BRASS engin is it a good one

[Budliner]

I have a halmark models EMD GP-38 an a brass SD24 shell only
I have seen a price tag on the box for $69 us my questionwas
" is that an old price, how long has the brass engins been around,how much is the emd go for asI did not see them when I was 15 in the 70's
is it somthing that started in the 90's
this one is HO and is old in the box new kinda never used


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[AntonioFP45]

Budliner, sounds like you're in my age group.

I remember that there were many beautiful brass models produced from various companies. Back in 1977-79 nearly all brass diesels I saw were $300 and up (though you could catch them on sale at times), so if in good condition $69 is not bad. On the plus side, the heavier weight of flywheel equipped brass engines allowed for increased pulling power and greater low speed control.

The only complaints I would hear about would be about noise. (I heard horror stories about the brass HO U50) I don't know if its the motor, trucks or a comination of both. IMHO, if you really like the way the units look and the body detail looks realistic, go for it! Check to see if the radiator fans and side grills are "see through" as the more expensive brass diesels had these features.

Today's locomotive repowering kits, low amp motors, and precision gears make the noise problem almost insignificant, but you must ask detailed questions when contacting a company like A-Line. They're very helpful.


You would have to find a six axle chassis for the SD24, such as an Athearn SD9's or an Atlas SD24. Hope this helps amigo! AFP45

[Budliner]

wow thats sounds like some good things to look for, I hope it pulls like a champ, I did see a switcher same maker and it went for $299.99, I do have a atlas with a cracked shell that I just repaired . I will love to see the sd24 come alive and thanks for the info AntonioFP45 next I need to fine some rolling stock !!! and have no clue. I have never had one in hand. I got the bug for trains (again) 6 months ago and now have no less that 20 engins and 30 cars so I have to look befor I leap.
B -

[Anonymous]

If it's brass it's good. (I think) I never had a Brass to expensive for me[:(]

[Budliner]

CNWfan5525 its not to bad just start collecting one at a time you can get deals under 100



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[areibel]

I think if you repower it you should have a great locomotive!
There were a couple reasonably priced brass makers in the 70's, like Hallmark and Alco models. They looked great compared to my trusty old Atherns, but ran much worse- guess that's how they saved money on them? Anyways, go to NWSL.com
and start shopping! Start with at least a can motor, maybe a gear set- then it'll run as good as it looks.

[Budliner]

areibel you are correct the engin is a dud it has no power and it looks like its fake brass. or its painted to look tarnished. I have a atlas that fits in to the shell fine .but watch out for the lowcost fake brass locos worth $10

[AntonioFP45]

Budliner,[8)]

[?] In stating that it's fake brass do you mean that it has a metal body, but it's not brass?
[;)][8D]Don't be discouraged as an airbrush can perform wonders on model locomotive shells.

How's the detail on the body? Are the grills & radiator fans the type that you can see through, or are they solid like on an Athearn? Please let us know.

[;)] Additionally, companies like Details West make many items that will dress up any HO locomotive. Hopefully you live near a reputable model railroad shop that can give you pointers. Take your shell and visit the shop. If they're good with customers, they will provide you with some good "pointers". [swg][swg][tup][4:-)]

A friend of mine took an old Tyco GP20 shell that was in "rough" condition. After adding detailing, a paint job and Microscale Decals, It now looks as nice as an Atlas unit!

[nfmisso]

QUOTE: Originally posted by CNWfan5525

If it's brass it's good. (I think) I never had a Brass to expensive for me[:(]

Brass is NOT necessarily good, but is almost always expensive.

I have a few brass locomotives, and have sold some acquired over the years. You can often find the lower grade brass diesels for under $100 on e-bay. A few have okay shells and detailing, most have drivetrains that need major work. It is often cheaper to put a good "plastic" chassis under these, like Atlas, PPW, etc.

edited due to BW's comment [8D]

[BentnoseWillie]

QUOTE: NOT

Is that brass is not too expensive, or not all brass is good? [:O)]

Nigel has a point - some of the older brass diesels had major drivetrain issues, and in many cases were grossly inaccurate. The old Alco models RS18, for example, had details from several different batches of RS18, and didn't represent any one batch accurately.

Still, if the shell is good you can fix the drive...and it's been a long time since you could buy any brass diesel new for $USD 69!

[BentnoseWillie]

QUOTE: Originally posted by nfmissoedited due to BW's comment [8D]

Gotcha [:O)][:P][}:)]

I'm sure he'll get me back eventually...

[acpardo]

A friend of mine has a U30CG..... the worst...is like a lawn mover...

not like the new overland with bueheler cans..

adrian

[AntonioFP45]

Good input guys, just one thing though: [;)]

[:)][^]Remember that when BuddLiner does respond to this thread, let's try and give him "help that will encourage him!"

Peace out, God Bless!

[Budliner]

"AntonioFP45 In stating that it's fake brass do you mean that it has a metal body, but it's not brass?"


ok yes it is brass but looks like it was painter to look tarnished the two shells have some pressed in detail like doors and the fans are solid I paid 35 for one shell on the bay but the full unit will not run and needs a redo for sure the gp-38 has less parts on it and looks like someone got to it and scalped some things I did use ooo steelwool on the motor mount and it looks like brass under paint but must be some crapy brass or why paint it to look old so watch out fot the low end I could have easly paid 150 for it

BentnoseWillie yes it looks like good detail but I am new again after 20 years out but I think the drivers ar very bad has some crazy driveshaft between the trucks
and looks like thats too small hopt the steam brass is better this was a good leson on buying sight unseen or with a pic $-)