Some pics of the MTH CNW SD70ACE (new frame)

I just got a MTH CNW Heritage engine and was comparing the old rounded stamped frame (CP Rail) to the new detailing. I’ve heard a lot about it and I think it looks great. Click on picture to enlarge:

I’m thinking of getting the SD70ACE in either GE demo or MRL version next. Great job MTH. Joe

Very nice looking engine! Are you using it with DCS?

I bought a new MTH SD-45 a about six weeks ago and it works great. The only problem I had was programming it into the remote control, had to delete it then re-enter it as it wouldn’t do the ditchlights correctly or proper speed control.

Lee F.

What is the minimum radius required for that CP 9302, O100? Wow.

Lee, yep it took me a few tries to get it loaded into DCS too. I forgot to shut off the rest of the layout ( to remove other engines) while I added it. The first time it added, a different engine moved when I upped the speed thumbwheel.

Rock, I think it’s for O42 hirail; and 42" 2rail curves, yep just found the 2008 vol 1 listing

“- Operates On O-42 Curves” Joe

Really great looking engines!!

enginear,
I picked up the scale-wheel UP flag version of the SD-70 Ace- my first MTH diesel since they went to PS2. Despite the inaccurate details like the chassis beams that are too thin and the fuel tank that is incorrect, I was still impressed by the overall detailing, fine handrails, and fixed pilots. I used #805 Kadees instead of the #806s MTH recommends, but those fit easily after cutting the back of the draftbox off with a dremel- worth the effort as the look is alot more realistic with the scale coupler.

I attempted to run my scale-wheeled SD-70Ace at my train club, since I didn’t have DCS at home. After fitting the roller pickups and switching the engine to 3-rail, I hooked the Ace to a freight consist and powered it up- it also took a few tries to load it into the DCS remote, but once I accomplished that it started up. The scale wheels derailed frequently on the Gargraves trackage laid throughout AGHR’s layout, but since this club is 3-rail I would recommend checking the easements, track level and switches before attempting to run the scale-wheel version on 3-rail track. MTH also offers 3-rail wheelsets, which easily swap in- probably a better choice for 3-rail track.

Other owners of these MTH 3/2 convertible engines have run the scale wheeled versions on 3-rail track successfully- Rich Battista and Rich Montague to name a few. But both also recommend checking your track before attempting it, since the scale wheels will find any defects in your track laying.

Geno