BN SD70 Athearn or Kato??

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m looking to buy a BN SD70 and I noticed there is a Kato and Athearn model. Anyone have any experience with these makers of engine? Which one do you feel is better and why?

Thanks!!

2

The Kato SD70 MAC has put in an outstanding performance over at the Chgo Museum of Science & Industry running 263 days, covering 1,953 real miles.

3

Both the Athearn and Kato SD70MACs score high points for detail and performance. However the Kato unit has more weight and thus more traction, and thus would lean that direction given the prototypes service on 135+ Car coal trains. (I live in the Powder River Basin. Trust me)

Also given my fuming hatred for Horizon Hobbies over seriosly screwing up my favorite model train company, I would buy Kato just out of spite for them.

However I model GN in the winter of 1969. So its all a moot point.

James.

4

I have seen both models they are both nice, but I would go with the Kato, for the better pulling power, and the MUCH better and smoother drive system.

5

I have seen both units and find both are excellant models…As for me I would buy the Athearn seeing I have never been a Kato fan…[;)]