@luvindemtrains posted:Good Evening Guys and Gals,
I think as I modify more locomotives I will leave the handrails as is. I guess it will depend on the model. The problem on this unit is once you extend the handrails there is no plastic to drill a hole for the bottom section of it to go into, only metal. I don't think I can get away with drilling that small of a hole with a pin vice. I will secure them with CA or something of the like but it will still be prone to being undone if you look at it funny.
Dave
Dave
On the real locomotives the handrails are attached to the outside sides of the steps using brackets just like a grab iron. You can simulate this as Joe does, or do the following, which you might find a little less work and require less precision:
Bend the handrails in towards the steps at the height you want you handrails to end. At the side of the steps, bend the handrails parallel to the rails and the locomotive axis. The bend is inwards towards the sides. Drill a small hole in the sides. yes they are (probably) metal, but its not that difficult to drill because the sides are flat, and much larger than the hole. Insert the handrail into the hole. Use a small drop of CA, or better yet, JB Kwik Weld to secure the handrail. When the glue sets, nip off the part of the handrail that protrudes inside the sides.
You can look on line and see how the big boys do it. (I don't have any of my own photos to post!)
Here is a photo of what I typically do:
Yes, I know. Its not 3 rail scale 
