Rule292 posted:mwb posted:Jay C posted:Martin asked, "Still have no answers to: just how many P48 engines has Sunset brought in in the last decade? How about the other importers for that matter?"
I'm not sure I understand what difference it would make to the conversation. Having said that, the short answer would be, none. So what? Sunset did produce replacement drivers, in P:48, for some of their steam engines. If memory serves, they were for the SP/UP mikes and, later, the SP 2-10-2. Glacier Park produced conversion kits for their models and so did Overland. Were there other? I don't know, didn't keep track. Conversion sets are available for Sunset diesels.
Jay
Jay,
The question about response to marketplace prompted my questions. That importers are providing or have provided at least some reasonably available parts for conversion supports your contention of growth in interest. However, that still seems spotty at best.
So what are the costs and sources of parts for converting steam engines that lack such sources?
Hey Martin! You've been playing with trains long enough to know the answer to your tongue-in-cheek question.
Steam locomotives require either drop-in driver conversions (uncommon) or a machinist to convert/make drivers (the usual way). Not a hobby shop or eBay item but something relatively uncommon and varying in price due to the skilled labor required.
Actually, I don't know what the real costs of that might be given those drivers in many cases are probably not available. And, I have no idea of sources for drivers of all types & sizes.
And, if the P48 folks would step up and provide that kind of information, then maybe more folks would consider following through. It would seem to me that the lack of parts is a real impediment and limited to cottage industries at best. Yes, Joe F. could have but realistically his prices for conversions and modifications were seriously below real costs.
