Looks like Athearn will be following a similar path as the 1:1 U.P by reusing the trucks from the “baby” Turbines on the next generation loco, U50’s. Even though I am a died in the wool U.P. modeler, I am surprised to see yet another model of a loco that was used by very few railroads, namely U.P & S.P. The Turbines, of course, were only used by the U.P. and by all accounts have been a good seller, probably because of their uniqueness.
With this in mind, perhaps there is hope for the U.P. 8500 hp turbines down the road. (hint, hint)
I own three of the Union Pacific Gas Turbines now and now it looks like I will be ordering a U-50 in Southern Pacific. I model the B&O/ Chessie System so why do I buy these engines? Because they are so unusual and I never dreamed that anyone would make them in anything other than expensive brass.
I have one each of the MTH and Athearn Verandas and one of the first Athearn Turbines and have compared them to a brass unit a friend has and they are equal or better as far as details.
If someone would make a EM-1, a quality DD-40,the Big 6 Western Maryland shay and a good SW-1 diesel switcher then I would really be a happy camper!
Please no more Big Boys or F-unit diesels I think we have enought already!IMHO [swg]
Heres another hint for Athearn. MAKE IT IN N!!! It would go nicely with my DDA40X (somewhat unfortunetly by Bachmann). I have also seen the Turbines and N, and it would be nice if Athearn also made these in my small gauge. It would be dificult for me to track down one of these boggers, probably even more so to afford it. Come to think of it…aah, that’s another post.
I was looking forward to seeing them in July. Latest news is September 2011. [^o)]
Well, on the positive side it gives me time to save up for DCC sound decoders. Hopefully the new QSI “Titan” and LokSound “V4.0” will be on the market. I just hope one or both have the GE “Chug” right this time! I can only imagine that with twin prime movers the prototype U50s were loud. [8]
Since I’ve lost my LHS I’m not totally sure who I should order a UP U50 from.
Guess what!? Athearn’s making one![:D] It will be a Genesis model, and due to the more realistic design, it will require larger curves. If you have above I think a 24" minimum radius, you should be fine.
I noticed in the magazine that Athearn is bringing out the DD40X with DCC Sound in sevedral road numbers and just pre-ordered one from Factorydirecttrains.com for $289.00. Will probably be a year before it arrives as with the MTH UP Heritage line.