richhotrain I don't know what the final Bowser RS-3 will look like, but I can say that my VO-1000 is not identical to the prototype, if that is important to you. Here is a photo of the actual CNW #1040 which can be compared to my CNW #1039. The actual loco had two smokestacks, compared to four smokestacks on my model. The actual loco had side handrails, whereas my model has no side handrails. Those are the two most obvious differences in addition to several lesser differences. Rich
I don't know what the final Bowser RS-3 will look like, but I can say that my VO-1000 is not identical to the prototype, if that is important to you.
Here is a photo of the actual CNW #1040 which can be compared to my CNW #1039. The actual loco had two smokestacks, compared to four smokestacks on my model. The actual loco had side handrails, whereas my model has no side handrails. Those are the two most obvious differences in addition to several lesser differences.
Rich
I am a freelancer so prototype fidelity is not a big issue with me. My fictional railroad interchanges with the Pennsy and I already have several Pennsy locos on the roster. I try not to gather too much knowledge so minor inaccuracies won't bother me.
The consensus seems to be that Bowsers are excellent runners so I am sorely tempted to add this one. I really don't need another Pennsy loco but I have a fondness for the little ALCOs and might add this one. You can never have too many locos.
Alton Junction
richhotrain It is my one and only Bowser locomotive.
I also only have one Bowser locomotive. The exact model escapes me at the moment.
However, it is an excellent runner that I was very happy with.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
I have a pair of their GMDD SD40-2's and they are flawless.
Rick Jesionowski
Rule 1: This is my railroad.
Rule 2: I make the rules.
Rule 3: Illuminating discussion of prototype history, equipment and operating practices is always welcome, but in the event of visitor-perceived anacronisms, detail descrepancies or operating errors, consult RULE 1!
A few years back, I purchased a Bowser Executive Line VO-1000 equipped with a Soundtraxx Tsunami sound decoder. It is very well detailed and a great runner and puller. Bought it from my LHS for $279. It is my one and only Bowser locomotive.
From what I read, the RS-3 will be equipped with a Loksound Select sound decoder.
John,
I've only purchased their older Stewart line of locomotives (FTs, F3s, VO-660 & VO-1000 switchers) and think they are an excellent value; on top of the fact that their drives (Kato, Buehler, or Canon) are 2nd to none. If the RS-3 is part of their "Executive Line" then the detail should be quite good and run VERY smoothly & quietly.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I looked at a pop ad for a soon to be released Bowser RS-3 in Pennsylvania and Western Maryland versions. The MSRP for the Sound/DCC version is $300 which in today's market seems like an excellent price. I know Bowser used to be a maker of kit built locos but now I think they just do RTR. I've never owned one of their locos and wonder what others might think of their quality.
Announced release date is December 17 but if they are like most companies, they won't hit that target, especially if the product is sitting in a cargo ship off the port of Los Angeles.