For a start, I also would think a better idea would be to offer kits to retrofit existing available chassis, much like the aforementioned CF7. One could also put a GP50 kit on an Atlas GP40/38. Not just unassembled/unpainted kits, but maybe also unassembled/painted kits, or even more expensive assembled/painted kits so that the end user can simply take off the factory shell, and slide the kit shell right on. That kind of kit would be a "bridge", if you will, between the modelers who tend to RTR, and the kitbashers. ---jps
Let them build up their reputation with some freight cars first, their covered hopper looks like setting new standards in the manner Kadee did in the early 70's, then maybe look at locos. MTL tried it but picked a prototype (FT) that IM came out with at the same time over which the MTL version had no real competitive advantage. Maybe BMLA could start with 6 axle U boats or SD45's since Kato has stated they have no interest in redoing theirs. Of course if they do there will be whining that the new BMLA diesel is twice the price of the Model Power one I bought 25 years ago. I think Charlie Vlk makes a valid point about track, a C55 track of the same engineering quality of Unitrack would be a good move. Sure people who already have layouts and never plan building another wouldn't buy it, but using that argument means we will never progress.
IMO, anything that BLMA touches turns to gold. If they decide to do a loco, I'm sure it will be awesome. Look at the new hoppers from them. Setting the standards super high. A "slip on" shell would be cool, and you can always purchase just the trucks and "guts" from the Atlas online store. Cheaper than buying a whole loco (unless you use Ebay). I do agree that if Craig does do a loco, it should be something that is not available, or hasn't been available for a long time. Personally, my vote would be tied for a CF7, GP60M/B or a SF30C. Mike
While I like the slip on shell idea, I can do the same here with some stryene and an Atlas shell. I'd rather have the DCC equipped CF7, ready to go. :tb-biggrin: I guess this makes me an old ****.. Kinda like buying the HO grabs instead of making them because I'm too lazy to bend that many. Another engine would be a SW1001/1500... Lot's of roadnames there... Art
As long as it's not a rehash of what others have done, I'd like to see what BLMA comes out with. If they could introduce an RSD4 with some pulling power (unlike Atlas' model), that would be nice. I voted "maybe", but had the category existed, I woulda voted "it depends".
In other words, what JnJ is/was offering- shells to fit on existing chassis. This would be a nice way to introduce, say, CF7s, SD38s, SD39s (and their Dash-2 kin) and the like.
Kind of echoing the sentiments of some others... If they do, it needs to be something that no one else does. Some early switchers would be great, maybe even a Baldwin AS-16. They probably wouldn't though, especially with their focus on all things modern. I like the idea of the kits for steam engines as well, but I'm not sure if it would be too much-too quickly for them. U Boats would be a good one. There's not a single model of any of the six-axle Universal series out there that's up to modern standards and DCC-ready. Any U30, U33, or U36 would be great! Maybe for kicks make a U34CH for those interested in the commuter scene in NJ and PA. Personally, I would love to see a Norfolk Southern C39-8 with the round-roof cab, maybe even with the C32-8 for the Conrail folks. I figure if they produced the Top Gon, which is mainly a Norfolk Southern-centric model, then why not follow up with something to pull them with? Maybe even a Dash 9 wide cab with the correct headlight configuration, or a Dash 9 standard cab (they had about 125 of them if I recall). And, since we're on it, how about a modern version of the SD40 and SD40-2? Kato seems to be content with only producing BNSF and Santa Fe. How about an early-production Dash 2, maybe even some hi-hoods? There's only like a hundred railroads that used them. Could there possibly be too many of these produced? Honestly, with Kato's limited production, I'm surprised that Atlas hasn't already done it.
I can't understand the lack of SD40/40-2's other than Kato's releasing a couple of new BNSF/ATSF road numbers a year and even they don't really suit if you model pre 1990's. There are plenty of common prototypes from all eras that haven't been done yet if a new manufacturer wants to jump in. If BMLA produced high quality shells to fit Atlas mechanisms I predict the prices on Atlas's spare parts page will go up. I'm sure a better mechanism could be made anyway.
I don't' think that it's time yet for a locomotive. It's a money pit. Heavyweight passenger cars, with interchangeable sides and tops. Tops with clerestory and also those with partial air conditioning conversions. Easy to produce, easy to have a varied fleet, and you could get the 3rd party network making and printing car sides for your fleet, and therefore buying patented car sides from you to sell printed. Synergy. A sail boat can go faster tacking into the wind...
If Craig did enter the locomotive market, you can be sure it would be a well thought out model, as close to the prototype as possible. BLMA has become one of the leaders in n scale and I am looking forward to their new cars.
GP7 Chopnose! Craig has already done one (the one with my name on it should he ever part with it! ) All he needs is to tool up for the body kit
Well for those who have not been around from the start I can recall Craig as a 15/16 year old who started selling detail parts for N scalers. BLMA has grown into quite a reputable business from detail parts to very good quality rollingstock. Knowing Craig Iam sure he has a business plan but whehter it includes locomitives I will leave that to Craig to answer if he wishes to do so. Personally I think the next progression maybe locomotive shells to fit current mechanisms rather than full locomotive supply. The last thing we need is another locomotive manufacturer supplying same models. BLMA is a relatively young Company but successful so whatever his business model is i am sure he has our modellers at heart.
Interesting topic! Thanks for the kind words everyone! Here is a little insight on locomotives... Paul touches on a great point: This company has a focused business plan that outlines our strategy. If a locomotive should fit our plan and help build on our opportunities, strengths, and bottom line, it WILL happen. We must focus on products we know, and the market knows us for doing... Speculation, future predictions, mild-psychic abilities used for guessing our plans... I'll leave those up to you guys...
I voted no for the reasons Paul touched on and Craig elaborated. They are very good at what they do and there's more than enough freight prototype for BLMA to specialise in. Maybe their future includes moving into the locomotive market but I wouldn't be holding my breath for now. If anything, it would be a dream come true if BLMA was to obtain and resurrect the Sunrise line.
No, Craig should run for public office. He would make a great politician with that non-answer answer. Al
I voted "no" because they do an excellent job bringing uns signals and other important wayside details! So if they do a locomotive that would probably stop them from doing any more details.... On the other hand, if they bring us a Little Joe electric with the same level of excellence..... Michael
Craig, I have loved watching your business grow. Stick with details and freight cars. You are producing some of the best stuff on the market and I want to see the lines you are currently producing continue and grow.
Here Here !!! Craig is one of the industry leaders in forward thinking! I hope he is able to keep up with all he has done and is doing. I would like for him to tackle a locomotive and he now has a foot in the China manufacturing so why not? A GP60M please and CF7's! Mike
