Adding Customizable Running Numbers Funtion to Non-Customizable Locos?

[NJCurmudgeon]

I know that there are locos where, using the question mark tool, you can set customized running numbers that will appear in the appropriate spots without having to create separate cloned and reskinned assets for each number. But is it possible to add that customizable function to locomotives that do not have it already built-in?

I've modified a locomotive I like for a fictional commuter railroad that will have a bunch of different engines. Being able to customize the numbers easily would be a help.

Thanks!

 

[rweber95]

Running numbers on locos requires that places for the digits are made a part of the loco's mesh. Adding these to an existing loco can be done but requires you to create additional meshes (using Gmax or Blender) and adding attachment points (using PEV's attachment maker) in the existing loco's mesh. The tools exist but I don't know if anyone has ever done this. Perhaps someone can reference a case or two.

Bob Weber

 

[NJCurmudgeon]

Thanks Bob. I'd be interested in hearing from anyone who has used those tools or can suggest a good beginner tutorial since I have no experience with them. I would probably go with Blender since it's open source. I've used PEV a little bit, but have found it easier to modify skins in Photoshop, since that's more where my experience lies.

Thanks again!

 

[norfolksouthern37]

Running numbers on locos requires that places for the digits are made a part of the loco's mesh. Adding these to an existing loco can be done but requires you to create additional meshes (using Gmax or Blender) and adding attachment points (using PEV's attachment maker) in the existing loco's mesh. The tools exist but I don't know if anyone has ever done this. Perhaps someone can reference a case or two.

Bob Weber

only additional meshes are needed, attachments are not required but would be a creation preference i would guess.

 

[gearhead2578]

Not that I'm speaking from nearly the experience as Justin - but logically if you could change the running numbers anyway (presuming I read the OP's post correctly) and were looking to make them work like ARN, wouldn't the meshes already be there for the digits? I do remember a thread on the forums quite a while back about adding auto running numbers to any locomotive.

(Edit) ~~ I re-read the OP.... nevermind...... I'll climb back in my quiet little corner now