Painting Classic Passenger Cars

[up148]

Dan did a 10 car Wasatch set for me between 2021-24 and his illness was in the middle of that time which added over a year to the process......it was really touch and go for at least a couple of months and it took him 3-4 months of convalescing before he was able to do any work. But, the cars came out wonderful.

It is easy to spot Dan's cars as he does little details (window outlining, car numbers, end painting details, etc.) that really add to the overall look. I sold the set including some KEY E units in 2025 to a modeler in California who had recently converted to O scale. Worked out great for both of us.

[up148]

Just confirmed with a friend in the Chicago area who runs with Dan and he didn't know anything, so I expect it's just a rumor.

[texas&pacific]

Bob,
What fine-line pens do you use exactly (brand and size)? Do they fill with ink or paint?
Thanks
Jorge

[bob turner]

There are several kinds - Deco Color extra fine line, and Pilot are two I have. I took a photo, but forgot I have to host them on Shutterfly to reproduce here.

Give them a try - as I recall, if you make a mistake you can quickly wipe it off a glossy finish and start over. I haven't done that very often.

Buy from Amazon, or a stationery store.

I have used a ruling pen and water based model paint. I get extraordinary results with really fine black outlines around one of these pen lines. Check out my Daylight Pacific or Mountain. See pp. 1 & 2 on my Southern Pacific Steam 2023 thread.

[Dennis Holler]

I'm gradually building a pile of smooth side Exacta cars I would like to paint in maybe GM&O or something similar and the other which Bob's PRR car inspires are a group of Alexander stream line Aluminum PRR Fleet of Modernism cars. Would like to do those at some point but I seem to be incredibly slow at getting things done lately! If nothing else, they will be around if and when I get around to them!

SO I will be happy to see what ever you fellas paint up cause I sure need some inspiration!