SP SD40T-2 8385
I built this locomotive around 1990 from the then-new Athearn model.
I installed numerous detail parts, as well as custom painting and weathering.
These days, Athearn and other manufacturers offer accurate ready-to-run SD40T-2 models.
Below: I opened up the fan housings and installed fans made from Athearn semi-truck wheel hubs and styrene-strip blades.
The grills are an etched brass product from Detail Associates. The exhaust stack was also opened up using a Precision Scale part.
I scratch-built the Locotrol remote-control antennae, platforms, and conduits, as well as the raised radio ground plane.
Left: Numerous SP-specific details were added to
the front. The cab windshield was modified into the
distinctive "L" shape used by SP for many years.
A set of SP lights was grafted into the nose. A large
Details West snow plow was added to the pilot.
Right: The rear received a full set of SP lights.
The pilot plate was fabricated from sheet
styrene and NBW castings. Campbell scale
chain was installed on the handrail openings.
I opened up the "tunnel motor" intake grills using Precision Scale etched metal parts. The open cab door is also a Precision Scale part.
Below: My photo of 8385 in the early 1980's in Sparks, NV where I went to college. The long "snoot" nose housed Locotrol remote-control
equipment. The small "R" above the cab number indicates this was a Locotrol "receiver" unit for use as a mid-train helper. The SP maintenance
folks must have been confused, as the loco wears both El Paso and Los Angeles maintenance base markings. By the look of this unit, maybe
they just didn't bother to maintain it at all ?
entire website copyright Gregg Fuhriman
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