OK, so I guess you all read the Atlas/MTH announcement. There is still a lot to shake out, but the most important thing, from where I sit, is that Atlas will have a new production facility, and new items should be coming out more regularly. Also we should eventually get more out of the box 2 rail trains available. 1st, if they asked me, would be to get the Atlas SW's, RS-11's, and VO-1000/s done, along with RSD-15's and GP-7's that are supposedly already in the hopper. Then I'd like to see 2 rail Alco S units, and the E-8's for starters. But I guess we'll see.
As for MTH, so far it seems that we will be able to continue production with special runs of various items. Both myself, and a handful of other dealers, so far are helping make this possible. Whether it continues under the MTH banner, or a different name IDK. There are no guarantees for the future, but im optimistic. The people im working with, are great to work with, and always try to make things work, rather than say "we cant do that". Im hoping maybe someday we can do SW-1's, AS-616's, SW1500's, and a few more in 2 rail.
Right now I've contracted with MTH to do a special run for us of SW1500's in T.R.R.A and IHB, and RS-1's in Morristown & Erie and Black River and Western . Alas, they will only be in 3 rail right now. Something is better than nothing.
The consolidation of the production end of model railroading, has certainly left those of use who lioke doing special runs, a lot of opportunity. At least so far. We'll see how it all goes.
Questions?, comments?..... I guess most questions should go to the respective companies. Things are in a state of flux still, and even if i was told something yesterday, it might not be true today. Im glad to have had a nice relationship with Atlas and MTH over the last 20 years or so.
beth
