LL and Walthers P2k GP-20 shells compatible?

[Autonerd]

Hi all -- I have a Proto 2000 blue box GP-20 (non-dcc-ready) in need of a DCC decoder. Trainworld has Walthers Proto GP20s with sound and DCC on sale for $130. I'm thinking I can buy a new one and swap shells, but does anyone know if the shells and chassis are interchangeable?

Thanks

Aaron

[TwinZephyr]

Not without some work.  Does your shell have working cab doors?  A newer mechanism may not have room for the hinges.  How does your shell attach to the mechanism?  Some use clips while others used screws.  The answers to these questions changed over the years and are likely to interfere with a shell swap.

[Water Level Route]

Contact Walthers. I asked a similar question about my LL Alco PA and the new PA's they just released. In my case, the hinges for the opening doors, as already stated, would need to be removed. Other than that, basically nothing had changed. Contact them to find out for sure though.

[Autonerd]

Thanks -- I found some dcc installation pages for the new GP20s and it appears they have changed the way the shells are attached. So I passed on the new GP20 and instead bought cars to start my NYC Great Steel Fleet. :)