Chris, I have this engine stored away. I still love my NH stuff. But have now moved towards modeling the Rutland. I’m never going to see a Rutland 4-8-2 from a manufacture. Weaver was probably my last hope. I looked at it and about the only thing close is the wheel arrangement. Such a good well made runner with a Pittman shouldn’t reside under the layout.
You have given me hope. The best way to study an engine when the only thing available is old black and white photos of dirty engines. Is to find pictures of unpainted HO brass one’s to study. You can clearly see the details when you zoom in. I’ve learned to live with not totally correct engines. As long as I can get some of it right as in certain details. They will be good enough. Your retrofitted trailing truck is just what I need. Looks dead on. The air pumps on the pilot. I’ve been looking at pictures and what Lionel offers. The Niagara’s look close enough. They have a screen between the 2 shields that’s looks exactly like the Rutland. I think I’m going to order up some parts and see where it goes. I have enough projects but this one will be #1. I’m not even going to wait for the half price sale.
