Athearn Handrails

[diburning]

I have an Athearn blue box Conrail GP40-2 that needs handrails and I want plastic ones instead of metal ones.

Will the Atlas ones fit? If not, will I have to buy a set from Athearn and then repaint them? (Athearn doesn't make the plastic ones in Conrail blue )

 

[UP2CSX]

The Atlas handrails may fit the hood but they will be all wrong for the nose. It's unlikely that either Atlas or Athearn will have replacement handrails in anything but black anyway so just plan on spraying or brush painting the handrails. It's not hard to do and is good practice.

 

[AyTrane]

Yeah, I just paint mine the color I want. It's a lot easier to paint them off the loco, but it's easier to see little flaws if they are on the engine. Plus you don't risk cracking the paint putting the handrails back on.

 

[PEIR]

Has Athearn released a CR GP38-2 with plastic handrails? If so, they should fit.

 

[wongsing]

I would also suggest maybe getting a set of plastic handrails from Athearn and doing them yourself. And, as far as the cracking the paint, there are ways around that too guys...(I was also wondering this too! ) Although I havent tried it yet, I have heard from LOTS of people its a sure-fire way! There is some sort of flexible automotive plastic primer (for car parts that seem to like to shed paint too when flexed) Anyways, look for it in your local auto parts store. I heard its safe for plastics (you would think, but I would try it on a small part first) and it comes in a spray can. It shouldn't be more than a few bucks in the auto detailing section...I will have to try this for my SD40-2 project...Athearn sent me gray plastic handrails...

Hope that helps!

-Rich

 

[UP2CSX]

Give Microscale's Micro Flat a try on handrails. It acts as a very flexible primer and gives paint a good surface bite. I've been using it for about two years and haven't seen any cracking or peeling on my handrails.