Here are a few in progress photos of the Q Connection NE-10 waycar under construction. I used prototype photos instead of relying on the instructions and model photos in the instructions, as both
contain errors. One thing I didn’t catch in time is that the uncoupling levers are attached to the steps on the outside end, not the end sill as indicated by the castings and instructions. If I build any more of these cars, I’ll shave off the molded uncoupling
lever mounting hardware and mount them properly. I added window sashes, air hose brackets, ratchet and pawl for the hand brake, uncoupling lever chain, retainer valve box and conduit, and full brake detail except train line. I generally don’t model parts that
aren’t visible in operation, so no train line. The coupler box mounting pad on the castings sheet is too thin for proper coupler height. I added three Tichy plastic washers and one Kadee fiber washer to each king pin to bring the couplers up to the NMRA standard.
I substituted Kadee semi-scale coupler boxes for those provided in the kit.
Items to add include the window glazing, air hoses, couplers, trucks, marker lights, Mars lights, running boards, smoke jack, radio antenna, and toilet vents. I’ll use the Omaha orange paint scheme
with black lettering circa 1945.
Despite the sub-par quality of the castings and the errors in model photos, the kit builds up into a credible NE-10, provided you take the time to add the missing details. I’ll post photos of the
car when it’s finished.
Nelson Moyer
