I have been working on the trestle that branch line trains have to cross as they leave the peninsula. Here is how it looks so far:
 

I have tinted the basswood some before I started building the bridge. I know that trestles normally are a lot darker but I wood hate to spray rail brown all over the thing. What does everybody think? Could I leave the color as it is or tint it a little bit darker maybe? Do I really have to make it look dark brown to make it prototypical? Remember, I'm modeling the transition area so the bridge would not be new...

Looking forward to lots of feedback !

Michael,

The answer is - look at prototypical pictures to see actual colors. You still have the option to color it any color you like. My opinion (and it is only that) is that the color looks like the trestle is brand new and not aged wood. It's a really neat looking trestle!

Rick

Yup Michael, if the color is accurately rendered on my screen, that trestle looks like it was built yesterday.  Some careful airbrushing and/or other weathering could probably save it.  Since you're questioning things now, not making the change is likely to make the trestle bug you every time you look at it.

Since you mention the model isn't complete, I'm assuming you have something planned under the center shortened bent to transfer the load to adjacent bents.  There could be some heavy beams under the shorter bent, resting on headers built into doubled or tripled bents on either side.  Otherwise, a prototype bridge built like that could see the center bent collapse rather easily.

Good luck finishing this project - you can do it...

That's one nice trestle, Michael. I must agree that it does look new. Why not try to give it light dustings with powders, drybushing  or a light airbushing. You can always  darken more later if you want.

Roy

Michael

Maybe these pictures will help of the Horseshoe Bridge on Puffing Billy Railway

Cheers 

Alex

Thanks everybody for their advice! I have added more details and gave the bridge a dark wash. Here it is:

That looks much better!

That looks much better!

Thanks Rob for your help!

The trestle looks well-crafted and well-suited for your railroad; however, I still think it looks too "new".  Looking at the rest of your weathering - especially the very well-aged tunnel portal - this bridge still has the appearance of being built in more recent times than the rest of your structures tend to suggest.  If I were to offer my humble opinion, I'd say to wash a lighter grey stain over the wood to imply age and highlight all the joints, especially where bolts would be present, with darker colors to indicate mold/rust/grime/etc.

Just an observation and an opinion.  I will say the trestle will be an incredible addition to the whole feel of the layout.

Can't wait to see it in place on the peninsula!

Looks good, Michael. Once you have it installed and the scenery around the trestle completed it just may be that the superintendent had the trestle rebuilt. Hmmm, maybe a few old pieces of lumber down in the gorge.

Roy