Hi Rich. Operating ditch lights are actually one of the easier items to add. As I recall they were done for the late era SD7/9 project. At a minimum the Norfolk Southern units had them on that project.
Some of the other issues regarding the phasing of this locomotive will need a lot more scrutiny, but until the orders reach critical mass design won't start in earnest. That is why these threads are helpful to keep a database of all information shared to date. With the recent resurrection of this thread and renewed interest perhaps this project can stay alive!
