First, let me begin by commending you on your ambition and (hopefully) abilities.  If you are an old hat at this then stop reading this paragraph, grab your airbrush and go make me proud.  For those of you just starting out, I have to honestly say that I haven't the slightest clue as to how to do this stuff.  So let me instead provide you with a few resources.

Pat Durand is an outstanding master craftsman.  The photos I have seen of his custom made models are hard to tell apart from the prototype.  He has even provided you with his super secret Locomotive Detailing Guide.  A guy who always has an eye for detail is Curt Fortenberry who is known to count rivets on the prototype.  If you're in need of some good advice on airbrush techniques or decal application then ask Robert Krol to give you a few pointers.  Email these people and beg them to help you out.

So, what do you need to get started?   First, pick up some Scalecoat D&H yellow and Scalecoat B&O royal blue for ARR blue and yellow.  Next, you will want to pick up the model that most closely resembles the prototype.  To complete your purchasing binge, buy the corresponding decals for your model.  Don't forget to send me photos of your finished product so I can add it to my creations page.

Additional note from Casey Durand: "The Athearn GP60 is the quickest way to a GP49 'look-alike'.  Also, for the F unit plows you take the white metal SP one, smooth the face off, take thin plastic, glue it to the face, let it sit, then trim and file to shape.  I have made several of these and they are VERY strong."

You can obtain SD70MAC 100th anniversary decals from Circus City Decals.

Thanks to Pat Durand for providing this information