1980s Williams SD40 replacement handrails

[RAVL]

Hello all,

I have a Williams SD40 from the 1980s that is in nice shape except that some of the handrails stanchions are broken.  The handrails are wire, but are connected to the body of the train by plastic stanchions.  I am wondering if anyone has any leads on where I could procure replacements.  Any help would be much appreciated.  Thank you.

[Firelock76]

If there's a hobby shop in your area that sells Williams products I'd try to order the parts through them.  I've gone to the Bachman/Williams website and found the parts reference section to be darn near impossible.  Very poorly set up compared to the rest of the website.

[ADCX Rob]

There are no parts available for these diesel shells that were manufactured by long-gone vendors several generations back.  Those handrails are quite susceptible to damage.

[RAVL]

I understand the engine is old but the reason I asked is that oftentimes there is someone who will have the parts in stock.  I know that these railings used to trade hands at York, but that was at least 10-15 years ago and I acquired some there the first time I needed them.  In any event, I figured it would be worth a shot.  I will try calling Williams (Bachmann) as they still make the SD-45 so perhaps there is a way the newer railings can work with the older shell.  At least outwardly they look the same but you never know. 

[ADCX Rob]

Let us know on that.  I have 3 SD-45s that would benefit from an update.

[rtraincollector]

Try this guy I have gotten parts from him before

Model Trains Outlet
5570 Chambers Hill Road
Harrisburg, PA 17111-2507 map
Phone:[phone]

[RAVL]

Thanks, I will give them a call.  I also ordered a diesel catalog from Precision Scale Co.  I am hoping that if your contact doesn't work out the catalog might have a handrail kit or parts that could be used to fabricate a decent fix. 

[rtraincollector]

Fabricating is another option to consider

[RAVL]

I wanted to update this post so others have sources of parts for Williams trains made prior to the Bachmann acquisition.  Model Trains Outlet (Charlie Phillips), cited above, is a great resource.

Another great resource is Frank Vacek (410-465-3782).  Frank also has a large inventory of Williams parts.  I dealt with him and he is a complete gentleman.  Hopefully others will find both resources useful if the need arises.