SD40-2 vs SD45-2

[Anonymous]

Hello all
Wanting some expert information on the outward differences between these two EMD units. Can an SD40-2 model be easily modified to resemble an SD45-2? What type of modification would be required.
Thanks
John

[Anonymous]

I'm no expert but I can read and I have seen the two beasts. Two big things that stand out in my mind are that the 45 has much longer radiators and therefore much wider spacing of the cooling fans, and the body is much longer meaning you don't have the "porches" you see on the 40. There are other areas that are different that relate to railroads and year built but the body and radiators seem to be the most pronounced.

[tankertoad70]

As Dan mentioned there are some significant differences between the two. Although they ride on the same length frame, the 45-2 fills the entire frame whilst the 40-2 has the extended 'porches' on each end. The 45-2 also has 10 tall engine compartment doors on each side versus 8 for the 40-2, and the radiator section on the 45-2 is noticeably longer.
Yer best bet is to see if'n you can acquire one of the RPP SD45-2 shells. These fit the Athearn SD40-2 mechanism with minor mods and look respectable detail wise.

[Anonymous]

One thing that has not been mentioned is that the 45-2 does not have the flared radiator grilles like the regular 45, if I am not mistaken.