Eventually the urge to recreate the NKP's coal operations in Appalachia Ohio became too irresistible. Research proved I could fill the S-4 engine gap with S and S-1 Berkshires, H-5 and H-6's Mikados that were bumped to the Wheeling by new diesels arriving elsewhere. The remaining I-3 2-6-6-2's, ex-N&W 4-8-2's and M-1 Heavy Mikados would help mark this layout as Wheeling territory as those engines never left their home rails. With this new approach to building a steam roster I could bide my time and wait for an opportunity to acquire Key Imports NKP (exW&LE) S-4's or possibly figure out a way to kitbash the Proto 2000 or Bachmann Berkshires into a S-4.
Finally this past fall, thanks to a fellow NKP modeler switching to O scale, I finally managed to add a S-4 by Key Imports to the roster. Hopefully over the years to come I can add a couple more to my fleet, but for now she's my pride and joy!
Greetings Chris ... best July 4th wishes to you and your family. I vicariously relived your "pain" as you wrote about the unavailability of a Wheeling Berk. I even contacted a custom locomotive builder but the cost became prohibitive ... I gave up ... you did not and now you have been rewarded with a signature locomotive ... congratulations! Continued best wishes as you build a great replica of an under-modeled area. Hopefully I will live long enough to see your dream fulfilled ... like i said, I am enjoying the journey "vicariously."
ReplyDeleteGlad to see I wasn't the only one that felt uneasy modeling the Wheeling with out their Berkshires. Wish I had more but happy to have one!
DeleteThat's a nice looking model and a great acquisition for your layout. I've always wanted to get a first hand review from someone with a Key Imports model as far as quality. It looks nicely detailed and well constructed from the photo. You going to paint it?
ReplyDeleteDetail quality is fantastic, the drive needs some work but so do most brass engines. I am scared to death to paint it. If I do decide to paint it, I have some other brass to hone my skills on first.
DeleteCongratulations on your acquisition Chris! It's always wonderful when we can get the "KEY" locomotive for our layout (I see what you did there – very clever :-)
ReplyDeleteAs it happens, one of the key locomotives for my layout is a Key Imports New Haven class J-1 Mikado. Thankfully (or, rather, unfortunately…) Attrition in the hobby has resulted in some of these models becoming available in recent years – so I have two in my stable now :-)
As far as running quality, I expect yours is probably the same as mine - runs great right out of the box with no additional work even though it's been sitting for well over 30 years. Of course, I'll do a clean and lube before painting it and putting it into regular service… But rest assured, at least my experience has been that key locomotives or very nicely done indeed.
Congratulations again - that engine looks absolutely beautiful!
Thanks Chris, the drive needs a little work otherwise she looks great. I can't wait to get her in service but I'll take my time and do it right.
DeleteChris
ReplyDeleteWell, you have gone further with that engine then I did in 30 years!
I don't think I ever put it on a piece of track!
Looks good, but would be better in O scale!
Jim Kehn
I can't thank you enough Jim! An O scale W&LE Berk would be an awesome thing to behold for sure!
DeleteNow that I am retired, I will have to see your & Jim's layouts. Since they are models in the area I hold close to my heart.
ReplyDeleteDenny Snyder
Once I can get to a point of things running soon, you're more than welcome to come visit!
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