posted
I'm new to model trains. I'm looking for an engine. I would like to know What engine model was running during the period of 1980 to current date. Can anyone help me?
Posts: 1 | From: Venice, FL,USA | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
I hope others will also answer this, because I do not have the entire answer. In 1980, Amtrak was still using some of the older E and F units that it obtained from the railroads in 1971. They were fading away, and being replaced by newer models.
By the late 1970s, many long distance trains were being pulled by F40PHs. These F40s lasted a long time, and many of them are still in service. The Genesis locomotives are now gradually replacing the F40s.
------------------ Elias Valley Railroad (N-scale) www.geocities.com/evrr
posted
What engine you run depends on what kind of train you are pulling, the terrain it will be crossing, and the size of your railroad. If you are just starting out, and have a small layout, your best bet is to go with a GP-35, GP-38, or a GP-40. These were produced from the late sixties to early eighties, and many Class 1 railroads still run all three. Even an old GP-9 isn't out of the question- many built in the late 50's with over 15 MILLION miles are still rolling today.
posted
I just have bits & pieces of infor for you. MR did a product review on The Walthers F40PH in May of 98(I can mail you a copy) In part it stated that 400 of these units were built between 1976 through 1989 for Amtrak,Chgo,Bstn, New Jersey transit lines.According to MR's June 2000 edition, HO diesel round-up, the EMD-GM built F40PH model was made by Bachmann,Lifelike and Walthers. I Have 2 of the Walther's units double heading the new 5 car budd 85'footer passenger cars that Amtrak inherited in 1971 and refurbished and ran into the 80's. Should you want more infor on these particular model you may E-Mail me at locomotive3@prodigy.net
Posts: 213 | From: Grand Rapids Mi USA | Registered: Apr 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
To supplement my previous response. Just received my 2002 Atlas HO catalog and it states !The Dash8-40BW was designed by GE in the late 80's for Santa Fe, that Amtrak like the design so much, they had the above unit modified to reflect Amtrak's new generation of Diesels to a Dash8-32BHW. You can probaly see this model by going to www.atlasrr.com and click on products but it's pricey. Walthers also makes a similar model that's in the Walthers 2002 catalog and perhaps you can bring it up by going to www.walthers.com about 1/2 the price without all the bells and whistles or DCC
Posts: 213 | From: Grand Rapids Mi USA | Registered: Apr 2001
| IP: Logged |
Printer-friendly view of this topic
