Workbench EXPERT MODELLERS SHOW YOU HOW
GEORGE’S TOP TIPS FOR
George Dent tackles a trio of Hornby TTA tank wagons, explaining his tried-and-trusted methods for creating a lifelike, work-stained finish.
Oil tank wagons provide a wonderful weathering opportunity, especially those from the later British Rail period, which were often seen with layers of grime and vertical streaks caused by repeated spillages from overhead loading equipment.
When Hornby’s new TTAs arrived for review (MR322), I couldn’t wait to shunt them onto my weathering workbench and decided to treat them to a layered approach for maximum realism.
The following demonstration features techniques I’ve been using on tank wagons for the past decade or so, tweaked a little between wagons to ensure that no two vehicles look the same. Anyone who has attended one of my rolling stock weathering classes in the past may recognise the approach, as I find tank wagons are by far the best wagon on which to practise a range of techniques, especially when wielding an airbrush.
OO GAUGE MODEL Hornby R60207/8/9 TTA tank wagons ◆ Price £34.99 each AVAILABILITY Hornby stockists Web: www.hornby.com 6 hrs
Indeed, following the complex curved profile of a tank barrel, while emitting an even flow of paint at a consistent distance, is great for practising airbrush control and wrist movement.
During those classes, I would provide Hornby RailRoad TTAs for students to work on, which can be picked up cheaply second ‐hand. I’d certainly recommend practising on something like that initially, moving on to a more refined Hornby or Bachmann model once you’ve built some extra confidence.
The processes are equally suitable to other similar wagons, including bogie tanks, with a quick study of prototype images beforehand being highly recommended. Over the years, certain operators have tended to keep their wagon fleets cleaner than others, and certain commodities are more prone to leaving heavy staining.
I must warn readers that weathering tank wagons can quickly become addictive, especially once you have honed your skills. For all the weathered TTAs now in my collection, I really ought to model an oil depot or refinery scene!
STEP BY STEP
