since the RS3s were delivered with dual controls, the cab window arrangement is different than on "stock" phase III RS3s.  Check pictures and maybe use an extra shell of any phase model to modify the cab sides. 


On Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 10:45 AM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Neither the Atlas or Athearn RS-3 models are made with Phase-III carbodies.  Stewart made HO RS-3’s with Phase–III carbodies.  Finding a Stewart shell may take a bit of effort but through internet searches you will likely find one over time.  I did a search and found one that had already sold so they are out there.  I’d also caution you to look at the cab window size, the stack orientation, and short hood details.  The RS-3’s bought new by the N&W had dynamic brakes which effected the location of the number boards and added addition detail to the short hood.  Looking at pictures of the 3 sides and top of the short hood will show these details.  As for the early N&W diesel lettering, I don’t know of and decals produced to specifically address this scheme.  My suggestion, since the lettering was the same style and gold color used on stream locomotives would be to investigate the various decal sets made for N&W steam locomotives and see if you can find a size match.  The Microscale set includes different sizes of lettering.    


  


Ed Painter – Narrows, VA living in Russellville, AR      


  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org ] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 8:27 PM 
To: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org 
Subject: Modelling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


  


Hi all, 



  



I've always been fond of RS-3s and upon realizing quickly that the N&W acquired eight of them as their first diesels in 1955 I've decided I'd like to investigate modelling them in HO-scale.  



  



First off, I've not found any models painted in the as-delivered paint scheme which I understand is all-over black with Dulux gold lettering yes? I know they were originally numbered 92-99 then renumbered 300-307 in 1956.  



  



Of those created by Athearn/MDC, Atlas and Bachmann which would be closest to a Phase-III unit? if I cannot acquire a Phase III unit I'll use whatever's the best stand-in. Can anyone recommend a good decal set? I understand the steam engine decals might be a good choice but wanted to get a second opinion.  



  



Thank you in advance 



Alvie Hearren 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 



No virus found in this message. 
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com 
Version: 10.0.1410 / Virus Database: 1520/3900 - Release Date: 09/16/11 Russellville, AR 



  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 19, 2011 1:55 PM 
To: 'NW Modeling List' 
Subject: RE: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

They were used on the Peavine in the 1956-57 time period, too.  Gary Rolih, Cincinnati 

  


From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto:nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2011 1:01 PM 
To: NW Modeling List 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 

  

The RS3s supposedly were originally assigned as a group to the Winston-Salem to Roanoke line.  However, there is a picture on page 274 of Mason Cooper's new book on the POCAHONTAS DIV published by our society showing an eastbound coal train with three ALCO RS11s and one RS3 at Big Four, WV on the "POKY" on May 10, 1956. The lead unit, at least is still in the black steam era colors and lettering.  Don't know if this was an unusual occurrence but i have seen other pictures of RS3s which had wandered off from the Winston-Salem line.  


On Wed, Sep 14, 2011 at 7:45 PM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Where were they assigned? 


  


Philip Taylor 
Never assume that the way it is now is the way it has always been 
http://acwrr.blogspot.com 





From: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
To: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 11:23 AM 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


To add to this, since the RS3s were delivered with dual controls, the cab window arrangement is different than on "stock" phase III RS3s.  Check pictures and maybe use an extra shell of any phase model to modify the cab sides. 


On Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 10:45 AM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Neither the Atlas or Athearn RS-3 models are made with Phase-III carbodies.  Stewart made HO RS-3’s with Phase–III carbodies.  Finding a Stewart shell may take a bit of effort but through internet searches you will likely find one over time.  I did a search and found one that had already sold so they are out there.  I’d also caution you to look at the cab window size, the stack orientation, and short hood details.  The RS-3’s bought new by the N&W had dynamic brakes which effected the location of the number boards and added addition detail to the short hood.  Looking at pictures of the 3 sides and top of the short hood will show these details.  As for the early N&W diesel lettering, I don’t know of and decals produced to specifically address this scheme.  My suggestion, since the lettering was the same style and gold color used on stream locomotives would be to investigate the various decal sets made for N&W steam locomotives and see if you can find a size match.  The Microscale set includes different sizes of lettering.    


  


Ed Painter – Narrows, VA living in Russellville, AR      


  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org ] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 8:27 PM 
To: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org 
Subject: Modelling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


  


Hi all, 



  



I've always been fond of RS-3s and upon realizing quickly that the N&W acquired eight of them as their first diesels in 1955 I've decided I'd like to investigate modelling them in HO-scale.  



  



First off, I've not found any models painted in the as-delivered paint scheme which I understand is all-over black with Dulux gold lettering yes? I know they were originally numbered 92-99 then renumbered 300-307 in 1956.  



  



Of those created by Athearn/MDC, Atlas and Bachmann which would be closest to a Phase-III unit? if I cannot acquire a Phase III unit I'll use whatever's the best stand-in. Can anyone recommend a good decal set? I understand the steam engine decals might be a good choice but wanted to get a second opinion.  



  



Thank you in advance 



Alvie Hearren 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 



No virus found in this message. 
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com 
Version: 10.0.1410 / Virus Database: 1520/3900 - Release Date: 09/16/11 WV on the "POKY" on May 10, 1956. The lead unit, at least is still in the black steam era colors and lettering.  Don't know if this was an unusual occurrence but i have seen other pictures of RS3s which had wandered off from the Winston-Salem line.  




On Wed, Sep 14, 2011 at 7:45 PM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Where were they assigned? 


  


Philip Taylor 
Never assume that the way it is now is the way it has always been 
http://acwrr.blogspot.com/ 





From: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
To: NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > 
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 11:23 AM 
Subject: Re: Modeling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


To add to this, since the RS3s were delivered with dual controls, the cab window arrangement is different than on "stock" phase III RS3s.  Check pictures and maybe use an extra shell of any phase model to modify the cab sides. 


On Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 10:45 AM, NW Modeling List < nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org > wrote: 




Neither the Atlas or Athearn RS-3 models are made with Phase-III carbodies.  Stewart made HO RS-3’s with Phase–III carbodies.  Finding a Stewart shell may take a bit of effort but through internet searches you will likely find one over time.  I did a search and found one that had already sold so they are out there.  I’d also caution you to look at the cab window size, the stack orientation, and short hood details.  The RS-3’s bought new by the N&W had dynamic brakes which effected the location of the number boards and added addition detail to the short hood.  Looking at pictures of the 3 sides and top of the short hood will show these details.  As for the early N&W diesel lettering, I don’t know of and decals produced to specifically address this scheme.  My suggestion, since the lettering was the same style and gold color used on stream locomotives would be to investigate the various decal sets made for N&W steam locomotives and see if you can find a size match.  The Microscale set includes different sizes of lettering.    


  


Ed Painter – Narrows, VA living in Russellville, AR      


  



From: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org [mailto: nw-modeling-list-bounces at nwhs.org ] On Behalf Of NW Modeling List 
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 8:27 PM 
To: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org 
Subject: Modelling N&W RS-3s in 1956 


  


Hi all, 



  



I've always been fond of RS-3s and upon realizing quickly that the N&W acquired eight of them as their first diesels in 1955 I've decided I'd like to investigate modelling them in HO-scale.  



  



First off, I've not found any models painted in the as-delivered paint scheme which I understand is all-over black with Dulux gold lettering yes? I know they were originally numbered 92-99 then renumbered 300-307 in 1956.  



  



Of those created by Athearn/MDC, Atlas and Bachmann which would be closest to a Phase-III unit? if I cannot acquire a Phase III unit I'll use whatever's the best stand-in. Can anyone recommend a good decal set? I understand the steam engine decals might be a good choice but wanted to get a second opinion.  



  



Thank you in advance 



Alvie Hearren 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 


________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
http://list.nwhs.org/pipermail/nw-modeling-list/ 




-- 
Dan Mulhearn 
Pipestem WV 



No virus found in this message. 
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com 
Version: 10.0.1410 / Virus Database: 1520/3900 - Release Date: 09/16/11 



________________________________________ 
NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org 
To change your subscription go to 
http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list 
Browse the NW-Modeling-List archives at 
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