FVM vs Kato

[railfan4life]

Now that both Kato and Fox Valley Models have had their SD70ACe's and GEVO's out for a while I was wonder what people thoughts are between the two companies engines. Comparison of performance, smooth running, ease of converting to DCC, and details. Any thoughts?

Thanks

Kevin

[wmcbride]

I think the pluses of the FVM units is the ease of DCC installation with the 6-pin, plug-in decoder installation (just remove the top, rear of the shell versus the whole shell), the painted safety/handrails, painted steps, safety decals, etc. My FVM GEVOs and SD70ACe's tend to be a bit more noisy than the Kato but it's not that much. Also, one can add a Loksound decoder fairly easily to the FVM GEVO's compared to both of the Katos.

I think the Kato GEVO's seem a bit more plain in details. In terms of decoration, my FVM CP units have a more correct red AND the black railings are black not all red plastic like the Kato.

This said, I have both. I returned my FVM Reading heritage unit since the yellow was just almost like a CNW Zito yellow. Really bad. Both are great pullers

For the best prices on FVM engines, see www.lombardhobby.com.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any questions or need photos.

Are you thinking of branching out from that awesome HO layout?

Bill McBride

[jonklein611]

I have a Kato ACe, very easy to swap boards for DCC conversion. Couldn't be happier with it.