I built this N Scale CNW Crandall Cab about a year ago for a guy. I started out just like the CNW by using an E unit (Kato). 

Chuck Zieler prototype photo.

The Kato E8 that I started with.

Next to an HO Scale E8 for a little size comparison.

Using plans of the Crandall Cab that I had found on line I cut the model in the correct spots. I saved the sand filler hatches out of the piece that I cut off to use later.

Then I started scratchbuilding the new hood and cab out of Evergreen Styrene.

I also built the plow out of styrene.

After a coat of yellow primer to find the spots that still needed sanding. I added the buffer plate, steps, gong bell and some BLMA E unit detail parts.

After all of the details and sanding were done I painted the model with Scalecoat II CNW yellow and green. I used Microscales decals for the unit.

The guy that I built this for wanted it weathered like the protoype but not quite as much. So this is what I ended up with and he was stoked about it.

I weathered it using a couple of different color acrylic washes to tone it down. I then used AIM weathering powders to finish it off.

This is a picture of it that the owner took at Trainfest in Milwaukee, WI last weekend Nov. 14 2015. It was doing a fine job pulling it's commuter train.

Thank you for looking and I hope you enjoyed it.