Modelling VIA F40PH-2 #6415 (GMDD 1986)...

This web page shows what I did to upgrade the Walthers model of VIA 6415. I did not modify the underframe (except I did detail the truck sideframes) nor did I relocate the side engine access door. I did everything else though.

Now I realize that folks out there will prefer the Kato or Overland versions for an accurate and smooth-running VIA unit. And the Kato, while a dash-2, is still based upon an American prototype which looks nothing like our VIA units. Admittedly the Walthers model I used has the same shortfall. So if the model needs major modifications one way or another, may as well start with the cheaper version. Plus Walthers did fairly well on the paint job for the original VIA scheme.

Remember that I did not change the sideframes, relocate the side engine access door or re-make the underframe of the unit. I also did not change the cab access steps. I may in time choose to make those modifications. Anyone out there with experience doing so? 6415 was modelled to reflect its appearance in 1989.

Let's get started!

Complete rebuild of front pilot...

  • replace Walthers plow with Juneco C29 pilot
  • add ditch lights and MV lenses
  • build MU housings from styrene and apply
  • add MU receptacles according to prototype photos, same configuration front and back
  • add MU hoses and train air line hose
  • fashion distinctive coupler lift bars from wire or start from DA SY2205
  • rear pilot does not have the Juneco part added but all other details are the same


The entire roofline needs to be redone...

  • remove all incorrect details on cab roof
  • fill in the horn gap with body putty
  • add only one Sinclair antenna to cab roof (two if modelling post-1997)
  • replace older style exhaust stack with a post-1980 quiet version (MBE part)
  • replace dynamic brake fan with a more modern, taller design
  • new horn (MBE part)
  • completely remove 3rd fan from the rear and add MBE winterization hatch
  • replace the remaining two fans with Overland quiet fans
  • add MU hoses and train air line hose



Rest of body...

  • apply grab irons and railings according to prototype
  • add eye pins to roof
  • paint front headlight casting black or silver according to prototype
  • shape railings for cab and engine access doors as well as for rear steps
  • change dual backup light to a single type
  • add MU plugs to either side of back up light
  • do paint touch ups on all areas of the engine where new parts have been added etc
  • the VIA logo on the nose is the incorrect BLUE colour from Walthers. This logo needs to be black. I removed the old logo with comet and toothpick and applied replacement logo from CDS lettering set for VIA F40PH-2.
  • add "GPA-30a" sublettering to cab under the numbers
  • add decals to the front numberboards, from the Microscale VIA loco set
  • paint the window frames silver
  • add sunshades (mine are in the closed position because otherwise they will break off in storage)
  • add wind deflectors/mirrors
  • add windshield wipers
  • add grab irons below numberboards
  • add class lights after drilling holes for their location according to prototype photos. I used Juneco jewels.
  • add round vents to top of nose in the two outer corners
  • assemble Kadee #5 couplers in their boxes and then file down so they'll fit in the slot. Also check fit against a coupler height gauge. Discard the factory coupler boxes.

Underframe...


A good time to check motor and gears for lubrication needs is when the shell is off the frame, so please do so now.

  • Replace stock journal box covers with MBE #B22 exposed bearings
  • Extreme FL journal gets a speed recorder (DA TK2807 or 2808)
  • Add rerail frogs and paint yellow, check pre-1999 prototype photos for correct location as they were mounted in a different location on each side of the unit.

Prototype info:


6400-36 were traditionally assigned to the east and 6437-58 to points west of Toronto. 6438, 6439, 6448-6458 documented on lease to CP Rail in 1994-95. Used mainly between Montreal and Toronto due to limited fuel tank capacity. Units 6401, 6402, 6453, 6455 and 6457 leased to Montreal commuter agency at various times during the 1990s and 2000s. Since the start of CAD rebuilds in 2007, many low-number eastern units have been observed on trains 1, 2, 5 and 6.

Here is a very good report on the 2007-08 CAD contract to overhaul the entire VIA F40PH-2 fleet. The "trial" unit #6400 was upgraded in 2006 and the first batch after project approval included units 6402, 6443, 6452, 6454 and 6457.
http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/001/index.htm

 

© updated 8-4-08.

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