GWR Centenary stock - adding sliding vents to windows

[SteveyDee68]

I have perused all 96 pages of this forum, looking at any topic that might vaguely offer information, and have drawn a complete blank, so have had to resort to asking a new question...

 

I understand that the GWR Centenary coaches produced by Airfix feature the original window style, but would like to alter them to sliding vent types (as they were themselves altered in reality). However, nowhere can I find where anybody has done this or any trade products to assist with this.

 

I have found metal etches available of Mark I coach windows, but I imagine that the Centenary stock is a different shape...

 

Has anybody undertaken this "upgrade" and if so, how did they do it?

 

Does anybody produce etches for window surrounds and sliding vents to change the Airfix windows? (I don't want to do a replacement side, just the windows!)

 

I understand that the newer Hornby model is the same as the earlier Airfix models, other than the chassis is a half and half mix of the brake and open coach on different sides, making it incorrect for either!

 

Any help or advice gratefully received - I've got myself a little rake to sort out!

 

HOURS OF FUN!

Edited September 21, 2021 by SteveyDee68
Typo / corrected description

[Steamport Southport]

Do you mean sliding vents rather than toplights?

 

Toplights were windows above the main window like on this one and were more or less obsolete by the time these were built.

 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/camperdown/6901712218/

 

I'm afraid it's probably using the Comet sides. 

 

https://www.wizardmodels.ltd/page/1/?orderby=price-desc&s=centenary&post_type=product&title=1&excerpt=1&content=1&categories=1&attributes=1&tags=0&sku=1&ixwps=1

 

 

Jason

[BernardTPM]

Some of the Hornby BR Maroon production had the sliding vents painted onto the windows. There were no separate frames on these coaches so it would be a matter of adding the sliding frames to the glazing or using the etched sides.

[Steamport Southport]

I've never noticed those before.

 

I am still wondering whether anyone did do replacement frames that would fit. Even if they are meant for something else.

 

 

Jason

[SteveyDee68]

22 hours ago, Steamport Southport said:

Do you mean sliding vents rather than toplights?

 

Ah, yes, so I did! Thanks for correcting me!

 

Fortunately none of the posts I have looked at have mentioned those either!

 

3 hours ago, Steamport Southport said:

I am still wondering whether anyone did do replacement frames that would fit. Even if they are meant for something else.

 

That is also what I hope - especially if anyone has done it and can say "Use the X kit by Y manufacturer"!

 

I am guessing that the Centenary stock windows are not the same size as Mark I coach windows - if they are, then I have found etched windows available.

 

If all else fails, I guess I might need to talk to some etchers?!

 

OH WHAT FUN!

[Artless Bodger]

A method I've seen used to replicate sliding vent frames in windows is etched brass ladders with the requisite bits cut out, glued into place.

[exet1095]

I’ve just used bits of microstrip, painted in advance, and stuck on with canopy glue. Looks fine at 3’.

[plasticbasher]

Some of the small suppliers who do etched components might be prepared to do the etches for you if you can provide accurate dimensions / drawings /etc and they feel the components may be marketable more widely.

 

You have to accept the latter decision is theirs and theirs alone to take obviously...it's their time, effort, willingness to do prototyping until the product is "right" and stocking we are talking about here.

 

Silver Tay Models (he's on eBay) did some small pieces for me that now form part of his range of etched components.  He's a very nice chap, a genuine enthusiast and I have no connection other than as a satisfied occasional customer.

[MJI]

Only 2 models done so to get a decent rake stick Comet sides on them.

[88D]

I’ve painted sellotape cream, cut into strips and applied to windows. Looks good and has lasted years.

[SteveyDee68]

Thought I would check to see if anyone had suggested any further methods other than painting them on.

 

I did have some correspondence with a coach sides/kit manufacturer regarding custom etches but as he pointed out the etches would be thinner than the sides and therefore the best way forward (although more expensive) might be complete replacement sides.

 

What I haven’t considered is 3D printing (which could be thicker, of course) but again this is well outside my comfort zone of knowledge or experience!

 

Steve S