The best I have in my SLSF FA folder is this one by Mike Condren headed north through Van Buren, AR on April 2, 1964: Apparently, this all-black scheme on the FB's predates the "Cigar Band" austerity scheme of the cab units, for to me the paint and lettering on both FB's portray units that have been in service quite a while. (The Cigar Band on cab units came into use in the about the same era as this picture.) FWIW: Upon my discovery of this scheme many decades ago, I referred to them as "Black Cats" to differentiate from a B unit that had retained its stripes. I haven't a clue if the Frisco crews had a nickname for them. Pretty sparse info, but at least you get a decent pic to illustrate a solid black FB.
Thanks Andre, Yessir info is kinda hard to come by on the Austerity FB1M's for sure. I cant make out the farthest numbered FB the closest looks to be 5300 retired 1966. I am wanting a number that was re-engined by EMD, I think 5310/190, 5301/191, 5303/193, 5307/197, 5309/199. The 5300/190 had the yellow stripes and shows as off the roster by 1969, most of the EMD re-engined FB's were off the roster by 1969, with the other FB's off the roster in the mid 1960's it seems, I could be wrong though.
Hi Tom: The 2nd FB, #5306, was re-powered by EMD 12/30/55. I can't read the number on the first FB even expanding the 6,000+ pixels wide original scan. However, given the shape/etc, I'm going to take a guess that it's 5309. IF it is, then it was re-powered 2/1/56. SO, if you're only wanting to model one such unit, and you want it in the all-black austerity scheme, then #5306 in the above pic will get you there. EDIT: Forgot to give you the dates they left the roster: #5306: 1/66 #5309: 9/69 Also, from zooming in on the original scan, it appears there is a tail on the last digit of the lead FB such as seen on the numeral "9". This is why I am inclined to think it's #5309.
The lettering pattern on the B unit (further right) appears to be the exact opposite side of cab body? "FRISCO" on the opposite end ?
Hi John: The lettering locations are the same for both FB's. First FB1 behind the leading cab unit is pointed rear ahead, second FB is facing front ahead. The large radiator intake (dark rectangle) is the give away. The radiator intakes are at the rear of Alco FA1/FB1's.
Thanks for the edit Andre. 5309 renumbered to 199 it is then. The old 199. John, I agree. It seems the FRISCO is towards the cooling fan (rear) on both sides. While it does seem to be all black except the lettering, there are those tiny little Scotchlight yellow stripes along the bottom sill. Thanks for the info and discussion guys.
Well, I got the FB1M re-done, here are a few images. Thinking about selling this one and a couple other f type units. Thanks for taking a look.
Sure will Ethan. Its gotten completely disassembled all the old grease cleaned out all axles replaced with Athearn ones. The factory DCC ready board is in it too.
