http://www.micro-trains.com/nr-1108_MILW.php Is it legit? Is the number good for end of electrification timeframe?
No it is not protype. The MTL bay window caboose is a SP prototype. If you are looking for a MILW baywindow prototype, wait about a month or 2 when FVM releases their MILW ribside baywindows. The MILW ran those right up until the end of the 1980 embargo.
If you wanted one to run and be especially later years main line use, any of the FVM 1951 built versions should be good.
The number series is good and matches the description........it would have been from the last batch purchased in 1973. The paint also seems to be correct, and they were smoothsided, not ribside, but the bay window is not correct and the caboose should have 2 windows in each side.......if you added the windows it would be passable. Noone else makes anything close, so I bought one anyway, but I'd agree on saving for the FVM ribsides.
It could be made passable. Needs a smaller logo, ACI label, roof top generator. Was there a third window on the side where the head was located? Seems like there should have been. Also, does the MT have end or door windows? Betcha someone such as Marty Coil will turn out a MILW version....
If my pics are correct, then there wasn't a third window on this series, but I'm not certain I'm seeing both sides. I also show thermal electric generators and axle mount generators (neither of which the MTL car has). The MTL car has a door window and a single end window, which is what the prototype had, but the end window is a little too small. I think the logo is probably OK, but looks off because the window is too tall and low.
