How good are the LL GP18s? I'm just getting started on my first layout and got a LL set at my local HL store (primarily b/c it was 70% off), and plan on bashing away at it. Not looking at spending a fortune on a hobby at this point in time, esp. when I don't get to spend a lot of time with it. But should I look at getting a different loco in the near future?? Thanks.
I've got a couple of these, and they run fine; not up to Atlas or Kato standard but I'm really happy with them. I wanted Susquehanna units but couldn't get any here in the UK so I've got to do a nose job and repaint. If I needed more I'd get some ConrailPete Conrail lives on in the UK
I've got 1. Runs just fine. I'm a real LifeLike GP-20 fan. I currently own 9 (4 ATSF, 2 BN, 3 Pepsi).
I have a LL GP20 (N&W) on the way. Can't wait to get it! I'm also considering a LL GP18 or SD7 in N&W. Any comments as to which is better?
The LL SD-7 is definately a better engine as it has dual flywheels and better pick-up design. I would put the better GP-20 mechanism in the GP-18 body, as it too is better with good flywheels and pick-ups.
Thanks for your input! I just put an order in for the SD7. I'll also keep your suggestion in mind about the GP18 body on the GP20 mech for a future project. I assume it will fit without any major modifications?
i have been staying away from the GP18 because I think it has the plastic frame and drive like my old GP38. I have a GP20 which is a very nice runner. Does anyone have a list of which LL loco's have the split frame?
I got one of these as a thank you gift from a fellow modeler who I referred an estate purchase to. Thinking it was a typical Lifelike, ok runner, I put it on the track for a test run purely out of curiosity. That little locomotive ran so smoothly I left it on my track thinking the prior run was only a ruse. I was extremely impressed as to its scale credibility and performance. It was smooth running, quiet, powerful and had a speed range of barely see it crawl to about 130 smph. If you have a chance at one, get one. Remember they aren't Atlas or Kato's but good enough to run on anyone's layout proudly. Ken "Steamguy" Willaman
3 cheers for the Geep 20!! I have 4, 2 BN, 2 CB&Q. I LOVE the slow speed performance these Geeps provide. They are nothing less than astounding! Just imagine them in MU with DCC...........
That old LL GP-38-2 was not bad for what it was. with a little work it ran well and it couldn't be beat for Price.
I have an E8 (LL) with the plastic frame (in full-blown Frisco colors) and, amazingly, it runs well. I did notice, however, that the BL2 has been re-issued with the metal frame, so I wonder if LL would ever re-issue the GP18 with a metal frame.....and perhaps body-mount couplers? Until then, you'd be better off, if you wanter to switch chassis, to user a GP20 chassis and get a M-T conversion kit for the pilots. And I guess if the handrails bother you, change 'em out with LL's GP20 handrails. Personally, I'd like to get a couple of GP18s myself, paint scheme no problem. Anybody got any good ones that need a new home???
I have a problem with a LifeLike SD7/9. I removed the shell to install new couplers on the pilots, and when I replaced the shell, the locomotive binded up (bound up) and did not move. When I removed the shell, the mechanism ran perfectly. I so far isolated the problem to the shell's nose and have ground down the inside plastic to an incredibly thin wall, and it goes on loosely and it still happens. What goes here? Has anyone else had a problem like this?
Steamguy. I have 4 LL SD-7's. 2 of them had the wrong couplers so changed them to Microtrains. I had no trouble when I put the shells back on. Wish I could help you. Maybe some of these other members that have more experience can help you.
The only problem I had with my SD7 was with the metal weight/gearbox covers moving around on me. And that wasn't that bad. It seems like a real nice loco but it is the only one I have.
I've got one with exactly the same problem, Ken. Worked fine, put MTs on it, ran fine without shell but will not run at all with shell on. I finally put in my "dead" pile. Maybe I'll get ambitious one of these days and try "fixing" it again.
Had the same problem with mine when I took it apart to paint it and re-coupler it. I fiddled with it for about 15 minutes trying to get it back together right and found that the body has to be just right on the frame. Because the frame is plastic it wants to hump up when the body goes on. You guys keep at it. Eventually it will go back together right. After all, it worked before you messed with it right?
Sounds like it's time to pester LL to re-release their GP18s and SD7s with metal chassis. After all, they did that with the BL2.
the newer LL locos with the split frame are really getting close to Atlas. Nice runners and nice detail as well. I currently have 14 of the newer LL locos including all Canadian C-424. However, I don't understand why they are not DCC ready. In my opinion that's a major drawback. have fun Sandro
