Yeah, and now it makes sense, because you don’t have buy a Master-Series engine to get the drive.
The Trainman GP38-2 MSRP is about $CAD 85. Add $20 for an Athearn GP50 shell and $25 for a decoder and the total (less details and paint) is about $CAD 130. Using a NWSL repower kit in an Athearn GP50, you’re around $CAD 155 less details and paint.
I see two sets of GP50’s in my future…one pair with 12:1 gearing and one with 14:1. [:)]
To modify an Atlas GP38 or GP40 to a GP38-2,GP40-2 or GP50 you should replace the sideframes in most cases. Hopefully the Atlas GP38-2 will have Blomberg M sideframes making the change much easier as long as they make them available as replacement parts.
My biggest problem with the RTR GP38-2 and SD40-2 from Athearn is that GD dome light in the cab. My CF7 has directional headlights in the proper location.
Modeler Bob said:My biggest problem with the RTR GP38-2 and SD40-2 from Athearn is that GD dome light in the cab.
Bob,That bond fire in the cab has been a thorn in my side for years…[:(!] So all I do is remove the bulb and mouting brackett and put that fire out…[;)] Then I simply paint the headlight lenses white to simulate a headlight which in my opinion beats that bond fire…