The MANUFACTURER is not an unproven one, nor is Fox Valley Models as the importer. FVM has an excellent delivery record and is very open about their schedule. The only project that has been hung up is the Brass Transfer Caboose series, and that is due to the fact that the wheelsets are so popular they are taking up all the production time from the same people that do the brass projects. Matt has been very up front about the delay and most everyone waiting for their cabooses are just as happy to wait when it means they can spend their money on Ribside Box Cars and other goodies. The GEVOs should be great runners. The mechanism uses proven technology and the builder is well aware of the need to use quality materials and provide proper fit and finish on the parts so they will run smoothly. A big advantage is that Matt "gets" N Scale and is on top of every aspect of the process. He's been test running the pre-production samples and is very happy with them. Plus, he doesn't want to embarass himself with his fellow N Scalers (two different clubs that he is personally involved with) much less his customers. As regards the utility of the Class A mechanism for anything else.... that would be no. There isn't that much gain in trying to morph one steam mechanism into another... the few cases where dimensions match are rare.... the CMStP&P S-3 (ironically!!), the CRI&P and D&H 4-8-4s share the same frame and boiler... but look entirely different down to the style of drivers, cab, tender, boiler fittings, etc. There aren't too many "generic" locomotives, and those that are belong to roads that aren't big sellers. It will be interesting to see what the next couple of BIG projects FVM comes up with following the sucess of the 1935 Hiawatha!!! Charlie Vlk
