N-Scale Alco C855? Made in Japan?

[Anonymous]

While unpacking my grandfather's rolling stock in preparation for coupler conversion I came across 2 unlettered massive diesels with 8 axles on 4 trucks. They have black, plastic shells (not brass). These had to have been purchased prior to 1991 when he passed. The closest proto I can find is the Alco C855 for which there was no real production.

Can anyone help identify the possible manufacturer of these and their approximate run date? Since the chassis is labeled made in Japan my first indication is obviously Kato, but I can't find anything on the net that refers to them making one.

[davekelly]

Is there a way to post a picture of this?

[Anonymous]

I do have a photo, however, it seems that I can't add it here. Looks like I need another site to post it to and then provide a link. Any help on THAT would be appreciated.

[M636C]

My recollection is that one of KATO's predecessors, I believe the name was "Sekisui", produced both UP Gas Turbines and one of the double engined diesel locomotives (which used the same trucks - not the same type but the same - the trucks from scrapped Turbines were used on GE U50 and Alco C855 units) operated by UP.

I thought the units Sekisui made were GE U50s, but I my be wrong in this. The GE units had a very short full width nose, with two large windows above it, while the Alco has a stubby but conventional nose with conventional cab windows beside and above the nose.

Some products were carried over, and Kato may just be the new name for Sekisui.

Hope this helps

Peter

[nfmisso]

Is this it:
http://www.all-railroads.com/instock/nu50.htm

[Jacktal]

C-855 in N scale?Sure would love to add it to my roster...but don't think any manufacturer ever made these.

[Anonymous]

Nigel, you hit it on the head - it's a GE U50. I guess it was a Con-Cor/Kato build. Thanks everyone for your help. I guess now I'm a little disappointed since I thought I might have had something. Now I have to get to work on getting these NS lettered. Thanks again! [:D]