Modeling Differences of EMD switchers

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I would like to know what the differences are of a NW2 and a SW1200. Would it be hard to take a model of a NW2 and kitbash it in to a SW1200? I can’t see any major exterior differences in two different photos. Is the only difference the horsepower ratings of the two engines?
Thanks
Craig

2

There is a Height difference in the radiator.It is only one half as tall on SW1200 as the NW2.might be few more slight louver differences.

3

There was an article published on just this project in Model Railroader magazine, I think it was in the Dec. '79, od '80 issue. A call to Kalmbach customer services should hook you up with the right back-issue. I have converted a few Athearn SW-7,s into NW-2,s using this article as reference. Mainly, the difference is a curved upper front window line, and a two-step taper in the hood right before the cab. Also, the radiator is shorter in the front. Get a hold of that article, and it will explain all the different variations with hood louvers, etc.
Hope this helps! Todd C.

4

I am not certain what manufacturer’s model you are starting with, but a much simpler conversion is taking the Athearn SW7 and converting it. It has basically the same carbody style as the 1200 except for the louvers along the side. Removing the upper row of louvers would yield a close model of an SW1200 without having to change the radiator on the front, or replacing the arched cab windows.

5

while on the subject of modifying EMD switchers, what changes should be made to an Athearn SW7 to make it into an SW9?

thanks

6

Oops,I was wrong.Only a phase5 NW2 has a tall radiator.I found a site that has good drawings of EMD switchers,anyone want the address?

7

Joseph
I would like that address. Thanks
Craig

8

Hi Craig.It’s a long address,hope I got it right:www.cyberus.ca/~yardlimit/emd/spotting/index.html