When a company desginates one of it’s models as “rail fan version” what does that mean? Specifically thinking of Bachmann’s n scale Berkshire.
A search for what the term means didn’t bring up much. If left to my own devices I’d guess it designates a model of a steam locomotive that has been brought back from the scrap yard and is used today as a museum piece, or as an excursion locomotive. But I’ve guessed wrong before so . . . .
Oh, and thanks for the forum. I learn much from hanging around here.
Nickel Plate Berkshire 765 was restored to operating condition in the late 70’s. It was fitted with more modern headlights and several other features at that time. The Bachmann model in question reflects the restored version of the loco.
I agree with Robert, but I will add that some restored steam locos have been converted to burn oil instead of coal for enviromental reasons and possibly, coal or wood availability. The Georgia Agricultural Museum in Tifton, Ga has an 0-4-0T loco with such a conversion, though it’s not excursion loco but operates on their railroad in their park. Ken
Another example is Milwaukee Road 261 which looks a bit different today than it did in regular service. I think a corollary to the “railfan version” of a steam locomtive would be the Union Pacific locomotives and passenger cars which have been offered in excursion or business train versions, because they look different than they did in regular service (ditch lights on the diesels are just one example).
“Railfan version” could be updated, mechanically, cosmetically (paint), or any combination of these.
NKP 765 is a good example. One big difference, other than the headlights, is the white trim on the wheels. That said white trim was not on them in revenue service, or was always dirty, and not noticeable. The “railfan version” we see today is always “shined up”, made ready for photos and videos, showing the clean white trim.