Can't find a "B" unit for Southern Pacific

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have several Proto 2000 E8/9 Southern Pacific units. They are the ones with the “Bloody Noses”. I need to find a B unit for these. I would prefer a powered one buy a dummy would be fine. I have tried several places but can’t seem to find one.[?]

Thanks
Michael

2

You’re going to have a long wait. SP had no E8/E9 “B” units, only “A’s”. However, you can prototypically use an E7 or PA “B” unit with SP’s only E8 (#6018) or any of its E9 units.

Andre

3

Andre’s right–and Life-Like followed the prototype by not producing E8Bs or E9Bs in Southern Pacific paint and lettering. They have done E7Bs and PB units in SP. Mix and match those, just like SP did with their E8A and E9As.

4

Yes! You guys are right. SP did not have any E8/E9 B units. I was thinking about the same subject months ago. I check into the SP websites and look into the rosters. But as a SP fan, the good news is that they mixed and match units. There’s pictures of an E7A - E7B- PA-1, lash-up. During the end of the 60’s early 70’s you did see mixed trains. If you are a SP fan, I recommend looking at http://espee.railfan.net/espee.html. Great website!

5

Thanks for the replies. At 43 I feel like a kid when I see those trains [:D]

Has anyone ever painted a B unit?

Thanks Again
Michael

6

I have painted many B units, and the SP E7B is easy to paint if you paint. Do you paint with an air brush and have you painted any engines???

Painting is fairly easy if you have an airbrush, but some of the Model Master paint cans do a fair job if you are good at painting. I have used an airbrush for thirty some years and recommend that method as best.

7

bangert1,

Yes my wife bought me one last year for Christmas. I have used it to do some heavy weathering on my cars and engines. I have not painted a loco yet. Is it possable to send me a photo of a painted B unit of yours?

Thanks
Michael

upgasturbine@aol.com

8

I sent some steam pictures as I do not own any of the diesels I have painted, but most of the steam I painted I own.

You need to practice on some model cars or lesser items to get used to an air brush, but once you get used to it, you will really enjoy the finished product.

Larry