Finally a FP9A and B unit will be released in Canadian National Colours that match the Rapido coaches. Intermountain is releasing the model mid August. Just about purchased a Proto F7 set as they just released a CN version, it is however the freight version. Now I can have the proper scheme.
They are also releasing a VIA FP9 as well.
It is an FP9A, not an F9P. CN had FP9As only, while CP and VIA had FP7As and FP9As. The only difference between the FP7A and the FP9A is the horsepower rating. FP7As are 1500 hp and FP9As are 1750 hp. The external details on both locos look the same, although the air intake grilles on the CP units vary according to what years they were built. The FP9A replaced the FP7A in 1954.
…not to mention other details like the roof overhang, louvers infront of the first porthole etc…
Anyways, the CPR FP9s have been released and they look nice. They fall short in a few ways, but they look to be fine models.
I just dont understand how Intermountain can allow the units to be shipped with an awful American sounding horn. I had to reprogramme the sounds on 20 A units (giving them the proper K3 horn)and 10 B units (giving them a single chime wabco) before I would let them on the shelves. Horn sound is a HUGE selling point.
David B
Unfortunately Intermountain got the fuel tank completely WRONG! It should be centered between the trucks. From what I’ve seen they just mounted the FP9 shell on the FP7 chassis. Depending on how the chassis is designed it may be possible to correct this with out to much trouble, hopefully! Still for the price they charge they should come correct from the factory.