The signature loco for the Kyle line in the 1970s was the class 24/1. I already have one 24/1 as D5116 which was converted by Rippers (and can be seen here D5116) but I fancied doing one of my own. Having done some searching I have decided to model 24115 as it was at the end of it's working life as seen here : http://80s-and-earlier.fotopic.net/p47427012.html

The basis for my 24/1 is a standard Bachmann 24 in BR Blue plus the Brassmasters conversion parts.

First up, the domes are removed and the replacement resin headcode boxes fitted. This is tricky as the body flexes a lot with the dome removed. Next I removed the side grilles and replaced them with the 5-hole version and filled the side handholds. I've started modifying the front but this still needs some work.

Tablet catcher recesses have been cut in the cabsides, backed with plasticard with small pieces of strip plastic representing the catcher mount.

I've managed to get a quick coat of primer to show what is needed - some filling around one headcode box and the sorting of the front.

Once the filling and tidying is done I can then look at painting the body.

Andy B)