Quick and Easy Coal Loads


A short while ago I picked up a set of coal gondolas for cheap. The only thing was they were unloaded. Instead of looking for coal loads that would fit these cars, I decided to make my own. To make enough loads for the seven cars only took an hour or so and was inexpensive and easy.

The materials you need are:

Tools you need:
Step 1:

Measure the length and width of the inside of the coal car. Take some foam insulation and cut a strip to fit the width of the car. Next measure and cut lengths of insulation to fit the length of the car.
Step 2:

Test fit the foam block in the car, shaving it to fit if necessary. Once you have the block test fit, trace around the block where it meets the car. This will give you a line to cut to.
Step 3:

Remove the foam from the car. Make a mark slightly above the line you drew in step 2 on each end of the block. This will give you an aim mark for cutting.
Step 4:

Using a sharp hobby knife, carefully cut the foam block from one end to the other, connecting the mark you made in step three with the line you made in step 2. You will need to do this for both sides. Don't worry about making the cut perfect, you'll clean it up in the next step. Save the top as you can use it to make another load.
Step 5:

Shave the block to get rid of any large divots. The peak should be more or less in the middle, but don't worry too much about it being perfect. Shave the ends so that they slope outwards. When doing this step, it is important to ensure that you shave off the line you drew in step 2. This will ensure that the edge of the coal load sits under the lip of the top of the car.
Step 6:

Paint the top of the foam with black paint. Use a brush and use a lot of paint as the paint will be used to hold the coal.
Step 7:

While the paint is still wet, sprinkle scale coal onto the foam. Ensure that you cover the load completely. Wait for the paint to dry.
Step 8:

Once the paint is dry, shake off any excess coal. The load is now ready to be installed into the car and sent on it's way!