re: Athearn SP Bay Window caboose, I correct myself

[sparkingbolt]

I said in an earlier post that the new RTR Athearn BW caboose was longer than the kit. That was a mistake. They are the same, It was an optical illusion and hasty comparison. I hope this didn't mislead anyone. Both the kit and RTR are reasonably close rep's of the C-40-4, introduced in 1961.

But the RTR does have some nice improvements, the steps and ladders are painted, as are some of the hand rails (molded on the side, painted white). The RTR does have nicely glazed windows with the frames painted aluminum. There are "watch your step" warnings on the steps as well as other fine detail lettering where appropriate. The end hand rails are molded in more finely detailed plastic instead of just wire. It weighs 3 1/4 oz as compared to the 3 1/2 as "recomended", close enough for me.
Add a little weathering if you must, but it is RTR, if you keep the EZ mates, instead of Kadees.

It doesnt roll quite as freely as a car equipped with Kadee or P2K wheelsets, but I like just a little drag in a caboose.

I know there has been quite a debate about Athearn RTR vs kits, and believe me, I hate to see the kits go, but at least in this case, we're getting more for the extra price besides it being assembled. (cleanly BTW)
A little credit where due. [tup] Dan