Does anybody know where I might find a new HO scale body shell for a Kato GP35 that I converted to a road slug several years ago? The powered chassis still runs perfectly, but I’m not modeling CSX anymore. A google search didn’t turn up any Kato shells for sale, only whole models.
Failing that, are there any other brand shells that can be easily made to fit on the Kato chassis?
Thanks…
Have you tried the Kato USA website? I didn’t peek, but they often have parts and at reasonable prices. I’ve bought several shells for another loco from them at $20/each.
What scal eare you talking about? I have an N scale WM circusl paint shell.
Ira
I did - after I read your reply.[:$] A search of the Kato USA web site didn’t turn up anything for GP35’s - probably because they were produced back in the mid 1990’s. Any extra shells they might have had were probably sold out long ago.
But thanks anyway for the suggestion…
OOPS - my bad! I’m looking for an HO scale shell. [I’ve edited my original post]
Hello,
Every once & a wile they come up on the eBay, but Kato had at least 2 shells an A & a C? I believe, maybe more… I have only complete models too. If you wait one will come up.
I would not try anyone’s other shells, as they are not as nice as the Kato’s, they are worth the wait.
If you are really in a hurry, I would be willing to negotciate a new fully GP35 Purchase & relinquish the shell & details, to keep the running gear for a kitbash.
If that is a thought, PM me & we can fairly deal.
Thanx Chad I appreciate your offer, but I’guess I’m not in that much of a hurry…aside from that, I couldn’t bring myself to strip a beautiful custom paint job like that ex-MRL ICE patch unit.
Check your messages Jim.
Ken,
LoL!!! That’s cuz she was an undecorated one, before my hoser of an airbrush hit her!!!
Ha hah
Well if it does come down to it, contact me, who knows?
They have seasons, when I was looking for this girl, the market was dry, a couple months ago I could have had a dozen??? Weird…
I think you may be treading the same waters, as those shells come & go, keep watching, you will win!
Take care!! & thanks for the compliments!!!
OK, I sent a reply to your mailbox
Ken
Before you commit to a decorated shell, remember this. Kato factory paint is a bugger to remove. Ask BC of the FCSME. He has melted a few Kato shell with various chemicals trying to remove paint. You really need someone with a media blaster to strip those shells
I had Brian at Mainline Hobby strip the SP paint off of one for me back in the 90’s. You may want to see if anyone in your neck of the woods does it. Or check with Brian if ya don’t mind the drive. (pick me up on the way if your goin! [;)]) Best part is the paint sticks much better after media blasting, even on the handrails!![:D]
Karl -
Not to worry, I’m quite familiar with the vulnerabilities of Kato plastic. That MRH article I did on painting a CSX SD38-2 was for a Kato body shell that started out as a C&NW unit. I used 91% alcohol to strip it, never left it to soak unattended.
Since Kato GP35 shells don’t grow on trees, I’ll have to take whatever I can get, painted or not. But I’ll certainly look into your idea…