Any good HO Csx loco models, ones that operate on 15" curves? I have 2 genesis SD45-2’s in CSX, but they need rerailers at the ends of curves, I am planning on getting Atlas’ new MP15DC, and re-lettering a Dash 8-40BW (I know CSX have none, so don’t bug me about it). But anyway, any good csx locos , hopefully in yn2 and yn3?
Just my opinion I guess, but 15" curves on HO are way, way too tight. I don’t think anything will operate or look good on 15" curves, maybe try to loosen up the curvature? I wouldn’t go for operating anything under 21" at a minimum, maybe 19" on an industrial spur. Engines start looking decent at about 24" radius. Just [2c]
Well, the 15’’ is in a tunnel, plus, I just have a 4x8 board with half of the scenery already in place. Changing the radius is impossible. But rerailers are in place for my SD45-2’s…
Still, and perhaps worse, it’s a recipe for frustration. Derailing in a tunnel is often worse than derailing in the open.
My suggestion would be to work the curvature to something that operates better and looks better. Especially since you’re looking to model modern equipment, which are larger than olden days stuff.
The tunnel is easily removable. Work the curvature to something that operates better and looks better? what does that mean (hey, I’m a newbie! This is my first layout!)
Try an Atlas Trainman GP38-2. It’s avalable in the YN2 scheme. I don’t have the GP38 but I do have a pair of RS36s with the same drive that run like champs.
You also might want to look at Athearn’s RTR GP38-2 or RTR GP40-2 in both YN2 and YN3.
These 4 axle units should work better on your tight curves.
Nick
http://www.modeltrainstuff.com/View_All_Roadnames_s/1406.htm
Click on CSX in the road name section. They’ve got a bunch to choose from. I’d avoid anything with 6 axles on 15" curves.
Im a CSX buff as well but I use 22" or higher radius so I can run 8-40CWs (YN3 if you care) in multi unit lash ups. but go with 18" at minimum, your life will be easier lol.
Didn’t they make a CSX Trackmobile???
thanks, but i am trying for higher quality. do p2k’s come with dcc plugs? and, this may be a bit off topic, but why has atlas recentely made csx locos in stealth scheme, or earlier schemes? Why not modern!!!
What is the size, the dimensions of your layout? Are you working with a 4’x8’ layout, for example?
Since you are stuck with the 15" radius, you will find a four axle unit of any variety better than a six axle unit. There are lots of them out there - I don’t know about CSX in particular - so you should be able to find one that suits you. Don’t forget that CSX operates lots of foreign power, so a unit from another major road would be right at home on your layout.
Not to change the topic too much but, what is wrong with Atlas Trainman? I would take them in a second over any Proto. Trainman needs a little detail added but the drive is well worth it. There’s nothing wrong with adding a little detail yourself and I think Atlas will last a lot longer.
My layout is 4x8, a variation of the red wing project layout, to answer shawnee’s question. I’ll take a look at trainman. Does it have a dcc plug?
Well, if changing the track plan is impossible you’re stuck with 15" curves. You may want to look down the road at revising your layout and track plan, for I think making the curves broader would look and operate better. But you have what you have.
Frankly, if I had a 4x8 layout these days, I’d go N scale. So much more you can do with the space. I have like a 10x12x8 and kinda wish I had made the investment an N scale investment because there is so much more I could do with the space. But agin, you have what you have.
I can make it minimum of 18 in a pinch. Can I change the fuel tank of the atlas trainman GP38-2? I don’t like the 2,600 gallon tank, and where can I find super detailing parts?I’ve found the following locos and I would really appreciate some feedback on them:
Spectrum Dash 8-40CW - don’t know radius, but I think it’s 22" 
Atlas Dash 8-40B - doesn’t specify radius.
BLI SD40-2 new csx one coming out - MR says minimum is 18"
Proto 2000 GP 38 or 40 - Most likely 15" or 18" radius
That is a really good idea. I’ll look at NS, PW and CP. Plus, I have a train coming from Chicago in most op sessions, so I could have UP, BNSF, etc…, right?
8 pin NMRA plug.
Nick
What about P2k Gp38-2?
Might paint an atlas GP40-2, they look nice.