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Post by MONSTERRAILROAD on Mar 29, 2015 18:14:23 GMT -8
I bought this autorack on February 8th and finally got around to reviewing the model. I decided to review this model after seeing the newer release Intermountain autoracks at Amherst Train Show. Just like many other people I was very shocked at their new MSRP of $96.95 which was up from about $68 for the first run just over a year ago. I can assure you of one thing I will not be running out to buy any of the new runs even at a phony "sale price" of $80-85 a piece! I would buy a few more at the lower price of $50-60 at train shows so that I am not robbed in shipping cost but otherwise this is an Autorack to own 1 or 2 at the price of $74 like I paid for this one. see the thing I say in this video that is true too is, with $97 Autoracks on the market it will automatically drive up the price of the first run so sellers will sell the first runs at the SAME EXACT PRICE as the new runs which will make finding first runs at reasonable prices VERY HARD TO FIND. If you noticed on Ebay, since the Flared SD7)M was released the 2001 SD70M engines are selling at much higher prices now due to the higher priced new runs. Well without further ado enjoy. P.S. I am hating this damn Sony Video camera too! The sound quality SUCKS!! I want my videos to be louder but this was the loudest I could get it! Maybe, JUST maybe it is an audio setting adjustment needed. When I put the shotgun mic on it then the sound gets all grainy! I am not feeling the love for this new camera at all. I will mess with the audio setting a few times before I just give up and sell it or give it away and move up to a nice Canon version that is equivalent in quality. THIS SONY VIDEO CAMERA AUDIO SUCKS! P.S.S - Funny funny, Explain this, HOW can a seller with the name Bigdiscounttrains1 on The "Bay" selling a Intermountain Autorack for $96.95 that has a MSRP of $96.95 be proud of the name BIGDISCOUNTtrains? Hmm. Watch it on Youtube |
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Post by Spikre on Mar 29, 2015 18:41:24 GMT -8
 Al, in the 80s Ford computers would catch fire and wipe out a whole rack full of new cars. maybe You can come up with a way to model that someday ? glad those racks are out of the time range here,but do wonder how EL would have lettered/decorated them ? no sound or DCC on these,the Prototypes are rather niosey when moving. Spikre 
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Post by bigb6flyer on Mar 29, 2015 18:57:53 GMT -8
And with the IM racks that expensive, the used and newer walthers runs are that more desirable. I'm sure they'll be going up in price too.
Brad
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Post by bigblow69 on Mar 29, 2015 19:31:45 GMT -8
And with the IM racks that expensive, the used and newer walthers runs are that more desirable. I'm sure they'll be going up in price too. Brad I stocked up on those a couple years back They were selling for $20 at Lombard Hobbies. Bought enough no need in my trains for such an expensive car. I wouldn't feel as bad kicking a $20 car across the floor than a $100 one. |
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Post by atsfan on Mar 29, 2015 19:42:33 GMT -8
I am not sure how many auto rack cars I have but enough for a long train.
So I decided not to jump into these and am sure glad since the sides are so bad and the price is........
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Post by bigblow69 on Mar 29, 2015 19:46:30 GMT -8
Cars are getting too expensive. Glad I bought enough discounted ones.
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Post by atsfan on Mar 29, 2015 19:53:24 GMT -8
What did you do for sound in that Kato Al ?
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Post by MONSTERRAILROAD on Mar 29, 2015 21:25:49 GMT -8
What did you do for sound in that Kato Al ? The Kato has a Tsunami Sound decoder in it. Which reminds me that the LEDs in that model were not Kato OEM lights but rather aftermarket ones I got a few years back. They have that sucky blue light. I will quickly change them out with my Monster LEDs soon though. |
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Post by sp8299 on Mar 29, 2015 22:50:12 GMT -8
Well, if the price tag of the IM rack is too much, you can always roll your own. Start with a Walthers bi-level, pop off the plastic panels, strip it (I don't believe the current RTR version of it has been offered in undec.), cut out the web between each post, fabricate a deck, install a Plano model products etched panel set, paint, then decal. For that, price wise you're looking at:
Walthers bi level auto rack - $47.98
Plano Model Products panel set - $26.00
Decal set (Microscale) - $8.00
Paint
(Trucolor, 6 colors: white for ends and interior, silver for roof, rack color, yellow for flatcar, thinner, and clear finish; 6 x $4.00) - $24.00
Evergreen styrene for deck, various sheet and strips (WAG on price) - $10.00
Subtotal: $115.98
I've been working on a Walthers trilevel off and on for awhile; the removal of the plastic between the posts was time consuming, delicate, and took lots of cleanup. On the decks, I cheated, and swiped decks from an old Custom Rail auto rack kit. The Plano parts are well engineered and fit perfectly, but it's a tedious process drilling the tiny mounting holes, and bending the etched parts. Not to mention the tedious task of painting and masking the interior and backs of the panels (one reason I haven't touched the project in ages), and the masking of the rest of the car.
YMMV.
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Post by drolsen on Mar 30, 2015 0:09:07 GMT -8
Walthers bi level auto rack - $47.98 Plano Model Products panel set - $26.00 Hang on - the Plano panels were designed to fit the original Walthers bi-level kit and don't fit the revised version. In the original kit, the 8 trapezoidal gusset plates (?) at the bottom of each side post were all equally sized, which is incorrect. On the revised model, Walthers corrected this detail, making the 4 middle gussets smaller, as they should be. Unfortunately, that means the Plano panels won't fit properly anymore (there will be a gap on either side of the small gussets). I completely understand why Keith doesn't want to revise the panels, since so few people are willing to do the work to use them. I have several of the tri-level panel kits and intend to use them eventually. In the meantime, I'll still look for good deals on the Intermountain racks. Dave |
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Post by sp8299 on Mar 30, 2015 0:25:19 GMT -8
Walthers bi level auto rack - $47.98 Plano Model Products panel set - $26.00 Hang on - the Plano panels were designed to fit the original Walthers bi-level kit and don't fit the revised version. In the original kit, the 8 trapezoidal gusset plates (?) at the bottom of each side post were all equally sized, which is incorrect. On the revised model, Walthers corrected this detail, making the 4 middle gussets smaller, as they should be. Unfortunately, that means the Plano panels won't fit properly anymore (there will be a gap on either side of the small gussets). I completely understand why Keith doesn't want to revise the panels, since so few people are willing to do the work to use them. I have several of the tri-level panel kits and intend to use them eventually. In the meantime, I'll still look for good deals on the Intemountain racks. Dave The Plano bi-level kit is made to fit the original WKW bi-level? Huh...didn't realize they were out that long! Time flies, as they say. And understandable if he doesn't want to revise them. Well, in that case, if you wanted to go the Plano route with the original WKW rack, much of what I posted would still apply, though you could probably get the original base car for quite a bit cheaper than the current version, but as drolsen said, you'd have to live with the inaccuracy of the gussets. So if you want see-through panels, it's either rebuild an older WKW bi level with Plano panels and live with inaccurate gusset details for about the same price (not including your labor) of the IM car, or go with the IM car right out of the gate. Otherwise, live with the current version WKW bi-level, which is a nice model, but lacks see-through panels. As I said before, YMMV. |
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Post by Brakie on Mar 30, 2015 4:33:28 GMT -8
Walthers bi level auto rack - $47.98 Street $37.99
Good enough for many of us right there..
Still not exciting enough for me to even think about a 15 car train for club use.
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Post by atsfan on Mar 30, 2015 4:45:57 GMT -8
Atlas auto racks have also seen serious inflation.
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Post by atsfan on Mar 30, 2015 5:36:36 GMT -8
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Post by kentuckysouthernrwy on Mar 30, 2015 6:34:22 GMT -8
Only one Autorack here, an old Walthers, I use it as a clearance check when building my layout. It does that quite well.
I didn't have any sound issues with your video Al.
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leikec
Junior Member
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Post by leikec on Mar 30, 2015 7:18:41 GMT -8
Another good reason to model the 1960's.  Jeff C |
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Post by riogrande on Mar 30, 2015 7:31:43 GMT -8
Another good reason to model the 1960's. Jeff C What autoracks are available for the 1960's? Uh huh. Thought so. So really it's a good reason to model the 90's cause there are nicely detailed models available. |
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Post by railmodeltroy14 on Mar 30, 2015 7:37:59 GMT -8
Al:
Thanks for the review on the Intermountain Auto Rack and Athearn Genesis SD 70's.
I am steering clear of both items on your recommendation and my own personal observations ( and concerns) over those two products.
I am quite happy with our auto industry train consisting of several Genesis/Ready-To-Roll Auto Maxes, Walther's latest Proto and earlier kit-style auto racks, Atlas articulated auto racks and Proto 86 foot box cars. I am constantly adding to that train as I see special deals at train shows and the new layout has been designed with sidings and yard storage long enough to accommodate trains of that length.
Lee
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Post by riogrande on Mar 30, 2015 7:49:37 GMT -8
I passed on the IMR Auto Racks as nicely detailed as they appeared to be, mainly because they are too modern for me. I have collected trains appropriate up to 1990, however, I am steering clear these days of rolling stock dated in the very late 80's (88/89/90) as I have been leaning earlier and earlier in my modeling interests (the earliest IMR autoracks may be dated around 1989/90 with the TT markings). What I really want badly are autoracks which are accurate for the ~1975-1985 time period - and there isn't anything "mass" produced which is accurate for that, out of the box. Hello Athearn, IMR, ExactRail etc!!!
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Post by Great-Northern-Willmar Div on Mar 30, 2015 10:06:14 GMT -8
Another good reason to model the 1960's. Jeff C What autoracks are available for the 1960's? Uh huh. Thought so. So really it's a good reason to model the 90's cause there are nicely detailed models available. Athearn is doing 60's and 70's open auto racks in the Genesis line www.athearn.com/Search/Default.aspx?SearchTerm=89+auto+rackYou also have the Accurail bi and tri-level auto rack kits. They need a lot of work to be in the Genesis level but they are still a 60's and 70's rack. |
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Post by TBird1958 on Mar 30, 2015 10:41:24 GMT -8
I can't wait for the Genesis ones, no doubt they'll get around to Tri Levels and various paneled versions too......... I love the '70s!
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Post by riogrande on Mar 30, 2015 10:56:17 GMT -8
The current Genesis version you reference, due in a couple months, is best for the 1965-1975 period although you could stretch them longer. I do plan on adding a couple but really I am specifically interested in something that is for the mid-1970's thru mid-1980's such as the open racks with side panels, or version of enclosed racks seen in the late 70's, often without ends, sometimes without roofs. The old autorack kits from Windmill/Custom Rail appeared to be earlier versions than the Walthers, for example, but they were not the best kits - I've seen very few indeed that were actually built. I have a few Accurail racks but many are only stand-in's and are on the wrong flat car etc. My assertion stands, the HO market is still in need of some good 1975-1985 semi enclosed autoracks, and early fully enclosed racks. |
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Post by MONSTERRAILROAD on Mar 30, 2015 11:47:27 GMT -8
The current Genesis version you reference, due in a couple months, is best for the 1965-1975 period although you could stretch them longer. I do plan on adding a couple but really I am specifically interested in something that is for the mid-1970's thru mid-1980's such as the open racks with side panels, or version of enclosed racks seen in the late 70's, often without ends, sometimes without roofs. The old autorack kits from Windmill/Custom Rail appeared to be earlier versions than the Walthers, for example, but they were not the best kits - I've seen very few indeed that were actually built. I have a few Accurail racks but many are only stand-in's and are on the wrong flat car etc. My assertion stands, the HO market is still in need of some good 1975-1985 semi enclosed autoracks, and early fully enclosed racks. I am sorry but I will not be doing a review on those models. They are not of my era at all. I saw the samples of the models on Display but I do not have the least bit of interest in that era so I have no interest in buying any to review. I do like the Intermountain model but at $97 now for the models that certainly does not make me want to buy any more. The Cost:Happiness ratio is way off!  I just upgraded my Nikon D5100 to the Nikond D7200 last week and it was an INVESTMENT for me at $1276 and $645 for the Tamron 16-300mm lens to take the best photos. I am investing into the photography part of this hobby too which includes layout photos and railfanning. BTW - I LOVE the new Nikon D7200!! It focuses and snaps pictures super fast! Super fast! The options on it are so far past my experience that i need to TRAIN to learn how to use it to the maximum at some point. MEANING by this summer when I go to Fostoria, OH railfanning! |
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Post by riogrande on Mar 30, 2015 14:45:54 GMT -8
No worries Al, I wouldn't expect you to review a model from the 60's and 70's when you are a modern modeler.  |
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Post by jlwii2000 on Mar 30, 2015 18:36:18 GMT -8
Several things to note after watching your video: 1. Quit calling me out I do review everything. Just kidding. I'm having fun with all this controversy people are trying to create. 2. In all seriousness, I am taking a break from reviews this fall and winter or at least cutting back. I have layout build videos to make and it is expensive considering I only recoup part of my funds once a year or so by selling the stuff I bought to review from requests of stuff I don't want. 3. If Intermountain wants these to sell really well they are going to have to fix the curved metal sides issues and possibly make the doors open easier. 4. Nice touch comparing the model to the prototype. I thought of doing that but was afraid of some person claiming it's their photo and starting some court room battle or legal claim. 5. My Sony drives me kinda crazy because of the 5.1 surround sound. Good on reviews, bad at train shows where it picks up every body talking all around more than the person in front or the model I'm showing. Take care dude. |
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Post by antoniofp45 on Mar 30, 2015 18:48:14 GMT -8
Al, thanks for your well detailed reviews. I'm amazed that while the detailing is impressive (and I saw many examples of the prototypes), freight cars (with shipping) are going for the same prices as some older run but "brand new in the box" locomotives! But I realize that's the price we pay for demanding prototype accuracy but it's no less painful on the wallet.
I see what you mean regarding the bowed grills. I hope that they do come out and you'll be able to carefully straighten them. Gluing them down might work but that looks like it would be tedious and if the glue doesn't have the long term holding strength, those grill plates might eventually pop back out into the bowed position.
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Post by railmodeltroy14 on Mar 30, 2015 19:10:16 GMT -8
Me personally, I just couldn't pull the trigger on the Intermountain auto racks even though a dealer at the last train show I was at was selling them for a great price.
You could plainly see that the side panels were just not quite right even with the car still in the box.
It's a shame since I've been extremely pleased with every single locomotive or freight car I ever purchased that was manufactured by Intermountain.
The latest Walther's Proto auto racks work fine for my era...and I just put them on the track with no modifications necessary.
Lee
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Post by lvrr325 on Mar 30, 2015 20:33:47 GMT -8
If you find the Intermountain car below $55, jump on it, it's below cost.
I havre a whole batch of the Walthers auto racks, didn't pay much for any of them, not too hard to find used or old stock if you poke around.
The problem with open auto racks is finding reasonably priced HO autos with enough detail to serve as loads, but not so detailed and fancy that it costs you $100 and up to put 15 of them on one car. What we need is something like the old Tyco HO Camaro and AMX, with a simple flat underframe panel and a generic interior added. Then pick a make and do two or three models in two or three body styles. They don't need to be die cast, they don't need to make the car weigh 5 lbs when loaded, they just need to be reasonably accurate in appearance for the part you see and generic enough to not look like open body shells for the parts you don't see. The Revell (later Con-Cor) convert-a-car set was perfect for this, except their choice of 1961 Chrysler products made all of them dated within a year. Choosing something like a 1971 Impala/Bel Air would at least give you a car that looked largely similar through 1976.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Mar 31, 2015 3:31:36 GMT -8
These would be great to use with auto loading facilities being modeled...with the doors opened...imo
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Post by MONSTERRAILROAD on Apr 1, 2015 15:21:20 GMT -8
If you find the Intermountain car below $55, jump on it, it's below cost. I havre a whole batch of the Walthers auto racks, didn't pay much for any of them, not too hard to find used or old stock if you poke around. The problem with open auto racks is finding reasonably priced HO autos with enough detail to serve as loads, but not so detailed and fancy that it costs you $100 and up to put 15 of them on one car. What we need is something like the old Tyco HO Camaro and AMX, with a simple flat underframe panel and a generic interior added. Then pick a make and do two or three models in two or three body styles. They don't need to be die cast, they don't need to make the car weigh 5 lbs when loaded, they just need to be reasonably accurate in appearance for the part you see and generic enough to not look like open body shells for the parts you don't see. The Revell (later Con-Cor) convert-a-car set was perfect for this, except their choice of 1961 Chrysler products made all of them dated within a year. Choosing something like a 1971 Impala/Bel Air would at least give you a car that looked largely similar through 1976. The LOWEST BIN price on the wack Bay is $62 plus the $12 shipping. (Lowest starting Bid price (1 model) is $50.00 w/$7.50 shipping) It will be MAD HARD for anyone to find these autoracks available for under $60 especially since having $97 MSRP autoracks out there. If someone had a set of 10 IM Auotracks from the first run at the cost of $50 a piece (Which would have been very likely with the original MSRP of $68 1 1/2 years ago) He/She would KNOW that they could make money if they were in perfect condition today. At this point He/She could sell them for $60 and they would sell. That would make that person $100 profit. In MOST cases that does not happen with rollingstock unless there is a new interest in the particular car after a "New release" with significantly higher MSRP, such as the new IM autoracks OR in the event there was a very small amount produced in the first place and the company will never produce anymore. As I said in the video, for $70+ I will not be buying any more of those things but at a used priced of $50 I would buy another one or two and at this point it is very UNLIKELY to find them at that cost anywhere especially from a dealer who KNOWS of the new $96.95 MSRP. He/She will definitely raise the price of any older run versions to reflect the newest runs price for the UNSUSPECTING BUYERS not knowing if the model is a 1st, 2nd or 3rd run model. I have seen many dealers deceive people by selling earlier run models as "New" and put prices on the earlier run models to reflect the NEWEST MSRP prices. For Example the dealer would have a 2005 Kato AC4000CW in the box and then have a "Sale price" of $139 on a sticker that is also showing MSRP at $199. But the model is a 2005 run that had an MSRP of $149 (example price). Now to the unsuspecting buyer who knows about a newer AC4400Cw model selling for about $140 online thinks he/she is getting a deal which in reality he just paid almost full MSRP on a used model from 2005. Sad but I see it all the time at train shows. |
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