Sorry, I dont have them, the local hobbie shop had them today. They looked really good. Maybe Wig Wag will post pics. Or if anyone else can get them post them here.
Here are the only photo's available from the Athearn site: Here is the description of the Challenger: N RTR 4-6-6-4 Challenger w/DCC & Sound, UP #3985 Overview This stunning reproduction of the 4-6-6-4 Challenger is the result of a focused determination to accomplish one thing: create the finest operating miniature representation of the prototype available. Giving life to all the details are authentic sounds that are channeled through a factory installed DCC and soundboard with speakers. The DCC decoder automatically senses what type of power supply is in use (conventional DC or NMRA compliant DCC) and adapts its functions. The modeler doesn’t have to do a thing. Functions and sounds available to DCC users include: Bell Whistle Water injector Air release Blower hiss Fire box door Lighting direction Coupling Brake squeal Conductor’s voice Sand release Cylinder cock/flange squeal A handheld wireless controller is included for use with conventional DC power supplies. With it, modelers can control six sound functions as well as speed and direction. The N Scale 4-6-6-4 Challenger includes a history book and instruction book for quick reference. Key Features Boiler backhead with full detailing Individually applied piping, valves, generators, etc. Correctly operating eccentric cranks Headlights and number boards with directional light change Tender light Five pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels Pivoting front and rear engines for negotiating 9-3/4" radius curves Factory installed onboard sound and DCC decoder Hand held remote control for DC operation Blackened metal wheels MicroTrains operating knuckle couplers installed N RTR 4-6-6-4 Challenger w/DCC & Sound, UP #3985 [ATH11802] Retail Price: $429.98 Copyright © 2005-2006 Athearn Trains, a division of Horizon Hobby, Inc. All rights reserved. Contact Us. Stay cool and run steam....
At this point all photos released by Athearn have been the HO releases. Only artist rendering have been released for the N Scale version so far. What Bob posted above is the artist's renderings [ January 19, 2006, 08:33 PM: Message edited by: wig-wag-trains.com ]
Not bad, not bad at all!! The price is high, but if it offers all the setails, runs great and even has sound, I think it is justified. Now if Athearn would consider this: NP Z8 Challenger 5130 Cheers Dirk
Might seem high at first, but like you say, "justified" when you consider it is a 4-6-6-4 challenger, hopefully better than bachmann quality and DCC & Sound built in. I've seen presales from $275-$299.
Wow!!! Do I want a Challenger. Drat!!! I am not going to pay for a bunch of Gimmicky c%@p!! Maybe Athearn will get off its high horse and offer this without all the Wiz-Bang at a price more of us can/will afford. JMO.
At least one more than any other kid on the block has? Got to fill up the round house. </font>[/QUOTE]well, thats one more (each) than i have
John: I'm sure Athearn will eventually release the Challenger without sound and DCC. Stay cool and run steam.....
