i was just wondering why none of the manufactures ever sell locomotives decorated for the C&EI railroad. all i can find is 1 steam loco by athearn genesis and an F unit by someone else. according to my book, the Chicago and Eastern Illinois ran E-7’s a few different F units, GP7’s, sw7’s and NW2 switchers. also no one makes any passenger equipment for this road. but in turn you always see manufactures making these locos for other obscure roads. the railroad also ran alot of different steam locos, but i have checked brass lists and no one imports them for the C&EI. if any of you can help me with this problem, please let me know.
Manufacturers tend to follow others’ successes. If Santa Fe sells, everyone produces Santa Fe. C&EI modelers have two disadvantages 1. C&EI served two large cities, Chicago & St. Louis, but it was one of the smallest roads in those two cities, other than that, it ran through farm country. and 2. it was split up and merged into MP and L&N fairly early, so many do not remember it. It did have some very attractive Diesel liveries, though they might be expensive to duplicate.
Try checking with the C&EI historical society. They might have special run equipment for sale or might know of someone who does custom work.
Mike