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Midwestern Model Works - Announces High Quality SD40-2!

N nw2124OGR Forum Member

Eric of Midwestern Model Works is doing O scale SD40-2's with his most superior drive and lighting system in the some price range as another importer. I had seen his lighting package and his superior smooth drive that no other drive comes close. This is a loco that he personaly would like to have so he is building this model so that it will have his drive and lighting package. There will be even choices in scale wheels sizes to chose from. This is a no brainer for me as I have wanted a high quality diesels in O Scale for a long time. Looks like he will be the "Kohs" of diesel. He is taking orders now! I understand that he is wrapping up the SD45 orders so if you would like one get your order in or be left out. PS: I have no business ties with Kohs or Midwestern Model Works. I am a customer who expects more.

George/nw2124   "Progress - either you are for it, or get out the way!" 

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H hibarOGR Forum Member

And you will be paying up front for these models [not that there is anything wrong with that] but you are in effect a  partner in the project with no insider knowledge and no control over delivery dates [witness the current situation with the Kohs Challenger]. In fairness this may be what it takes in todays market for a new importer to get the project done.The current active importers have confidence in there customer base and capital to import in advance of payment. Double ouch! if you like your diesels in pairs.

N nw2124OGR Forum Member

If it takes to be a partner and make a deposit up front, than his drive and lighting package will be will worth it. I don't see Key or OMI offering these extras for the same price! I know that for some the price for brass is out of sight, but Key, Kohs, Midwestern Model Works, and Overland are getting enough orders to produce what is not available in a correct and quality model. Just my thoughts.

George/nw2124   "Progress - either you are for it, or get out the way!"

 

Mike DeBergMike DeBergOGR Forum Member
I definitely echo the same thoughts here.  IMO, it seems very difficult to increase the level of innovation with some of the more established importers.   Erik's values are that of any serious railroader who likes the highest degree of realism in their models which others aren't interested in providing.   The thing to consider is not only are you getting all those extra "Bells and Whistles" you're getting his drive which is second to none. 
 
Do I have concerns over him taking on such an aggressive project, absolutely! Do I feel confident he can pull it off? absolutely!  
 
Originally Posted by nw2124:

If it takes to be a partner and make a deposit up front, than his drive and lighting package will be will worth it. I don't see Key or OMI offering these extras for the same price! I know that for some the price for brass is out of sight, but Key, Kohs, Midwestern Model Works, and Overland are getting enough orders to produce what is not available in a correct and qulaity model. Just my thoughts.

George/nw2124   "Progress - either you are for it, or get out the way!"

 

 

Mike DeBergMike DeBergOGR Forum Member
Not trying to slow anything down here, but also don't want others to believe Erik has officially announced an SD40-2.  I know he encourages everyone to let him know what high quality models they would like him to produce.  He is one of the few that really listens to what his customers, potential customers are asking for! When enough requests come in for a particular model that helps prioritize which models he'll run.
 
Agree that being one of his favorite locomotives, he will absolutely do one eventually and I have no doubts it will be the best SD40-2 ever produced in any scale.  Well maybe not 12"=1'.     I'm definitely in for some from Erik when they are produced.
 
However, In fairness to the other brass importers such as Key who have announced the SD40 series we need to be respectful to those that want to reserve the Key Models version.  Like with any other reservations if enough reservations are made the models will be produced if not, then the model will likely be cancelled. 
 
So, I would encourage everyone to take a look at each of the companies and their announcements and make the best decision for you.  Let the manufacturers/importers know what models/features are most important to you and make your reservations, requests known. 
 
Originally Posted by nw2124:

I have canceled my order from Key and ordered several from Erik. Sounds as he has all his ducks in a row as a business man. He even has a website to place a order.

George/nw2124   "Progress - either you are for it, or get out the way!"

 

Mike DeBergMike DeBergOGR Forum Member
superpower - Have you reserved those models yet? If so, from Key or MMW (Erik)
 
I know several others requesting C44-9W's/AC4400CW's so who knows?  Anything is possible. The SD70M and SD75M/I's could also be run again with such a small series of runs by OMI there would seem to be room to do more.
 
Originally Posted by superpower:

I'm interested in getting a snoot nose Santa Fe sd40-2 and a snoot nose SP tunnel motor. I like some of these classic body styles, however; presently I'm looking for some SP power in the form of c44-9w or sd70m.

 

S superpowerOGR Forum Member
Mike, I really like MMW's drive after seeing it last year in Indy. I don't know anything about Key's drive or running quality, but I hear they're like the old Samhonsga drive that was used in Oriental brass from the 80's. I'm still trying to figure which way to go. A few nice SP units are certainly a priority as I attempt to balance out my motive power. SD40t-2 is a must have over anything else.
 
After I satisfy my craving for a few old old school units, I would like some new school units (ES44's etc).I'll decide really soon.
 
Originally Posted by Mike DeBerg:
superpower - Have you reserved those models yet? If so, from Key or MMW (Erik)
 
I know several others requesting C44-9W's/AC4400CW's so who knows?  Anything is possible. The SD70M and SD75M/I's could also be run again with such a small series of runs by OMI there would seem to be room to do more.
 
Originally Posted by superpower:

I'm interested in getting a snoot nose Santa Fe sd40-2 and a snoot nose SP tunnel motor. I like some of these classic body styles, however; presently I'm looking for some SP power in the form of c44-9w or sd70m.

 

 

RN R NelsonOGR Forum Member

Likewise I am curious in regards to the quality of KEYs' drive.  Their Es that were on display at the show this past weekend look nice, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.  The drive reliability is paramount also.   I do see from the website, that a run of SD40-2s with  NS as a roadname are proposed.   I'd be interested to see if these will be the older NS lettering, or the newer NS horsehead repaints?   The KEY website shows no contact information.......

Mike DeBergMike DeBergOGR Forum Member
Travis,
 
So I hear ya! I'm the same way with Rio Grande from the 80's to mid-90's and the CN/IC present day. For me it's best to model something I see all the time!
 
IMO, Erik's drive is far superior to anything else out there.  I wish other high end importers would incorporate Erik's drive into their models.  Maybe someday? 
 
I'm not sure about Key's drive, perhaps someone else more familar with their most recent offerings can comment?  I have a vision of those unbelieable TV commericals with a 200lb person being pulled by a loco powered by Erik's drive and it still only drawing less than 1/2 amp!   I know it's just a vision, but if you promise to tell a friend a set of steak knives will be included with your order!
 
Just kidding!!!
 
Seriously though an incredible amount of engineering, machining and craftsmanship lead to the ultimate drive!!!
 
Originally Posted by superpower:
Mike, I really like MMW's drive after seeing it last year in Indy. I don't know anything about Key's drive or running quality, but I hear they're like the old Samhonsga drive that was used in Oriental brass from the 80's. I'm still trying to figure which way to go. A few nice SP units are certainly a priority as I attempt to balance out my motive power. SD40t-2 is a must have over anything else.
 
After I satisfy my craving for a few old old school units, I would like some new school units (ES44's etc).I'll decide really soon.
 

 

S splitwindowOGR Forum Member
Originally Posted by R Nelson:

Likewise I am curious in regards to the quality of KEYs' drive.  Their Es that were on display at the show this past weekend look nice, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.  The drive reliability is paramount also.   I do see from the website, that a run of SD40-2s with  NS as a roadname are proposed.   I'd be interested to see if these will be the older NS lettering, or the newer NS horsehead repaints?   The KEY website shows no contact information.......

Key's Drive's are very good, Large 9000 Pittman motors, Fly Wheels, Ball Bearings in the PA's, E's, and F units.  The SD40-2's will have Pittman 8000 motors, Fly Wheels, and Ball Bearings.  The drive Key is now using is based on a drive I developed years ago to re-power all my Overland Models.  Erik Stott has one of my E units with my drive in it and he was impressed with it's running quality.  Not in the same class as his drive of course, (Nothing is) but the best he's tested next to his drive.  His words, not mine.

 

There is no contact information on Keys web site because Dave wants the modelers to work with his Dealers.  

S splitwindowOGR Forum Member
Originally Posted by superpower:
Mike, I really like MMW's drive after seeing it last year in Indy. I don't know anything about Key's drive or running quality, but I hear they're like the old Samhonsga drive that was used in Oriental brass from the 80's. 

 

 

Key's Drive is not the old Samhongsa Drive which Key used for years.  I have lots of those old Key Samhongsa Diesels and in 20 years I've never had a problem with any of them.  They are very quiet and just keep running.  Keys new drive is better then any of the drives Key has used over the years.  Pittman motor, Flywheels, Ball bearings, etc.   

S superpowerOGR Forum Member
Originally Posted by splitwindow:
Originally Posted by superpower:
Mike, I really like MMW's drive after seeing it last year in Indy. I don't know anything about Key's drive or running quality, but I hear they're like the old Samhonsga drive that was used in Oriental brass from the 80's. 

 

 

Key's Drive is not the old Samhongsa Drive which Key used for years.  I have lots of those old Key Samhongsa Diesels and in 20 years I've never had a problem with any of them.  They are very quiet and just keep running.  Keys new drive is better then any of the drives Key has used over the years.  Pittman motor, Flywheels, Ball bearings, etc.   

Splitwindow,

Thanks for the info about the Key drives. What brand of motor did Key use in their older units before switching to Pittman motors? It is good to know that the older drives were quiet and reliable, and certainly good to know that the newer drives are better.

 

Travis

N nw2124OGR Forum Member

The Key new drives I believe are Overlands as Tom Marsh in helping Key with their Early E and SD40-2 projects. These drives do not run as smooth or can't out pull the MMW's drive, as their is noting close to it. I wish Key and Overland would use the drive and Lighting system. The MMW's headlight lens looks like the real thing! Check this out!

http://midwesternmodelworks.com/lighting/ I understand that Omi and Key were offered the drive and lighting system and refuse to go with a better product. SHAME. I hope I am wrong. 

George/nw2124   "Progress - either you are for it, or get out the way!"

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