Metrolink F40PH #800

[jbaakko]

Since I have little to no money to spend on parts, yesterday I started work on my model of Metrolink's F40PH #800. This unit started its life as Amtrak #396.

The model is a Walthers Trainline F40PH, Undec. I spent about 2 hours yesterday drilling, chiseling, and filing out the fans. I then installed 3 Q fans and a DB fan salvaged from a scrap P2K GP60 shell.

Once that was done, I started on the turbo hatch. Unfortunately for me, Cannon & Co does not make the correct hatch, so I opted to use the molded on hatch, with a new exhaust stack. To find the correct exhaust was fun, I wanted a see-though one, but the only version I have in my collection (and only one I know of like this) was on a DB hatch from an Athearn GP50. The prototype looks to have the thicker center bar.
http://rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1204666

I used another photo of an F40PH with a similar hatch to guesstimate the location of the new exhaust.
http://www.locophotos.com/PhotoDetails.php?PhotoID=66595

And here's the "completed" work. I still need to install an AC unit, ditch lights, the center single lens light, and underframe details.

 

[wheeler1963]

Looks like a good start Josh. And doing it on a budget is even more impressive!!!

 

[jbaakko]

Installed an AC unit now. I used a Detail Associates one, but I had to re-do the top as the fan style was wrong.

 

[TMLW]

Looks good! Can't wait to see it with the rest of the details.

I need to get some other projects done so that way i can get started on the GCRY #239 and #295. How well does that engine run? Are they worth putting in DCC? I have a Kato one already but am deciding if i want to spend that much to get a 2nd one.

 

[jbaakko]

Jeff, it runs well in DC, not sure how well it'll isolate though, the motor is a decently close fit. I'll find out once I get there, lol.

 

[UP2CSX]

Looks close enough to me, Josh, but I'm not a diesel detail fanatic.

 

[jbaakko]

Thanks Jim! It's a work in progress, I have to say, I like the Walthers model twice as much as the Kato, just wish the drive was that of the Kato.

 

[midexjet]

Josh,

the couple Walthers F40'sI have converted to DCC have run just fine..

 

[LATX]

Jus curious how did the project go?

 

[jbaakko]

Have no worked on anything in some time. I'll get to it sooner or later.

 

[diburning]

Let me know how you will do the ditch lights. No one makes the Amtrak-style housings for them. I have one that MGWSY did for me with OMI GE marker light housings on it (that project got shelved when I messed up the repainting of the loco)

 

[jbaakko]

I was thinking of just cutting in a square hole, and using RailFlyer parts.

 

[LATX]

Im using Detail Associsties (229-1013) ditch lights