so my sdp40f came in broken so time to get a new one and return it now do i get a kato f40ph or f3a/b what would be better for the longterm i dont plan on dcc
The era you model would be a factor because the two models are decades apart. The F-3, 7s and 9s ran with the later GP7 and 9s and even the GP18, and GP20s. They also would have been found with the last of steam.
I would get which ever one you like best. My personal favorite is the F40. The SDP40Fs are great too, it sounds like you just got a one-off defective unit.
i got replacemet after replacement so 2 replacements all came either couplers broken or non functioing so i im buying a dif loco
One other factor might be what road name you want, especially if you're not looking to paint and decal yourself. I'd also suggest you look at replacing the couplers on the one you've got if that's all that's wrong. I've done plenty of installs and it is a fairly easy process.
AMTRAK didn't use F3's, they used a lot of E8's and FP7's. what era are you modeling and what region? The first generation diesels were replaced by the SDP40F, and they were replaced by the F40PH.
I wouldn't say busted couplers are a defective item worthy of sending something back, esp with replacements being so readily available and not very difficult to replace
Normally every Kato locomotive I have bought has been extremely well packed at the factory and it is unusual to have anything amiss in fact I have never had any issues except for Katos coupler which can occasionally come apart. I solved those issues with a simple replacement with a MT coupler front and rear. Most of them took the MT1015/16 which can be bought ready assembled or as a 10 pack that you have to assemble. Were these bought from a reputable dealer or were they bought used?
I've bought Katos and Atlases new and used and neither have any issues at all. Used ones I've bought off of eBay and at trains shows.
I don't think Kato USA sells direct on Amazon. They have their own web store. I suspect it's a third party. The product/item will say "By Kato USA" because, well, Kato makes it. But it doesn't necessarily mean it's being sold by them. Check your invoice/receipt.
Exactly. Let's not tarnish the names Kato or Amazon because some third party might be selling junk. Those are two fine companies that I value very much.