What manufacturers of F7 styled diesels carry Rock Island locos in all maroon? I see plenty in the black/red scheme and the "rocket" colors but none that are all maroon ala this photo: http://www.monon.monon.org/kankakeebr/ja-r596.jpg Reason why I ask is I model the NYC between South Bend and Chicago and wouldn't mind the opportunity modeling pooled consists on occasion with RI & NYC units in a prototypical manner.
Have you checked the Intermountain and Stewart line yet? I dont think that Athearn has done that scheme. But you could check thier website as they have pics of every road they have done so far.
DIY Perhaps it's time to break out the spray cans and make one of your own. I had to do the same with my N scale ICG unit. Had to have one, no one made one. It isn't contest quality but it's something no one else has on their layout.
To my knowledge no one has released the Rock Island F-units in this scheme. Floquil and Modelflex(?) make the RI maroon paint and Microscale makes a set of decals that would do this scheme. It would be nice if Genesis, Intermountain, Stewart, Proto or whoever would release more Rock Island F units in updated schemes. I model the Rock Island in the late 60's and early 70's and would like to see a release in the maroon/yellow wings scheme. I have painted several F's in the solid maroon with stripes and the yellow wings scheme but have been out of the paintbooth for too long now.....
Considering the Rock Island had as many variations on their maroon & yellow colors (or just plain maroon) as there are stars in the sky, you'd best served to get some Microscale decals & some paint, plus a pic of the Fs in question, and model one or two. SHoot, you could even get a UP F, remove the letterint, add the RI herald and a large plow on the front, and be correct