Modeling a GP35

[Anonymous]

I'm looking to model a GP35 Rock Island in the burgandy and yellow paint scheme. I cant seem to find one already painted, so what will work. Is the GP30 close enough that you cant tell the difference or should I use a GP40. I really like the GP40 from Atlas seeing how they already have the decoders installed. I'm a been in the hobby before but got out for about 20 years. I made the mistake of going back to a hobby shop. "Just to look around" Now I'm hooked again. The detail and quality has sure increased. Appreciate any help you can give. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

I would look on ebay for a GP-35 and stay away from other model engines. But if you want to go the close enough route, I would buy a GP40 instead of a GP30. The GP30 has a differen hood design, the GP40 would look closer to a GP35.

The reason I mention ebay is, you could pick up a used/new Kato GP35 and strip the paint off and repaint in the RI scheme. This way you would have an actual GP35 and a good quality engine. The newer run of Kato GP35s have the NMRA 8 pin plug in them so DCC hook up would be easy.

[Anonymous]

Rock Island never owned GP30's and the design is way different from that of a GP35 or GP40. Kato makes a great GP35 and Athearn is releasing a new GP35 soon.

[Anonymous]

Although they are getting tougher to find . . Rail Power Products made a pretty decent GP35 shell that would fit on an Athearn frame.

[bogp40]

Why not wait to see what Athearn comes out with on the GP-35. The Kato GP-35 is a very good running and detailed unit though.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the tips guys. I also found out this week that there is no diffence between the GP40 and the GP40-2 when it comes to models. I'll be sure to call the hobby store to see what kind of discount I can get when the close up.

[Anonymous]

Actually, there is quite a difference. I wont get into details but you're better off getting a GP40. I think RI did have GP40-2's but they were upgraded from GP40's.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Guilford350

Actually, there is quite a difference. I wont get into details but you're better off getting a GP40. I think RI did have GP40-2's but they were upgraded from GP40's.

I agree. A GP40 and GP40-2 are the same length, have the same number and size of radiator fans, and everything is located in the same location, so they are generally the same, especially when compared to a GP35 (which is shorter, has 2 large and one small fan). But there are still some differences between the two (and there are also some differences between different GP40s).

---jps