Plastic steam: Quality stuff, mind you. We have some of these available, but run or look poorly... GN R1/R2 class 2-8-8-2's, S2 class 4-8-4's, maybe a GN 2-10-2 or so. NP Z-series Challengers. Nuff said. Also, the engine that became the 'Northern' the NP 4-8-4. D&RGW L-131/132 class 2-8-8-2's, M64/68 class 4-8-4's, M-67 class heavy mountains.. DM&IR Yellowstones... UP 800-class 4-8-4's, 4000-class Big Boys, 5500-class 2-10-2's, 9000-class 4-12-2's... The 3900-series Challengers have been covered--hopefully the Athearn release is a showstopper! [ March 31, 2006, 07:52 PM: Message edited by: HemiAdda2d ]
California Cars... link Also, I can't fathom why Athearn didn't release their F59PHI in the Amtrak California Paint scheme.
No offense intended but kits do not count. Most modeleres now do not have the time to assemble kits, never mind paint and letter them. Also, many N-modelers do not have the skill level. I hear this EVERY DAY from customers.
Totally agree! Next best thing would be if Bach,M/P,Kato,MicroAce would would sell spare parts from the loco's they sell. The GHQ detail parts sold by RLW are a high standard,but still not enough variation......... Back on topic, THE ONLY NEW MODEL SHOULD BE A CAB FORWARD!!!!!! lol.
RSD-15....and tenders for large steam. Like 4-8-4, 2-10-2, 2-8-2 tender for Santa Fe steam. Also ditto to Russ, steam parts that can be added. # boards for UP, SP, ATSF....
In addition to the F45 and FP45, how about the other cowl units: the icons of early Amtrak, the SDP40F and P30CH?
NP U25C's and U28C's or U33C's would be awesome. MILW U28B's or U36C's as well. FP45's, MP15AC's, Baby Trainmasters or those High Hood Milw Road FM Switchers. So many, will anyone ever do them? Or are we stuck with the manufactures slapping new paint on old models? Steve
Dudes, there are plenty of locomotives already made or available on the used market. What N scale really lacks are Surfliners and ATSF El Captain Hi-Levels.
I wish Kato would make: FP45, F45 and the SD70ACe's in the UP-WP,MP heritage schemes. Cheers, http://cliffordconceicao3310.fotopic.net/c328807.html
That is probably true. It does suggest an untapped business model. We all know that manufacturers produce undecs, and these engines and cars immediately disappear. Why is this happening? Hobby shops seem to think that a whole lot of people like grey. Noooo, I don't think so. These models are feeding the input pipeline of the professional and hobby painters. The closest thing to this is how Intermountain took car sides, assemble and paint them, then sell them under their brand. Think of it like the coach builders of days gone by. People did not want a car kit. They did, however, want to buy hideously priced custom cars made by a specialty vendor. You've already heard grumbling about high EBay prices. Well, this is actually the bow wake of the iceburg these trends have been searching for, but keep missing! Make your kits, but be a wholesaler. Feed the input pipeline and then advertise your *painter/assembers*. It's the market Tower55 in HO senses, but doesn't understand...
Pooches are unlikely even though I'd like them just for sake. The SDP40F got a glint in the eyes of one manufacturer when we discussed it.
I second the motions on: California Cars Surfliners GP60M / 60B C40-8W SW1500 I'd like to see rereleases from Kato of: SD45 C30-7
I agree in a sense as to what you are saying George. It is a testament to the new age mentality. Work harder so you have less time so you can afford the premium for others to supply the things you used to enjoy doing when you had the time...?????? Kits are a niche market but a market none the less. People want the locomotives, cars etc. but aren't willing to do any work to get what they want?? Must not want them that bad... Small manufacturers have a tough time figuring out what will and wont sell because most people just talk and don't belly up when the product comes out. That being said..... first run of F45's are sold out. Glad not everyone is an open the lid model railroader or I would be out on the street. (not that there's anything wrong with that) grant
Low nose N scale GP9's would be good. If someone makes these shells already, let me in on it. Most every short line (at least the cool ones ) use these and they'd be appreciated, even if someone just produced a shell. I'd just like t osee something different that makes me say--OOOH! I gotta have it!
I thought Kato had hinted at a re-release of the SD45?? Or maybe I was just speculating, based on their release of the updated, DCC friendly SD40 chassis... Harold
