Winter Hatch

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

Hi,

I’m actually detailling a set of CP Rail FA2. Even if there’s a lot of informations and pictures on the web, roof shots are quite rare. I’m puzzled how to fit a set of Miniature by Eric winter hatches. On some pictures, they seem to overlap the fan. The large hatch exceed the roof plate that should support it… What is the exact location? Any clues?

Matt

2

You are correct. On the Alco/MLW FAs the winterization hatch only partially covers the single large radiator fan. On EMD models the winterization hatch would completely cover the first radiator fan.

Here’s an FA-1 at my club with a large MbyE hatch installed:

http://www.wrmrc.ca/Loco4019.html

For FA-2s, the arrangement was a bit different with a pair of smaller split hatches instead of a single large hatch, the extra length behind the radiator allowing for the small bit on the rear of the rad fan:

http://www.mountainrailway.com/Roster%20Archive/CP%204000/CP%204090-2.jpg

3

Thanks for your input CV.

Someone send me roof pictures of CPR FA-2 where it is clearly visible.

Since you bring the FA-1 here, I was curious if the CN also used those large winter hatch. I’ve seen small winter hatch on many units (even FA-2). Honestly, they look like EMD F-unit winter hatch (small and not over the large fan). Puzzling me…

Matt