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Post by stevef45 on Mar 15, 2015 19:58:21 GMT -8
Someone had posted overland hobbies preorder page for the Walthers ACe's. This is quoted from overland hobbies facebook.
" each model will feature the same motor/driveline that is currently mounted in their more expensive WalthersPROTO line, will be fully assembled, have directional lights...no comment is made in the announcement if the ditch lights will or will not be illuminated. For the value Soundtraxx sound and DCC equiped units...they will feature a 16bit quality sound, horn and short toot, bell, prime mover and three light functions. Minimum radius is 18: but recommend a larger 22" radius for prime operation."
They are coming in 6 paint schemes and an unpainted low headlight version. Each scheme will be availbe in 4 numbers, 2 for sound and 2 for DC. Roadnames listed for pre-order are BNSF 8400/8469-SOUND BNSF 8427/8492-DC ONLY
CSX 4831/4839-SOUND CSX 4836/4844-DC ONLY
KCS 4140/4173-SOUND KCS 4164/4199-DC ONLY
CN 8002/8021-SOUND CN 8008/8017-DC ONLY
CN are SD70M-2's and the drawing doesn't show rear ditch lights.
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Post by jbilbrey on Mar 16, 2015 16:35:57 GMT -8
There may be some truth to the SD70ACe's and GEVO's being this generation's F-unit. The problem with that comparison is that while at first glance all the SD70ACe's and GEVO's look the same, so why tool the differences doesn't work out as well when considers all the minor production changes that have been made. Unfortunately, the tooling changes equate to more money spent and therefore a higher MSRP. Still, we are looking another SD70ACe whose street price is $10 or so cheaper than Bachmann's and hopefully won't have the shortcomings and tooling shortcuts found in the Bachmann tooling. What was unusual [at least to me] was that the Bachmann's Wabash SD70ACe had a more accurately painted nose than the Athearn model.
As far as the comment on Overland Hobbies page concerning the ditch lights - "no comment is made in the announcement if the ditch lights will or will not be illuminated," that has been addressed on the Walthers page where it is stated that the model will include "Working Front Ditch Lights." For the NS [and possibly others] that have rear ditch lights, it will be up to the modeler to add that detail and figure out how to illuminate them.
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
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Post by jbilbrey on Mar 17, 2015 14:03:53 GMT -8
I want to see pictures of the actual engines. Atsfan,
The following .pdf has a photo of the pre-production model:
Walthers Preorder Flyer
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
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Post by atsfan on Mar 17, 2015 17:36:28 GMT -8
I want to see pictures of the actual engines. Atsfan,
The following .pdf has a photo of the pre-production model:
Walthers Preorder Flyer
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
Thanks! Looks promising. Handrails are iffy but it is pre production. I also hope the top and fans look Ok. No grab irons. But not molded on and with starting points. Fine with me for the price. This appears exactly like a product I was talking about to be made with nice details, but not enough to cost $300. Limited sounds but more than enough for most people.
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Post by jbilbrey on Mar 17, 2015 17:57:15 GMT -8
Atsfan, you're welcome for posting the link. As the saying goes, a photo is worth a thousand words. We now have a little better idea as far as what to expect from the model.
It actually looks a little better than I expected. I wonder if it will include tread detail since the walkway is molded a different color than the hood. I'm a little worried about the seam on the fuel tank, but that is nothing that a little putty and sandpaper can't take care of. Likewise, I am guessing that it will come with the "typical" Proto coupler box that will simulate the front of the buffer plate. Still, it looks like a nice "blank canvas" for a detailing project.
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
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Post by Donnell Wells on Mar 18, 2015 5:04:32 GMT -8
Hi James,
Looking at the image on the flyer, it does look like the walkway, hood, nose, cab, and radiator are all separate pieces. It's likely that there will be tread as the only other reason I can see for tooling a separate walkway would be to model the earlier units, and still be able to use the same hood (w/radiator) and cab. The number board is also a separate piece which leads me to believe that a some point Walthers will release an earlier SD70Ace.
So, like you, I am pleasantly surprised by what is shown on the flyer. I do like that the grabs are not installed, and the unit is as you described, a blank canvas ripe for customization! I am not worried about lighting or sound as I can add both myself. And lastly, the $129.98 price tag is much more affordable (in today's market) than the $275 - $299 retail that Bachmann is asking, meaning you get better value for your dollar for a product with similar or better quality!
Donnell
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Post by MONSTERRAILROAD on Mar 18, 2015 13:10:35 GMT -8
I am actually very very impressed by the step Walthers has taken. Check this out, if the model is even close to the quality of MTH and (what others think) Athearn, Intermountain and Kato well it will be a big hit for MANY people. It has the potential to be a hit for people wanting a higher detailed (not cheap) model and for people that want a cheaper priced model that looks decent. I would even purchase many for my layout if the quality is right there! So this model has the chance to make a statement in this hobby, a statement that says, "We can sell you a decent model for much less than expected". Over the past 5-7 years we have been forced to ACCEPT that a good model will always have a MSRP of $299, $319 or $329. Well this model right here will let us know if that truth still stands when it is released.
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Post by atsfan on Mar 18, 2015 13:47:37 GMT -8
I am actually very very impressed by the step Walthers has taken. Check this out, if the model is even close to the quality of MTH and (what others think) Athearn, Intermountain and Kato well it will be a big hit for MANY people. It has the potential to be a hit for people wanting a higher detailed (not cheap) model and for people that want a cheaper priced model that looks decent. I would even purchase many for my layout if the quality is right there! So this model has the chance to make a statement in this hobby, a statement that says, "We can sell you a decent model for much less than expected". Over the past 5-7 years we have been forced to ACCEPT that a good model will always have a MSRP of $299, $319 or $329. Well this model right here will let us know if that truth still stands when it is released. Atlas Trainman was in this sweet spot.
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Post by D Bradley on Mar 18, 2015 13:59:34 GMT -8
If they look on par to the Athearn ACes that I have, I will be picking up the KCS versions of these models.
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Post by jbilbrey on May 17, 2015 9:52:45 GMT -8
There have been additional photos of the pre-production Walthers SD70ACe posted on FB (via Norfolk Southern Model Railroaders) over the weekend. EDIT: These photos are apparently mis-captioned preproduction Genesis SD70ACe photos. Sorry for any and all confusion.
1. Apparently, the walkway was molded separately from the shell in order to capture the differences between the isolated and non-isolated cabs. The new photos show a different walkway with no diagonal line in front of the battery box. The resolution in the photos were good enough to see if the walkway tread is present.
2. Additional detail is now included on the fuel tank, frame, and trucks. This includes the overfill(?) pipe that originates from the center of the fuel tank on the conductor's side and runs forward and then down along the front of the tank. The inside sand lines are also present on both the frame and the trucks. "Something" (likely just a part of the truck gearbox) is present to simulate the inside traction motors, eliminating the "empty space" found on Intermountain SD40-2's.
3. The intakes under the D/B are molded open with the machinery visible inside is present. There is an open space under the radiator on the conductor's side, so presumably that intake will be open as well.
4. Starter holes are also present on the pilot end-plates. Also, coupler buffer plates are present. One the negative, the spare knuckle holders are present but molded to the end plates and thus appear flat.
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
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Post by atsfan on May 17, 2015 16:48:45 GMT -8
There have been additional photos of the pre-production Walthers SD70ACe posted on FB (via Norfolk Southern Model Railroaders) over the weekend. 1. Apparently, the walkway was molded separately from the shell in order to capture the differences between the isolated and non-isolated cabs. The new photos show a different walkway with no diagonal line in front of the battery box. The resolution in the photos were good enough to see if the walkway tread is present. 2. Additional detail is now included on the fuel tank, frame, and trucks. This includes the overfill(?) pipe that originates from the center of the fuel tank on the conductor's side and runs forward and then down along the front of the tank. The inside sand lines are also present on both the frame and the trucks. "Something" (likely just a part of the truck gearbox) is present to simulate the inside traction motors, eliminating the "empty space" found on Intermountain SD40-2's. 3. The intakes under the D/B are molded open with the machinery visible inside is present. There is an open space under the radiator on the conductor's side, so presumably that intake will be open as well. 4. Starter holes are also present on the pilot end-plates. Also, coupler buffer plates are present. One the negative, the spare knuckle holders are present but molded to the end plates and thus appear flat. James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN Hope to see the pix outside of that site at some point.
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Post by ddatrainman on May 17, 2015 19:56:47 GMT -8
There have been additional photos of the pre-production Walthers SD70ACe posted on FB (via Norfolk Southern Model Railroaders) over the weekend. 1. Apparently, the walkway was molded separately from the shell in order to capture the differences between the isolated and non-isolated cabs. The new photos show a different walkway with no diagonal line in front of the battery box. The resolution in the photos were good enough to see if the walkway tread is present. 2. Additional detail is now included on the fuel tank, frame, and trucks. This includes the overfill(?) pipe that originates from the center of the fuel tank on the conductor's side and runs forward and then down along the front of the tank. The inside sand lines are also present on both the frame and the trucks. "Something" (likely just a part of the truck gearbox) is present to simulate the inside traction motors, eliminating the "empty space" found on Intermountain SD40-2's. 3. The intakes under the D/B are molded open with the machinery visible inside is present. There is an open space under the radiator on the conductor's side, so presumably that intake will be open as well. 4. Starter holes are also present on the pilot end-plates. Also, coupler buffer plates are present. One the negative, the spare knuckle holders are present but molded to the end plates and thus appear flat. James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN Hope to see the pix outside of that site at some point. *Post edited, those photos were for the 09 release of the Genesis Model)
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Post by Donnell Wells on May 17, 2015 21:14:30 GMT -8
So far, I'm impressed...
Donnell
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Post by enginseer on May 17, 2015 22:50:41 GMT -8
Wow, for a pre-production model I like the direction they're heading!
Handrails look crap, but the stanchions might be thick enough to thread some brass wire through.
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Post by atsfan on May 18, 2015 2:41:08 GMT -8
Encouraging. Especially at the price point. I can live without grab irons which I imagine cost much to produce.
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Post by nsfantodd on May 18, 2015 3:54:16 GMT -8
Looks surprisingly good! Should run well...I will probably order one and check it out.
Todd
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Post by jbilbrey on May 18, 2015 5:08:17 GMT -8
Before we get our hopes up too much, the word is now that the photos are of a pre-production Genesis SD70ACe from 2009. I waited a while Sunday before making my post in hopes that if the photos were mis-captioned, someone would have said something. Apparently, I didn't wait long enough. Sorry to all for the confusion and getting a lot of hopes [including my own] up on the level of detail as well as some of the changes that might have been made. I was duped along with a lot of other model railroaders.
James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN
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Post by ddatrainman on May 18, 2015 5:29:39 GMT -8
Before we get our hopes up too much, the word is now that the photos are of a pre-production Genesis SD70ACe from 2009. I waited a while Sunday before making my post in hopes that if the photos were mis-captioned, someone would have said something. Apparently, I didn't wait long enough. Sorry to all for the confusion and getting a lot of hopes [including my own] up on the level of detail as well as some of the changes that might have been made. I was duped along with a lot of other model railroaders. James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN Same here, sorry for getting people's hopes up These photos are from 2009 for the Athearn Genensis intro duction forum.atlasrr.com/forum/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=57077 I don't know if these were posted on Facebook to troll or mis inform but those photos are NOT the Walthers model
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Post by atsfan on May 18, 2015 7:07:52 GMT -8
Before we get our hopes up too much, the word is now that the photos are of a pre-production Genesis SD70ACe from 2009. I waited a while Sunday before making my post in hopes that if the photos were mis-captioned, someone would have said something. Apparently, I didn't wait long enough. Sorry to all for the confusion and getting a lot of hopes [including my own] up on the level of detail as well as some of the changes that might have been made. I was duped along with a lot of other model railroaders. James Bilbrey LaVergne, TN Same here, sorry for getting people's hopes up These photos are from 2009 for the Athearn Genensis intro duction forum.atlasrr.com/forum/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=57077 I don't know if these were posted on Facebook to troll or mis inform but those photos are NOT the Walthers model Oh well.......
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Post by nightmare0331 on May 18, 2015 7:57:21 GMT -8
hey, on the bright side, we know the Genesis model is promising looking!
Enjoy!
Kelley.
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Post by stevef45 on May 18, 2015 20:07:52 GMT -8
some of us on that ns group questioned the model as it looked way to similar to an athearn ace.
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Post by D Bradley on May 18, 2015 20:47:02 GMT -8
I had pre ordered both of the stsndard DC KCS ACe models ,an I'm ready to see em.
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Post by calzephyr on May 20, 2015 7:13:53 GMT -8
I had pre ordered both of the stsndard DC KCS ACe models ,an I'm ready to see em. Trainworld has the pricing for pre-order on their email. 89.99 for non sound 139.99 for sound If they run well, these will be good for club layouts. Larry
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Post by D Bradley on May 20, 2015 8:41:14 GMT -8
I had pre ordered both of the stsndard DC KCS ACe models ,an I'm ready to see em. Trainworld has the pricing for pre-order on their email. 89.99 for non sound 139.99 for sound If they run well, these will be good for club layouts. Larry these things have great pricing an the pre production photo looks good to me so I was sold
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Post by calzephyr on May 20, 2015 13:36:41 GMT -8
Trainworld has the pricing for pre-order on their email. 89.99 for non sound 139.99 for sound If they run well, these will be good for club layouts. Larry these things have great pricing an the pre production photo looks good to me so I was sold It almost seems to be a give away considering even the limited value type of the sound unit probably is decent. If you add the grab irons and a few details, it probably will be a credibly model. Larry
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Post by D Bradley on May 20, 2015 16:00:01 GMT -8
these things have great pricing an the pre production photo looks good to me so I was sold It almost seems to be a give away considering even the limited value type of the sound unit probably is decent. If you add the grab irons and a few details, it probably will be a credibly model. Larry Exactly and when I get em I plan to add the TCS sound to em.
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Post by ddatrainman on Jul 15, 2015 14:26:31 GMT -8
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Post by atsfan on Jul 15, 2015 14:30:14 GMT -8
The BNSF roof looks odd, but probably the photo angle. But MAN, I am in as long as the drive is decent and not like the Bachmann Dewalt Duller.
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Post by ddatrainman on Jul 15, 2015 14:32:49 GMT -8
If it's like any of the Walthers Engines I've owned, The drive will be levels above the Bachmann dud
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Post by D Bradley on Jul 15, 2015 14:56:58 GMT -8
I like em makes me glad I pre ordered 2 of the KCS versions, an I can detail the model up.
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