I am thinking about customizing an SD9 to an SDM like the DMIR did, but have never tryed scratchbuilding before.
Stuff I would have to do would involve, but not be limited too, chopping nose, new windows, new lights, possibly new cab, new air tanks, etc…
Does any company do custom building…or am I just gonna have to try myself?
If you do the work yourself, you can chop the nose, and use the cab front from Des Plaines Hobbies. You will have to scratch build the forward underframe that replaces the front fuel tank. IIRC, the DM&IR also replace the 4 36" radiator fans with a pair of 48" fans. There are lots of photos to work from, and paint/decals are available.
BTW, are any of the SDM’s still running in Duluth?
Jim
YUP!
DMIR still has 5 SDM’s, #'s 301,303,308,316, and 317.
The museum I work at also has a SDM converted from an SD18, #193.
Also wouldnt mind putting custom number and ISO 9002 decals on DMIR SD38-2 #9002.
Maybe a UP leased to DMIR ALCo C630…
So many possibilities…SDM first though…
Unless you got money to spend, then you better do it yourself. The stuff mentioned runs the bill up to $160.00 before tax. That is just the stuff that you said.
This would definitely be a custom build and a bit ambitious for a first kitbash/scratch job, but dooable.
the first step is to the research! Get in touch with the DMIR Historical society (if there is one), maybe someone there has already done such a conversion and will share their experience, do web searches for info and photos.
Personally, I would start with something a little easier just to get some experience.
Finally you could hire a custom builder (like me - see my profile) to do it or just the more difficult parts, such as modifying the frame and/or the chop itself etc.
If you do decide to do it yourself, feel free to PM me if you get stuck.
Yea, I am a member of the Missabe Railroad Historical Society…so they may be able to help.
And James(CMSTPP) and Kale(nssr9169) would probably come over and help to. If I decide to do it, I will be in touch.
Although, for my first project, I may just modify a SD38-2 to ISO 9002 staus.