PFM / Toby 1500 question

Which numbers of the prototype 1500's are the unmodified PFM brass models closest to? Was there ever a real 1500 class with no disc driver, tanks on top, and a small smokebox door, or does something have to be done to the PFM model to truly make it like any of the prototypes? I have an out-of-the-box one that is has an ok paint job, but am about to have one done correctly.

Were the disc drivers a later addition to all of the 1500 class locomotives?

Finally, does anyone have good cab interior photos that they are willing to share? I've looked google and the forum over and found a few partial photos, but not anything sufficient for creating a cab interior.

Thanks,

Paul Moore

 

The Frisco purchased 30, 1500-class locomotives from Baldwin. They may be divided into 3 groups:
1500-1514; blt 1923; Baker valve gear; small smoke box door. Later during their careers, the 1501,1503, 1506, 1510, 1511, and 1512 received large smoke box doors.
1515-1519; blt 1925; Walschaert valve gear; large smoke box door, top/mounted air reservoir
1520-1529; blt 1926; Walschaert valve gear; small smoke box door, top-mounted air reservoirs (the PFM model).

I will post the diagrams later.

The Scullin disc-centered, main driver was an after-market affectation.
The 1520 and the 4208 collided at Quincy, MS on 2/16/39. The 1520 received a "new" tender, and the 4208 received new valve gear. "After" pics of the 1520 may be seen at the Archive.

 

Absolutely awesome information. Thanks so much. So, 1522 AS BUILT would work as one to model without major modifications.

 

As-built, the 1500's had the "full window" treatment. See http://frisco.org/mainline/wp-conte...-date-and-location-unknown-photog-unk-BLW.jpg These windows were removed during the late 30's. Another add by the Frisco was a running gear inspection "step". These were removed by the 40's. Another Frisco add was the Volatone chime, air horns. These too were removed by the late 30's.
http://www.frisco.org/shipit/index.php?threads/1502-in-1929.876/#post-5403

To your question, the 1522 would be a good choice for an out of the box PFM model.

 

Ken you are right... was looking at the wrong diagram

 

So I'll model 1522 in the late 30's. Thanks.

 

Thanks for the 1937 photo, Don. It's a huge help.

Today I bought the PFM / Toby model off of ebay. This is the first model that I've attempted to make close to a particular prototype number in a certain period. I'm pretty excited about it. Therefore, all the questions.

Does anyone have any photos of the cab interior of 1522...or any of the 1500 class 4-8-2s? I've got a few partials, but I'd like some better ones, if I can find them.

Two color questions: Would the cab roof between the drip rails be signal red or red oxide?

What color did Frisco paint their cab interiors? Many railroads painted the interiors a green color, but I have no idea what Frisco did.

As much as I enjoy modeling, painting and soldering are the two things that still elude me as far as skills. In the past I've painted several steamers and diesels, but that's just not my skill set and not what I enjoy. A friend is spectacular at it. I pay him just like everyone else does, and it's well worth it. Attached are a handful of photos of models he's painted for me in the past. He scratch built the C&O 2-6-6-6 Allegheny and the PRR K4. I decided to focus on the Frisco, D&RGW and Mopac, and sold everything else.

Again, thanks to all of you for your help.

 

Thanks, Keith.

Paul Moore

 

Thanks to everyone for their input. Last week I bought a PFM 1500 class 4-8-2 on ebay. It is now in the hands of my friend who will make the modifications and paint it. It will be awhile before it's done, but I'm excited about it.

Paul Moore