locomotive selection

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

About 18 months ago I returned to HO model railroading after and absence of about 25 years, largely because I have a grandson who really loves trains.

I have purchased the following locomotives:

Alco S1 (Life Like)
EMD GP7 (Life Like)
EMD SW 9/1200 (Life Like)
GE U25B (Stewart)

I am quite satisfied with these locomotives especially those from Life Like.

I’m now thinking about purchasing an Alco road switcher – perhaps an RS3 or RS11.

Can anyone compare the following models with any of those listed above?

Atlas RS3
Atlas RS11
MDC RS3

I will welcome all suggestions and comments.
Thanks in advance.

2

Hi,

Model Power makes an RS-11 in BN scheme, and an RS-2. Atlas would be better because they are in the “nicer” model category, but higher priced.

Good luck.

-Wolv33

3

The Atlas models not only look better, but have much better motors and drives. Don’t waste your money on Model Power unless you are buying for a small child who will break it within a year. Same for MDC - they are better that MP (who isn’t?), but not in the Atlas/P2K/Kato/Stewart class.

You get what you pay for!

  • George
4

Roger;

The Atlas locos are amoung the best made. The current MDC RS3 with the “improved” motor is also a fine model. Basically MDC’s RS3 has a LifeLike Proto 2000 chassis underneath.

Bottom line, you can not go wrong with any of the three locomotives you have listed.

Nigel

5

Roger,Looks like you’re off to a find start.I agree with George,I also recommend the Atlas Engines.By staying with the top brands you are sure to come out a winner.As george said,You get what you pay for.I agree 100%

6

It all depends on how “involved” you want to get. Are you looking to duplicate a certain prototype railroad, or do you just want to “run trains”? Many fine models are out there, some more costly than others. It is true that you “get what you pay for”, But with some detailing and paintwork, you CAN turn an “Athearn” blue-box bargain into a very respectable model. Like I said, it all depends on how much time you want to invest in the hobby.

7

Morgan the weights on top of the shell does work for the blue box Athearn.Thank you.

8

Whoa up! I am a firm believer in Athearn,I own several of the Athearn locomotive and consider them amoung the best locomotives made.

9

Your welcome!!My late wife figured that one out!