Dramatic difference! Next step - will be just as dramatic when you do the track. Very nice.
Thanks for your comments, Nick and bob2!
That is some superb craftsmanship. Well done!
Joe,
Not only does replacing the large couplers with Kadees look better, switching will improve as well. Now you'll be able to couple without seeing a lot of movement when the engine and rolling stock "collide". Under command control and BPRC I can get down to a crawl and couple without ever moving the piece of rolling stock. Watching the slack run out is kinda cool too.
Yep, the canvas roll and weathering look great 
I just got a Lionel NW-2 for 2- railing - well, it had alredy been 2-railed, but it was just one truck, and it wouldn't pull anything. I am not going to spend much time on the pilot area, but I note that it is fixed to begin with, and just needs a filler for the giant rectangular opening. My first cut was a giant block of brass - I think I shall do the other end with card stock. I promise some photos.
Bob2, be sure to keep us posted on your progress!
