I wasn't even aware that Model Power made F units in HO scale. I see that they are available with DCC and sound, anyone had any experience with these. I searched for info without luck.
Ted, Seems to me they made them a ways back. I haven't seen any in todays world but that doesn't mean they aren't out there. May, I suggest you stick with name brands that have built a good reputation for themselves. They will serve you better in the long run. I did an oogle google search and found a resource for you. You will need to send me a e-mail so I can avoid the auto censoring devices here on TB. All in good faith but limits the ability to discuss things a bit more openly. Here is one resource I can share with you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvZKqnqsSrg Opinions shared would all but duplicate mine. Enjoy!
Thanks Rick, there is a current etailer listing them, as you say though, can't mention names, it just struck me as amazing that these were available, and at a good price. I have recently purchased severall Bachmann DCC/sound locos and am very pleased with them, thought maybe the Model Power Units might be a surprise as well. Primarily, these are for a display layout, so delicate details are not needed, but a good solid runner is.
Couple years ago I used a recent-run Model Power chassis, DCC plug equipped, with an old F unit shell from my childhood. Having access to this chassis jump-started my project to rebuild and power my fleet of three BN F units I fitted an appropriate soundtraxx TSU1000 and speaker Very heavy chassis - good puller Zero electrical problems with all wheel pick up no derailments, and really no problems of any kind.
A few years ago when I got back in the hobby (2009) I bought a Model Power GP9 on ebay. What can I say? I didn't really know Model Power from Kato at the time and it was at the right price. I call it "the coffee grinder" because it's so noisy, but other than that is is a good, solid, super-reliable runner. Other than the noise, my main complaint is that it is too light to pull many cars without spinning its wheels. It does have all-wheel drive and all-wheel pickup though.
That video was it! My version came from a neat-o military set complete with little green men almost appropriately scaled to HO. The Metal Train label I remember. The unit is hefty. The chassis is thick. The motor, powerful and silent. The flywheels massive. Smooth runner with today's latest methods. Get one.
Based the model power site, it's an F2 which I don't. Think is made by anyone else. The msrp is pretty nice. Would be worth it for a decent mech.