RE: (erielack) SD45M modeling

["Bill K." <pontiac_@_dreamscape.com>]

With the old Athearn FP45 frame, you need to remove an inner strengthening 
rib from the top of the frame and narrow the truck bolster (and notch the 
shell a bit) on the rear portion of the frame.  The bolster has to me 
modified carefully, if you just file away so it clears, you'll file right 
through it and it falls off.  Thats why I would modify the shell a bit.

My experience was with an SD45 frame to install a Rail Power shell.  Looking 
at the FP45 frame I can't imagine it to be much different, though, 
especially if your SDP45 will be built with RPP components.  The F45 and old 
wide-body SD45 used the same frame, so it makes sense to use the FP45 frame 
for the SDP45.

I've been saving an FP45 frame just for the purpose of building an SDP45. 
Athearn cast a step into the side, but it's very light detail and will file 
off.  I would imagine this detail will be much improved on a Genesis model. 
The FP45 has a door a few feet back on the side over the tank, that's what 
the step notch is for.


Bill K.

- ----- Original Message ----- 
>
>>From Archives_@_Railfan.net
> Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2008 02:04:55 -0500
> From: "Tupaczewski, Paul R \(Paul\)" <paultup_@_alcatel-lucent.com>
> Subject: RE: (erielack) SD45M modeling
>
> Pat Moore asked:
>
>>
>> Paul T...have you modified any of your case of undecorated
>> Kato SD45s yet?  Sorry, couldn't resist!  I ran across your
>> old post in the archives the other day.
>>
>
> LOL, you're funny! :) Seriously, still planning on doing that... some
> year! ;)
>
>
>> I'm thinking up a plan for modeling a few SD45Ms and wanted
>> to pick some brains.  Question...do I go about the task of
>> adding 5 scale feet to a Kato frame, or do I wait for the new
>> Athearn Genesis FP45 and use that chassis and power train?
>> Mechanically, it makes more sense to go with the new FP45
>> because it avoids the problems with cutting and lengthening
>> the frame of the Kato chassis/frame.  However, there may be
>> unknown problems getting an SD45M shell to fit on the Genesis
>> chassis, unless I go with the new Athearn RTR SD45 shell as a
>> basis for the SD45M, using Cannon parts.  By the way, I've
>> got the old RMC article already.
>
> I like the Kato underframe components (motor, universals, truck towers)
> and am personally loathe to toss 'em. I still plan on stretching the
> Kato frame using brass L-channel for strength. If you take that route,
> you'll have to stretch the fuel tank accordingly (I ordered spare fuel
> tanks from Kato for this purpose)
>
> The Athearn FP45 chassis might be worth investigating, but I have a
> feeling as a part it won't be cheap, either, and as you mention, there's
> no guarantee the SDP45 shell will fit...
>
> Good luck! Let us know how you proceed!
>
> - Paul
>
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