Background

This is another of those projects where the end result isnt really needed, but seeing as I had all the bits I figured I may as well build it.  The body was purchased years ago intended for a High Level chassis, after finding a Bachmann chassis at a reasonable price it was an easy decision to get the loco commissioned into serviceable condition.   Finding an identity was fairly straightforward, a 74xx was a lot more useful than a 54/64xx given I dont need anything auto fitted.  So given it needed to be a Newton Abbot loco, 7427 was an easy choice.   Conversion was focused raround the bunker area, as well as removing the lip from the front of the cab and cutting off the auto working parts (which were reused on 1470).  There are a number of posts in my Steam Modelling blog detailing the work.   The original plan was for a fairly clean loco, however the paint wasnt a great match so more weathering was required to hide the joint.   Weathering as usual is a mix of Tamyia powders and Vallejo paints, I feel its missing something (other than the overly clean wheels), but cant quite put my finger on it.  Other detailing included replacing the moulded on rear lamp irons with the Finney etch, and adding a fireman (I didnt have a suitable driver).  As ever plates are from Narrow Planet (while the model came in G W R livery.)

Remaining Work

The loco still needs to be fitted with DCC, again this has a non standard decoder so I cannot use one of the Golds I have in stock.  It needs the usual Dinghams/Lamps and a driver

Usage

The main use for a pannier is the pick up goods from Newton Abbot to Plymouth (and return), which this loco will eventually share with a 57xx.  It could also step in for a 45xx on the Kingsbridge goods.