Does anyone make a VIA Rail EMD F40PH with the exception of Walther Train Line? I dunno about Walther Train line running quality either. Today I saw one (Walther's VIA Rail) beside a KATO F40PH (AMTRAK) and the details were much better than the one from Walther. How does Walther rate vs Athearn running wise? Also, when did VIA Rail started using the F40PH? Anyone?
Hi. I suspect both models will represent a US prototype. i can't say offhand how they differed from Canadian locomotives, but I'm sure they did. Typically. I can say that you will be much happier with the detail and running qualities of the Kato unit. I have several Kato locomotives, and I like them all, even the SD40-2s with their electrical issues. They easily are on a par with Atlas, and better than Proto or Athearn or other manufacturers of HO diesels. (I should qualify this by stating that I don't any Stewart locomotives, so I can't offer an opinion there.) Walthers models, at least before their acquisition of LifeLike, are aimed at the "trainset" crowd. They are basic, inexpensive models for newcomers who aren't concerned with prototypical accuracy or fine running characteristics. You pay for what you get here. It's your choice. Cheers Scott Fraser Calgary, Alberta
