With the impending FVM release of phase I GP60's, I decided to resurrect a project I started roughly 9 years ago but then shelved for whatever reason. I figured if I don't finish it now, I never will once the FVM units are out. I only hope it will hold up OK next to the FVM units! Here's the original build thread from 2007... http://www.trainboard.com/highball/index.php?threads/phase-i-gp60.32565/ I used a Lifelike DRGW GP60 as the starting point. I replaced the short hood with one from an Atlas SD60 shell and filed the notch in the nose for the headlight.... The dynamic brake blister was heavily modified to better represent the angles and curves of the phase I units. The side grids were taken from I believe an Atlas GP40 shell (it's been a while!).... Access door added on Engineer's side... Fireman's side.... Fresh paint (my dwindling supply of PollyScale) and Microscale decals added.... Here's the unit essentially finished.... I will need to modify the left side long handrail to accommodate the extended elevated walkway over the blower duct and I see I forgot to add one of the antenna conduits. Otherwise, it's all done (except for probably adding a decoder at some point). Thanks for looking!
That is a beautiful model. If you ever end up lashing it up with some FVMs, you need to make sure 9601 is always on point! -Mike
I really like that you added the reporting marks on the front anti-climber. It's the little things that make the big difference.
Great looking loco! How did you attach the handrails? Did you have to disassemble the original hand and then rework them?
Thanks for the comments, guys! Hansel, except for removing the blower duct housing guard plate, the handrails are all original, unmodified LL GP60 handrails that are simply press-fit into the original mounting holes. However, I do still need to modify the left side long handrail to accommodate the tool box/elevated walkway extension I added to the end of the elevated walkway as per SP spec.
Very impressed! You did a great job in that locomotive. Would definitely amaze even the most picky rivet counter!
Impressive! I also super-detailed a Santa Fe LL unit. I did not paint mine, but added sound decoder, windshield wipers, uncoupling levers, grab irons, air hoses, brake hoses, lift rings, see-through fans and operating beacon. Nice job!
Thanks Eagle2 and gatrhumpy! gatrhumpy, what sound decoder did you install in yours and how much did you need to widen the inside of the shell? My initial measurements seem to indicate there is not near enough room for anything currently available. Also, please post or link pics of your GP60 if you can and don't mind. Would love to see it!
Thanks subwayz and dak94dav! The GP60 is a favorite loco of mine too, along with to the SW1500. They just look good!
