Larry Neal posted:rheil posted:Scott and I talk on average every couple of weeks about what projects to do and the SD40-2 seemed to be a good candidate to attempt for a more modern diesel than what has typically been offered by Sunset/3rd Rail. But the SD40-2 did not come close to having sufficient reservations.
As has been noted in previous comments on this forum possibly modern power (meaning after steam power was gone) is not a good fit for Sunset / 3rd Rail. With that in mind look for what we consider to be a "good" diesel announcement from Sunset early next year.
Although the only thing I have purchased from 3rd Rail was an ACL express reefer, I have had some interest in the locomotives, just not the funds. Seeing what has been put out by Atlas, Lionel & MTH, there does seem to be plenty of overlap of similar models.
Here is what I propose as possible "transition era" diesel locomotives:
GP30 - Lionel has put this out for several years, but with some issues. I think a properly done, scale version, with LH/HH and DB/NDB versions should sell well. Railroads seemed to skip the GP18 and GP20 models, making the GP30 extremely popular in the 1960s - 70s era. Non-Powered units would need to be offered since many railroads ran them in 3-4 unit consists (or lash-ups?) on their fastest time freights.
SW1200 / 1500 - This switcher would be perfect for those who have limited space but want the quality and look of a scale model. Most switchers made are NW2 or SW8/9 versions, and these were made, depending on model, from 1954 - 1970s.
I would also add GE U Boats, but the their 1960s era models - U25B, U33B and U36B were somewhat limited by railroads that purchased them.
I know the thread is about the GP40-2 but my 2 cents would be for the GP20. MTH is the only company that makes them and if produced by Sunset I know they would be one to buy. I speak not only for 3-Rail but 2 Rail as well where I don't find many at all.
