As far as I am aware, MTL does not make an observations/end of train car for their passenger consists, specifically in the ATSF livery. I invested in two MTL ATSF passenger sets long before AZL came out with their fabulous sets. So I’m trying to run what I’m already vested in. I am thinking about sourcing a MARKLIN observation unit and repainting/re-branding it to match the MTL cars, but am concerned the visual compatibility would not be there. I don’t have a MARKLIN car in-hand to compare with. Has anyone compared these two side-by-side or are there any comparison pictures out there? Or am I just chasing butterflies? Opinions?
While I can’t answer your question I do believe MTL made observation cars in UP. Unless I’m mistaken. Here’s one of mine.
I guess my terminology could be wrong. I think MARKLIN calls this as an “observation car”. I consider it more of an end of train passenger unit. Now you brought up another thought I forgot about as well. MTL also did not make the “domed observation” unit you demo’d in the ATSF livery either.
The era I’m working with is the early 1950’s as represented by this set. Sadly, MTL did not expand this offering very well to the true number of cars in operation. These sold very well and were in short supply instantly. But there were only four offered in the series.
Noted. Now back to the question of compatibility between what MARKLIN offers versus the body lines of MTL.
Lance, I have both from my dad's collection. One of the things that jumps out is the location of the trucks. The trucks are too far inboard. My dad had modified many Marklin rolling stock and passenger cars by moving the trucks outboard, and using MTL trucks. Scott
Thanks Scott, and well noted on the truck positioning. Part of this project would be to make that change by adding MTL trucks and couplers. But what is your opinion regarding the body lines? Close or not even?
Lance, I think you can make it work. I might have a dome car you can have. I'll post a picture tomorrow. Scott
I have the photos to answer your original question. From left to right; AZL lightweight, MTL lightweight and Marklin lightweight.
Thom, Thank You Sir for pullling the photos together. I'd say, there is close enough resemblence that a man could pull off a worthy match with the right paint technique and decals. Like everyone else on this forum, I'm up for yet another challenge...... Lance
Lance, Here is some examples of truck changes to Marklin cars. 1. Marklin trucks 2. Marklin trucks moved closer to ends of car. 3. MTL trucks in outward positions. Here is the Dome car I mentioned. Not sure if this is what you are looking for, but it matches the observation car you show above. PM me if you want the dome car. Scott
Scott, Yes indeed, I am somewhat familiar with the MARKLIN truck change-out to MTL’s, plus the relocation outboard as well. I have actually cobbled together all the parts necessary to do this on a MARKLIN caboose by using the ZELATORY truck relocation kit. It’s Z-scale PROJECT #229 on my ever growing list of things I am working on! I think you can relate….. PM has been sent regarding the dome car. Lance
