Converting F40PHs to "Cabbage" cars

[Anonymous]

I remember reading in an Article in Trains about the cab/baggage cars being made from old F40PHs. One was shown on the Downeaster. My question is two parts: What is the best way to make these in HO and N scale? And, secondly, are these used on just the Downeaster or are they more widely used? Thanks!
Gavin
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[Anonymous]

If I remember right, They were nothing more than a stripped out engine, but they needed the contols for heading the other way. and they added baggage cargo doors to them for baggage and cargo. So you should be able to make one out of a F40PH, I think you can get a Life-Like one for ten-twelve bucks at a train show,. add the cago door and detail or paint as needed. Not sure were they are used though........Jamie

[dknelson]

We see them all the time here in Milwaukee on the Hiawatha service betweeen Milwaukee and Chicago
I think they are also used in Michigan in trains originating in Chicago. The door is like a large PikeStuff garage door-- I doubt if they ever really use if for baggage. The engines are renumbered into a series beginning with 9 and a few other differences between a real F40PH. The lack of traction motors is very visible on a side view.
Dave Nelson

[Anonymous]

I live in a city that the Downeaster serves so I can provide a little info. There is 3 red marker lights above the cab used when the train is going the opposite direction, the ditch lights flash for 15 seconds when the whistle is blown, the interior is used to haul bikes in three stations that offer bike service (Portland ME, Wells ME, and Boston MA.) The M.U. doors on the front plow are always kept shut, there is two flashing strobes on the roof that flash back and forth, and I believe they have a K5 airhorn.

Hope that helps a little.