I was reading the post about the realistic throttle (http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/25866?page=1) with a lot of  interest.  As I now have about 8 locomotives that run with DCC sound decoders and have enough track laid to actually use them, I am running into the problem of higher functions (other than lights horn and bell which are standardized)  and how to remember them all!  I use QSI Titans and Revolutions, Tsunami's, and have 1 TSC Wow steam not yet installed.  I am also thinking of trying the ESU Loksound as everybody seems high on them.

In volume 2 of this weathering series, Mike Confalone weathers diesel locomotives. For project 1, Mike weathers the D&H "Gray Ghost" U23B. In part 1, Mike reviews prototype photos and then first highlights the details with an oil shadowing wash, then weathers various hood details using PanPastels. Part one of two.

Watch it now on TrainMasters TV ....

I'm working on a scratchbuilt rail car that is complex enough that I'll need to make most of it from custom designed etched brass parts.

I'm using ProE CAD to design the components, and I'll be able to output the files in .DRW or .DXF format.

Here's the questions: 

Does anyone have experience in this process as a hobbyist, and what vendors would they would recommend that will do small volume work for an individual?  (Versus a commercial production facility)  IE, an etching shop that understands modelers.

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