I don't particularly like hacking around with brand new models. However with a source of rejected Bachmann EWS VDA bodies, there was an opportunity, without irreversibly damaging a new model, to create an REA Tube barrier vehicle used for stock transfers for refurbishment or scrap moves (or in my case a railway centre transfer with a preserved silver 4-car '59 stock (not shown)!). During the 1990s EWS liveried REAs were used on on Northern Line Scrap runs so the use of EWS livery vans is prototypical. I also remember seeing a pair of REAs at the Midland Railway Centre while they were doing some contract work on the LU Asset Inspection Train in 2009; I cannot find any pictures online of them at the MRC however. While the internet has various open wagons used for 1960s/1970s movements of EFE 1938 stock, I have yet to see VDAs modified on model form.

My (justification) for livery
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholasy/5439563468/sizes/l
and some more examples here
https://ukrailwaypics.smugmug.com/UKRailRollingstock/R-Tops-codes/REA-Tube-stock-coupler/

And the details of the translator vans:
http://paulbartlett.zenfolio.com/paulbartlettsrailwaywagonphotographs/h3820b288#h3820b288

The aim was to modify the VDA van to operate with an EFE tube train, AND, after shunting, and with minimal/no removal of vehicles from track, allow the two REAs to be coupled together for movement as a solo pair of translator vehicles.

Effectively two sets of coupling translations would occur. NEM tension lock on the outer ends (my standard loco-stock coupling), 'Roco style' R8220 couplings on the inner ends of the REA, connecting to some sort of bar/loop arrangement to hook onto the EFE tube stock... The two REAs could then couple together using the 'Roco' style couplers.

An evening of real, mind clearing, modelling and much trial and error began...

The following blog post charts the conversion of the first REA, much finishing still to do, and the second to be converted at a future time.

Starting point, two EWS VDA (printed VBA in error) bodyshells, and two chassis (I cheated in this picture, its taken at the end of the evening, with one van still in box, one converted, and one unconverted spare body!).

The metal buffers were pulled out, and the shanks gradually cut off

Finally carefully finished flush with the buffer beam. Note the hole from the buffer, prototypically still present, and I have pressed buffer shank bolt holes into the plastic. Donor VDA van in background.
Some sort of representation of the welded(?) bracket for the tube stock coupling will need to be fitted once running clearances are established

A R8220 coupling was used as the basis of the conversion, one being trimmed in length and height to partly fit in the slot vacated by the moulded EFE Wedgelock coupler. The other had a slight reduction at its far end to fit under the 'centre buffer' of the D end tube stock car. A piece of plasticard forms the final element of the coupling, with a hole to fit the hook on the EFE bogie, and another hole for screwing to the much trimmed R8220 Hornby coupler (small crosshead screw that used to secure 'fixed' couplings on replacement Bachmann Mk1 bogies - great source of free small screws!). This bar will need to be strengthened for serious use probably with slightly thicker plasticard. Much trial and error was needed to get the length right. the one pictured was too short...!

The REA starting to look the part

Coupled to an EFE tube car

Details of the coupling arrangement. I am not happy with the gap. There will be some compromise due to my desire to have the two REAs couple together as well, but using a Roco rather than Hornby 'Roco style' coupling will reduce the gap a little. I need to purchase some of the former... (pack of 5 or pack of 50???!)