Chessie 614 at speed! Seems that a model has been long overdue

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi Guys,

A friend of mine told me about these video clips. I was amazed seeing the Chessie 614 cruising at Amtrak speeds!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rmKYGEicP4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=fvwp&v=r0R9PkVB244

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=fvwp&v=AhGoR1cpdrM

I was a member of the NRHS and rode behind the 614 as a car host back in 1981 (Operation Life Saver). Very enjoyable round trip from Tampa to Dunellon, Florida. Seaboard Coast Line Railroad officials were onboard as well. She was restricted to 55mph, but was capable of “E-unit” speeds.

For years I’ve been wondering why no model railroad manufacturer has produced a plastic version of this beautiful 4-8-4 race horse? Especially when some years back, modelers, including some here and the Atlas Forum, informed manufacturers of interest in the C&O Greenbrier class, built by LIMA. The 614 has a very impressive history. (you can read some of it on Wikipedia).

Interested modelers (myself included) were hoping that Broadway Limited would produce a 4-8-4 Greenbrier, but then I remember reading info clips regarding BLI experiencing financial dips and crests.

I wonder if this is a unit that MTH or Athearn might be interested in exploring since they’ve already produced HO steamers?

Cool potentials: The Eastern and Southeastern steam era modelers have expressed interest in the past on forums. The modern 1980s-90s modelers that would enjoy running steam powered excursions or specials with attractive motive power that’s very different from Alco steamers.

I’m hoping that there are still interested modelers. I saw her

2

Good shots BUT, the first one has dubbed in sound as no way could it have been heard from a plane or a chopper. Either one really annoys everyone else since their sound ruins a video. In the third we have a guy who gives railfans our reputation. He was lucky he wasn’t killed.

3

I was the head beakeman on a freight out of Russell following the 614…She wasn’t doing no where near 80 that day because we kept ridin’ approach signals in her wake.[:O]

If you really want a J…

http://www.brasstrains.com/Classic/Product/Detail/030098/HO-Key-C-O-J3-600-Class-4-8-4

PFM/United did one as well.

4

Hey, Antonio–I’d bite, and I model Rio Grande and SP, LOL! I think that C&O steam was particularly handsome, and those Greenbrier’s were right at the top of the category.

Believe me, if someone would come out with one, I’d be in line.

Tom