This is the stage at which realism becomes more possible. I have now painted the locomotive all over in matt black. I will then add numbers and lettering, before applying an all-over protective coat, then add weathering to make it more realistic.
Here are some pictures in still and video format:
These are “Youtube” videos of the engine running on my test track.
To the educated eye there are some mistakes visible, even apart from the lack of number and lettering, but they aren’t too obvious, I hope.
There are no cab window frames or glass, some small parts remain the wrong colour (coupling hooks, etc). No coal in the tender.
There’s also no exhaust steam injector below the left of the cab (it fell off as I was preparing the loco for the video – curses!).