Hey Josh and Jim!

[macjet]

I'd like to get your opinions on Athearn's new SD40-2's. Specifically the new Rock Island units.

http://www.athearn.com/Articles/HobbyWire.aspx

Thanks!

Jacob

 

[UP2CSX]

Jacob, I'd have to see one in person but they look like a really significant upgrade to the RTR line. At least they finally got rid of the crew frying headlight! From the prototype specific details and the additional detail parts Athearn has added, it's hard to tell the difference from the Genesis line. I hope they are as good in person as the spec sheets say they are.

 

[jbaakko]

I'm not sure on the newest of new runs. The last SD40-2 I got was from the first run after the new drive/body, not even RTR yet. However, I'm interested in the new nose headlight Snoot SD40-2's in BNSF paint, they'll allow me to sell off some older versions.

 

[macjet]

Thanks.

I remember reading about the SD40-2's sitting too high. I was wondering what other problems there might be with the Athearn units that I need to look out for.

My only experience with a recent Athearn is a RPP GP35. The detail was nice but the weight was disappointing. I haven't run it yet so I wasn't sure how well they are running. At least the cutout pilot is gone.

 

[wongsing]

Hey macjet,

I have one of the new SD40-2's..It is one of the new RTR units. Although I have never owned any of the other SD40-2's releases Athearn has offered, I have seen them. Although mine is undecorated, my friend bought the Milwaukee Road Bicentennial unit. The details are stunning IMHO. The paint is better than the previous releases, grab irons are now installed, as are fuel tank details (plumbing) and the windows are flush as well. As with the last release before these newest ones, the handrails are plastic and look better. The horns and prototypical details are there on the select models that would have had them (ATSF SD40-2's have the cab mounted AC) However, there is still no tread on the walkway, no MU hoses, etc. I prefer it like this anyways as I like to add my own details. I think they look better and they are pretty cheap as well. Detailswest makes some REALLY nice brass steps and walkways that are pretty easy to install. As you may also know, they make just about every detail part to bring it up to levels exceeding the other big companies any day. I'm not sure if there is something specific you wanted to know...Also, I'm sorry that I can't tell you too much about Rock Island prototypes either. I would recommend one of these to anyone though. I have some "alright" pics I could post of my undec unit if you need to see a specific angle or something. Hope that helps!

-Rich