Ron,

The new Athearn RTR model being discussed is a SD40 and not a SD40-2. The Missouri Pacific numbered ones they are selling were built in February 1969. I would think only a few minor changes would get an accurate 700-719 that you’re looking for.

I’ve had enough former Mopac employees tell me that the Mopac would occasionally run unit grain trains with 6-axle locomotives from Atchison to Concordia on my line and is a good excuse to include the model. Even today the KYLE runs SD45T-2s and I have photographed U30Cs in the past on the same rail. From my understanding the issue was the 6-axle trucks on the steam-era turnouts. They had a habit to stress and tear them up.

I’ve got one of the 3039 on order and look forward to receiving it. Here is a link to the announcement. I placed an order with Spring Creek Models where I was able to find a good price on it.

http://www.athearn.com/newsletter/092515/03_RTR_SD40_092515.pdf

Nate

@mopacfirst wrote:

Pardon me for taking this discussion down to 4-year-old level, but where can I get an SD-40 (not a -2)?

These would be the 1967 order, 700-719. They’re really still too late for me, and they weren’t permitted on my division as far as I know, but I’m curious.

Ron Merrick