Loco model? Picture.

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I think this is a GP 38-2, I bought it used so I’m not sure.

I’ve fitted a soundtraxx decoder, any hints on keeping the wiring away from the flywheels?

and whats the difference with the area behind the cab some are sloped outwards?

Thanks Ken.

2

You are correct, that is a GP38-2. Try loosly taping the wires together, that might keep them clear of the flywheels. EMD hood units in the Dash-2 series and later have a tapered extension of the rear of the cab roof…my guess is that the slight overhang is meant to prevent rain water runoff from running down the cab rear door and into the cab when it’s opened.

Happy modelling,

Bill Wilcox
St. Louis, Missouri, USA

3

Sure looks like an Athearn GP38-2. The roof ‘bulges’ behind the cab are the ‘dynamic brakes’ if the engine is equipped with the feaure. Just forward is the ‘paper’ air filter box.

Jim Bernier

4

Yep it’s a athearn… take a look at the front coupler pocket… that shape is pure athearn. =)

5

NZRMac,

I have built platforms inside the shells of two engines to hold the electronics and wires out of the way. The easiest method is to take small strips of styrene (1x2 or 2x2) and glue them parallel to the rails inside the shell just above the flywheels / drive train. When dry, glue a styrene sheet platform on the strips. This makes a nice, secure shelf that will let you stuff a bunch of stuff over the drive train without having to worry about it dropping into the moving parts. I think it’s great, and wonder why no one ever mentioned it before.

I actually build two shelves, one in front of the motor and one behind the motor. The motor’s top electrical connections stick up between the shelves. Plenty of room for all kinds of stuff.

Mark C.

6

Appears to be a GP38-2 “minus” dynamic brakes.

The dynamic brake blister would be in the center of the hood. If it is a dash 2, there should be a small sight glass opening on the engineer’s side of the hood towards the rear.

I don’t know what that overhang is. I’m assuming it’s either weather protection or some type of air filtration unit. Various prototype EMD locomotives rebuilt in the Paducah Shop in Kentucky had similar looking contraptions just behind the cab.

Cheers!

7

Thanks everybody, I’ll have to do something with those wires, they are making a funny noise on the flywheels and I’m sure they are gunna short.

Ken.