I know that sounds a little backwards. But, I've been dabbling in Z-scale, and AZL recently did a sale on undec SD70's (spartan cabs) and I bought one with the idea that I might convert it to an Oakway SD60 or possibly EMD3 or some other scheme. There are no SD60's available in Z. (at least in plastic, there might be some in brass but I'm not familiar with what's available) I initially just thought about leaving the loco as-is and just painting it to suit, and I may still do that. But, I thought I'd throw it out here and see what I can learn. So I guess the question is, how would you go about it if you were to attempt such a conversion? SP8299 shared the following on another thread about the differences between the two locomotives: Couple of thoughts, just for discussion's sake... 1. Not sure of the feasibility of attempting to remove the 14" of length difference, or even where that 14" comes from. I would expect that the chassis would not be affected as they usually have enough leeway, but I don't know that "fer sure". 2. The obvious killer characteristic is the blower bulge/blower duct/etc. I really don't know much about that but it comes up over and over when discussing the differences. I need to do more homework. 3. I'm not sure about rearranging doors and battery boxes. Part of the shell is brass inserts I believe, so trying to mash that all up could make a big mess in a hurry. 4. Not sure how handrails are affected in any scenario. As you can see from the above, I'm not super knowledgeable about either of these locos, (I don't know what I don't know) and the argument could easily be made that I should just paint it as-is in an SD60 scheme and call it a day. But, if anyone is willing to take a stab at it, well it should be a fun exercise if nothing else. Thanks for playing...
Oops, forgot to comment about the trucks. The benefit of doing EMD3 is that it was fitted with the HTC-R trucks at one point as a precursor to the SD60MAC's I believe. So that would make it more feasible although again I'm not sure it isn't something I couldn't live with regardless. I would really prefer the standard Oakway scheme.
The blower duct is a common feature on EMDs starting with I think the GP20. Started out as a half circle buldgr, but is most commonl a rectangular sheet metal bulge behind the cab on the fireman's side. On older units, the top of the housing is rounded. On Gp/SD40s, 50s, 60s built after 1983, it is a sloped housing. On the 70, it is a rectangular box. Do note that the 70mac retains the angled housing of the 60.
