CP SD40M-2 #5496.

This is a kitbashed Kato SD45.

These units were rebuilt by Morrison-Knudsen in the mid-90’s, with 16-645s rated at 3,000hp.  They were rebuilt from SD45s from such noteworthy sources as Rio Grande.  They are favorites of mine due to their distinctive and stylish flared radiator sections.

This unit was a relatively straight-forward project, from a kitbashing point of view.  Having photos of specific units in the 5400-series is essential.  The detail variations can be numerous, even between units from the same source.  Rear numberboards, (or lack thereof, as on 5496,) is an example.  Horn style and placement can be different, as well.

Once again, this unit dates back to my MANY trips to Smith's Falls, Ont.  Being a crew change point for all trains between Montreal and points west, it was easy to get shots of any unit. 

Note the Flex-i-coil sideframes.  They have been modified with the brake rigging from an Athearn HTC sideframe.  Not an easy undertaking, I think the results speak for themselves.  Many units that were delivered with Flex-i-coils were soon converted to a standard arrangement.  The original placement of the brake cylinders, (between the bolster, under the sideframes,) proved to be a maintenance and reliability nightmare.

Paint is water-based Acrylic tints from Testors.  Italian Red seems to match CPR’s “Candy Apple Red” with aplomb.  Weathering was accomplished with chalks, dilute washes and dry brushing.  Light airbrushing was used for the exhaust soot.  Decals are from Microscale.